Understanding Mini-Splits
A mini-split, also known as a ductless air conditioning system, is a compact HVAC system that can efficiently heat and cool single rooms, small apartments, and other spaces where ductwork isn’t practical or feasible. Like standard heat pump-based systems, a mini-split consists of two primary components: an outdoor compressor/condenser unit and one or more indoor air handlers. They are a versatile and efficient home comfort solution that provides both heating and cooling all in one.

HOW THEY WORK

Instead of creating hot air or cold air, it displaces heat. During the warmer months, a mini-split captures the heat inside your living space, and sends it back outside, while using a compressed refrigerant to then blow cold air in. This cools your living space quickly, while using less energy. In the colder months, a mini-split absorbs the heat in the outside air and sends it inside. Even in the coldest temperatures, a mini-split can still find heat outside and use it to keep you warm, while using a fraction of the energy a traditional boiler or furnace uses (and no fossil fuel).

BENEFITS OF A MINI-SPLIT

Flexibility and Multi-Zone Comfort: They can zone heat or cool specific areas of your home rather than heating or cooling the entire space. Their small size allows you to have as many as four indoor units for four zones or rooms connected to one outdoor unit.

Easy Installation: Since there is no ductwork needed, they can be easily installed in many different places with a small hole in the wall.

Better Quality Air: Mini-splits don’t require ducts to transfer air throughout the home, instead, they use a small conduit that connects the indoor and outdoor units. With a mini-split, you don’t have to worry about the allergens, dust and other debris that live in the ductwork of a home. Also, most ductless air conditioners have a better filtration system than other HVAC systems, ensuring cleaner air throughout your home.  

Understanding Heat Pumps
A heat pump is a type of central climate control system that uses electricity to move heat from one place to another, providing heating and cooling for a building. Understanding how a heat pump works can help you make informed decisions about your HVAC system.

HOW THEY WORK

​In the winter, a heat pump provides heating by extracting heat from outside a building and moving it inside. In the summer, it can provide cooling by moving heat from indoors to the outside. A heat pump uses the same technology as an air conditioner, which cools your home using a refrigerant. The only major difference between an air conditioner and a heat pump is that a heat pump has a reversing valve, which allows it to also heat your home.

BENEFITS OF A HEAT PUMP

Eco-Friendly: Heat pumps excel in moderate climates and provide energy-efficient heating and cooling throughout the year. Heat pumps can operate efficiently during freezing temperatures, although they may be supplemented with a backup heating system to maintain comfort. Additionally, they are a great HVAC option if you’re trying to cut down on your carbon footprint since they use electricity—not gas. 

Cost Savings: Heat pumps generally have lower operating costs compared to traditional heating systems, which can save you money long term. 

Determining the Right Solution for Your Home

FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A MINI-SPLIT OR HEAT PUMP

• Energy Efficiency: Heat pumps are more efficient than mini-splits. They don’t generate hot or cold air but transfer it from one place to another. They use electricity to transfer heat from the outside air to the inside in the winter and vice versa in the summer. This way, they can cool and heat your home with less energy than other systems that burn fuel or use electric resistance.
  According to the S. Department of Energy, central heat pump systems can reduce your electricity use for heating by approximately 50% compared to electric furnaces and baseboard heaters.
  Mini-splits are also energy efficient, but not as much as heat pumps. They use electricity to power an outdoor compressor and an indoor fan that circulates refrigerant through coils. The refrigerant absorbs and releases heat as it changes from liquid to gas. This process allows mini-splits to cool and heat your home without ducts, which can lose up to 30% of energy in a typical home comfort system.

• Climate: Heat pumps are particularly effective in regions with moderate climates, while mini-splits offer reliable performance in both heating and cooling modes, maintaining comfort and efficiency throughout the year. Make sure the model on either system can operate effectively in extreme temperatures. If you live in a region with harsh winters, choose a model with a low-temperature heating capability.
• Budget: Each individual ductless mini-split zone can cost between $4,000-$6,000. So, the more places to heat or cool, the more you’ll pay. A heat pump will likely cost around $15,000. Both systems provide energy savings that can offset the initial investment over time.
• Installation: If you already have ductwork in your home, placing a heat pump might be easier and more convenient than a mini-split by simply replacing your existing system with a heat pump and connecting to the existing ductwork. However, if you don’t have ducts, you may need to install ductwork or a ductless mini-split system might be a better option for you since they don’t require ducts. Due to their ductless design, mini-splits often have lower upfront costs and installation expenses. This design simplifies installation and reduces labor costs. 
• Home Size and Layout: Consider the size and layout of your home. Mini-splits are ideal for zoned heating and cooling in homes with diverse temperature needs. If you have a larger home with multiple rooms that require individual temperature control, a multi-zone mini-split system may be the best option. This can lead to lower electric bills, as you only heat or cool the areas you are using.
• Maintenance: Mini-splits have fewer components, which can lower maintenance costs, reducing long-term operating costs​ overall. Heat pumps usually require more professional maintenance for optimal performance.
• Design Versatility: If you have a large home needing consistent heating and cooling, a heat pump may be best. However, if you have a smaller home or want to customize the temperature of each room, a mini-split may be a better option for you as they use an indoor air handler in each room you want to control.

Choosing the right system for your home can be a daunting task. There are many factors to consider, such as the size of your home, the climate of your area, your budget, and your personal preferences. However, you don’t have to do it alone. Lennox provides many mini-split and heat pump solutions. You can consult your local Lennox Pro to help you find the best solution for your needs.