Mini Split Air Conditioner – Your Ultimate Guide
Why a Mini Split Air Conditioner
Installing a centralized air conditioning system to your home or the workplace may take a lot of trouble, not to mention, costs. Budget would have to be allocated for a duct system. The set up is not ideal for all houses as well. Window air conditioners are another option but they also require a substantial amount of labor and maintenance. Fortunately, the mini split air conditioner has been introduced in the market. Also called ductless air conditioners, mini splits are easier to install, light, and flexible without compromising air conditioning efficiency.
A mini split air conditioner is the best solution for houses not built for installing ducts or rooms and spaces that cannot be accommodated by an existing duct system. Basically, all the advantages of both centralized AC system and window air conditioners are taken and incorporated into the mini split air conditioner.
Parts
Mini splits are made of two major parts – the outdoor compressor/condenser and the indoor air-handling unit/s. The two is connected by a conduit, which houses the refrigerant tubing, the suction tubing, the condensate drain, and the power cable. The conduit could come in varying lengths to allow users to install the compressor of the mini split air conditioner somewhere far from the indoor handling units. The strategic positioning of the compressor reduces unwelcome regurgitating noises coming from your AC unit.
Compared to window air conditioners, a mini split air conditioner is quick and easy to install. The compressor can be placed on the exterior walls or even the roof of a building. As long as it is placed in a protected position, the device will work just fine. It is no longer necessary to bore a huge hole into your wall. All you need is a hole of about three inches in diameter for the connecting conduit to pass through. Mini split air conditioner buyers can ask manufacturers to provide conduits of any specific length as they need. The conduit can connect three or four internal handling unites to one outdoor compressor.
On the other hand, the indoor air-handling unit/s comes with evaporators. With a remote control, the units placed in different zones can each be programmed to meet the specific air conditioning needs of the zone it covers. Unit models are usually designed to look modern and compact so that they complement the interiors of your house or workplace. The indoor unit/s of a mini split air conditioner can be mounted on walls or the ceiling of the space to be air conditioned.
Things to Remember
A mini split air conditioner can be quite expensive but it will save you a lot of trouble and money in the long-term. If installed properly, it will help save energy as compared to a centralized AC system. Plus, mini splits do not come with the noise window air conditioners are known for.
Start installing a mini split air conditioner by first cutting a hole through your wall. It is better to set the unit a little off-level so the drain condensates much easier. Take special care in plugging the unit – see to it that the cord reaches the plug point. Double check if the model you bought is 120- or 240-volt operated to avoid overloading.