Ductless Mini Split Heating and Cooling Systems

What Is Ductless Mini-Split and How Does It Work?

Conventional central air conditioning systems require ductwork to be installed throughout your home. A ductless mini split installation consists of an outdoor compressor unit and indoor air handlers. Multiple air handlers can be connected to a single condenser, creating zones where the temperature can be independently controlled. These wall units provide cooling or warmth via a heat pump, rather than transporting air through ductwork.

To cool a home, an indoor unit pulls warm air over cooling coils. The air is then blown into rooms or areas served by each unit. Heat is then transferred to the outdoor unit and released into the ambient air. The indoor and outdoor units are linked by communication wiring and refrigeration lines.

• Supplemental Heating: If one room needs more heat or cool air than another, the indoor unit serving that area can be adjusted accordingly. This provides climate control in, for example, a bedroom or warm kitchen.

• Demand Driven: Ductless mini splits can be designed in multi-zone configurations, but aside from the ability to control zones, they use a variable speed DC inverter that adapts the compressor to heating or cooling demand.

• Environmentally Friendly: Mini split systems run solely on electric power, so there are no emissions and no carbon footprint. They can even be powered by solar systems as the power requirements are so low.

Common Issues with Ductless Mini Split Systems

As dependable as they are, ductless mini splits can develop issues. Breakdowns are rare. But it isn’t common, just as with any other AC or heating equipment, to require a ductless mini split repair every now and then. Problems that can occur include:

• Ice Forming on the Outdoor Condenser: The coils will freeze over if air doesn’t flow properly, whether due to a refrigerant leak or clogged air filter.
• Airflow Restrictions: A blockage or equipment problem can restrict airflow, which affects heating or cooling capacity. As with any other HVAC system, this can strain key components.
• Higher Bills: A clogged filter, broken or worn part, or a system near the end of its service life may use more energy, which causes an increase in utility bills.
• Noise: Call a technician if you hear grinding noises; bearings may be worn out, which can overheat the motor. Rattling, hissing, buzzing, and vibrating sounds aren’t normal either and signal that your system requires service.
• Failed Indoor Air Handler: Check the remote batteries to see if they need to be replaced. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, have the unit inspected. Fortunately, each unit operates independently so others in your home will continue to function.