What exactly is a mini-split?

A mini-split is a system that provides both heating and cooling to an indoor space. Like a central air conditioner, they are comprised of two main components: the condenser and the evaporator.

The condenser is located somewhere outside your home, exactly like a traditional air conditioner. And just like a traditional AC, this is where the compressor lives and where excess heat is expelled.

The evaporator is also known as a “head.” This is a rectangular unit that is mounted on the wall inside your home. This means it does not require ductwork. The head of a mini-split is essentially an air handler and works just the same. They are mounted near the ceiling to provide the maximum amount of air circulation. The head blows cool air or warm air into the room, depending on what setting you are using.

Mini-split systems can have one head or several. Multiple heads can be attached to one outdoor condenser and each indoor head can be set to its own, individual temperature using a battery-operated remote, essentially creating zoning in your home or building.

How long do mini-splits last?

On average, a mini-split system will last around 15 years. Just like all other HVAC equipment, it is important to perform regular maintenance to increase the longevity of your system.

Are they loud?

Not at all! In fact, mini-splits are one of the quietest options on the market. The average mini-split emits around 32 decibels while in operation. The average window air conditioner comes in at 56 decibels and a box fan is between 55-65 decibels.

What kind of maintenance is needed?

There are filters inside the indoor heads that need to be cleaned every 4-6 weeks. These are easily accessible by opening a simple compartment and are cleaned either with a vacuum or by rinsing them under clean water. Check the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific model.

Dust or wipe down the indoor head periodically to remove any dirt that has built up.

During the summer, check the outdoor condenser for any build up of grass clippings, cottonwood seed, leaves or other debris. If the condenser is dirty, use a garden hose to wash the debris out. It’s that easy!

As with any HVAC system, we recommend an annual tune up to service your equipment and keep it running as efficiently as possible.

What situations are best for mini-splits?

Mini-splits are advantageous for any situation that needs a little more temperature control in certain spaces. This could be a situation where you have a room or rooms in your home that you just can’t keep warm or cold with your existing HVAC system, or it could be that people in your home simply have different temperature preferences.

Because mini-splits are ductless, if you have a boiler system and want to add AC to your home, a mini-split is often the perfect solution. They are more efficient than window units and less costly than converting to central air.

Some typical situations that we see new mini-split installations:

• Primary bedrooms
• Home office spaces
• Additions
• Four-season rooms
• Homes with boiler heat
• Garage workspaces

How exactly does a mini-split work?

You’ve probably heard us talk about heat pumps before. A heat pump is just what it sounds like. It is a system capable of providing your home with both heat and cooling. It does this by transferring heat from one area to another.

In the summer, the heat pump transfers warm air from inside to outside. In the winter, it works in the opposite way. Even in cold temperatures, the heat pump is capable of finding heat outside and transferring that heat energy through the system to provide heat indoors.

Even when it’s freezing cold outside, there is still heat energy in the air—in fact, there is heat energy in the air until absolute zero, or -459.67°F Air source heat pumps are most efficient at heating when outside temperatures are 20°F or higher, but can work in temperatures as low as 0°F. Because heat pumps are so efficient at capturing heat and delivering it to your home, they are an effective year-round heating and cooling solution in our climate!

Because of this ability to transfer existing heat, mini-splits are often a more energy efficient and cost effective way to heat and cool areas of your home. When paired with an existing HVAC system, they can take some of the load off and ultimately lower your energy bills in the long run.

What are the disadvantages of mini-splits?

With all HVAC options, there are advantages and disadvantages. Mini-splits are made to heat and cool localized areas. Even with multiple heads, they can have a tough time regulating the temperature of an entire home unless combined with another HVAC system. The cost of installing multiple mini-splits can also add up—but luckily, the installation cost can typically be offset by lower operating costs over time.

Do mini-splits qualify for the Mass Save® program?

The short answer is YES!

Mini-splits are energy-efficient upgrades and thus, qualify for the heat pump rebate if the equipment meets the Mass Save® requirements. Navigating the Mass Save® incentives and rebates on your own can be intimidating.That’s why we’re proud to offer you all the benefits of our partnership with Mass Save®. Beantown Home Services can:

• Guide you through the entire process, from paperwork, to energy audit, financing, and install.
• Get your system upgrades designed, approved, and installed far faster than homeowners who work with Mass Save® on their own.
• Make sure you qualify for all possible rebates and incentives.
• Help you decide if a HEAT Loan is right for you.
• Bring you the Beantown Advantage Instant Rebate—so there’s zero wait time for your rebates!

Learn more about our partnership with Mass Save®.