A split system air conditioner includes an outdoor unit with a compressor and condenser, plus an indoor unit that contains an air handler. Typically, there’s a lineset between these two units that houses copper refrigerant tubing, a power cable and a drain for condensation.
Split systems are different from packaged units, which house all components in one single cabinet. They’re also not the same as window units that have a fan, compressor and coils inside a window or wall-mounted box.
Many people prefer split system air conditioners because of these benefits:
An Easier Installation Process
When compared to traditional systems, a split system requires a lot less work to install. Not only is there no ductwork necessary, but the connector between your indoor and outdoor units only requires an opening that measures about 3 inches in diameter. Once that’s done, all that’s required is access to electricity and a location to mount your units. Manufacturers offer different lengths for refrigerant tubes, so your indoor and outdoor unit can be up to 100 feet apart.
Greater Energy Efficiency
Central systems lose a lot of energy through ductwork, and leaky ducts can see a loss of up to 30 percent in cooling energy. When you have uninsulated ductwork or ductwork that’s been installed in unconditioned spaces, this causes energy efficiency problems. Since split systems offer a completely ductless design, this upsurges your energy savings and reduces money spent on future utility bills. In some cases, ductless air conditioners can exceed double the efficiency of a standard air conditioner, achieving above 30 SEER.
They Blend With Your Décor
With a split system air conditioner, indoor installation is highly flexible. You can suspend them from your ceiling or hang them on walls. In addition, many offer elegant and sophisticated jackets that are aesthetically appealing. Moreover, split systems are less obtrusive when compared to window units that require you either cut a hole in a wall or dedicate a window to your air conditioner.
Quiet Operations
An indoor ductless unit can operate as silently as 19 decibels, which is significantly quieter than a window unit. Its ductless condenser is also much slimmer in profile, and makes it easy for you to position them in various locations where noise might be a factor or there isn’t a lot of space.
Increased Security
A split system air conditioner is a lot more security friendly than a window unit, which offers intruders a way into your home. The small hole for your conduit doesn’t pose much threat to your home’s safety, whereas an open hole in your wall or window may target you for an easy break in.
Zoning
Split system air conditioners cool different areas of your home by splitting the space into zones. Each zone will have its own thermostat, unlike traditional AC systems that have one thermostat for your entire space. Separate thermostats give you control over which areas of your home are cooled and allow you to limit the cooling to specific zones. This means you’ll use less energy over the long term while also saving money.
Ductless air conditioners are great for renovations where ducting isn’t feasible, older homes with poor distribution, electrically-heated houses and homes with hydronic heating.
If you’d like to learn more about split system ACs, visit our Mini & Ductless Split Systems Temperature Control Products page. You can also contact us for more information!
