You’ve probably seen the commercials: a sleek, energy-efficient mini split heat pump that can be installed in just about any room and provides both heating and cooling. Central air conditioners have been the standard for years, but are they really more efficient than mini splits? Let’s find out.
What’s a Mini Split and How Does It Work?
A mini split is a type of heat pump that doesn’t require ductwork. Instead, refrigerant lines are run from an outdoor unit to one or more indoor units. These indoor units are connected to the outdoor unit through those refrigerant lines and deliver cooled or heated air directly into a room.
Mini splits are very efficient. The main reason for their efficiency is that they don’t lose any energy through ductwork as central systems do. Ductwork can have leaks that allow conditioned air to escape before it ever reaches its destination.
Additionally, they allow you to control the temperature in each individual room. So, if you’re only using the air conditioner in one room, you’re not wasting energy cooling the entire house.
How Does the Efficiency of Mini Splits Compare to Central Air?
The efficiency of a mini split heat pump is measured by its Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the system.
Most central air conditioners have a SEER rating of around 13, which is pretty good. But many mini split systems have a SEER rating of 20 or higher. So, if you’re looking for an air conditioner that’s going to be as efficient as possible, a mini split is the way to go.
Another thing to keep in mind is that central air conditioners have to work harder than mini splits. That’s because they have to cool the entire house, even if you’re only using the air conditioner in one room. So, even though they have a lower SEER rating, they still use more energy than mini splits.
If you’re searching for a trusted HVAC service provider to help you determine which is right for you, look no further than Total Comfort Solutions Heating and Cooling. We offer top-quality heating, cooling, indoor air quality, and duct cleaning services to meet all of your HVAC needs in the Kennesaw, GA area. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
