Is a Mini-Split System Right for Me?
Learn everything you need to know about a mini-split system for heating and cooling your home to help you decide if it’s a solution that’s right for you.
By Anne Fonda
We’ll start by answering the question “What is a mini-split?” A ductless HVAC system, also known as a ductless mini-split or mini-split system, or single-zone ductless is a heating and cooling system that works without the ductwork you would find in a traditional split system.
Understanding Mini-Split HVAC Systems
A mini-split HVAC system distributes air differently than a traditional split system with an outdoor air conditioning unit and an indoor furnace. The components are connected via ductwork, The traditional system distributes heated or cool air through that ductwork system out into rooms through a series of vents.
With a mini-split, you still have an outdoor unit (mini-split heat pump), and one indoor unit connected via refrigerant lines. But they do not distribute the heated or cool air through ductwork. The indoor unit is wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted and distributes air directly into the space. You can adjust the temperature with a remote control for ease of use and maximum energy efficiency.
Ideal Locations for a Mini-Split System
Part of answering the question “Is a mini-split right for my home?” is determining if you have existing ductwork in the space you want to heat and cool. If you don’t have ductwork, a ductless mini-split system could be the ideal comfort solution.
Examples of spaces where a mini-split system can be ideal include:
- Home addition
- Enclosed porch
- Sunroom
- Lake or woods cabin
- Attached or detached garage
- Workshop
- Home office
- Attic converted into living space
- Older home with no ductwork
Suppose the area already has a heating system such as baseboard heating, but longer and warmer summers mean you need energy-efficient cooling. In that case, a cooling-only mini split air conditioner might be a good solution. A mini-split AC unit can provide more cost-effective cooling than a window unit.
Advantages of Trane/Mitsubishi Mini-Split Heating and Cooling
If you’re looking for a heating and cooling solution for a space that doesn’t have ductwork, a heat pump mini-split system has a lot to offer.
Energy Efficiency
Trane/Mitsubishi mini-split heat pump units are by far more energy-efficient than window units, and can even be more efficient than some single-stage AC units. This is because the INVERTER, the heart of a mini-split heating and cooling system, automatically adjusts the temperature when it senses even subtle changes.
The ductless mini-split system heats and cools faster and more efficiently than single-stage systems, which can run constantly, shut off, and then start again as the temperature changes. The mini-split system can help reduce your energy consumption by more than 40%.
Quiet Operation
These ductless system indoor units are whisper-quiet - much quieter than a window AC unit or outdoor AC unit. And you won’t hear the rattling or expansion of ductwork during heating and cooling as you might with a traditional system. In addition, the outdoor mini-split heat pumps operate as low as 46 decibels - about the level of a typical conversation.
Advanced Filtration
In addition, our mini-splits are equipped with an advanced air filtration system to help you breathe easier. These filters are washable and can last up to 10 years.
Zoning Capabilities
Last but not least, the zoning capabilities of a multi-split ductless system make it a viable solution for heating and cooling your entire home. If you need to heat and cool just one space, you would want a single-zone ductless system that has just one indoor unit connected to the mini-split heat pump.
But if you have several rooms you need to heat and cool, such as a cabin or home that lacks ductwork, you can opt for a multi-zone ductless system. A multi-zone/multi-split system can connect up to 5 units to one outdoor mini-split heat pump. Using branch boxes, you can heat and cool up to 8 zones.
You control each zoned unit by remote control, or your phone with an app and you can set different temperatures for each room. You get room-by-room control and comfort. A multi-split system can also be up to 40% more efficient than a traditional HVAC system.
Cost and Efficiency of Mini-Split Systems
The final installed mini-split cost will depend on several factors including:
- Whether you get a single-zone system or a multi-zone system
- The specific ductless system you choose
- The complexity and difficulty of the installation
- Whether the system qualified for Federal tax rebates and other savings offers
Due to the superior energy efficiency of these systems, if you’ve been using a window AC unit to cool and a space heater to heat, you may see a near-immediate reduction in your energy bills. Those savings will continue for the long term, helping you see a return on your investment.
And, if you ever decide to sell your home, the extra conditioned space could increase the value of your home at the time of resale.
Mini-Split System Installation and Maintenance
To ensure optimal efficiency and longevity of a ductless mini-split system, work with a licensed and experienced HVAC contractor near you. Be sure to look for a company that has installed many of these systems in various locations.
Like any HVAC system, if you want to keep your ductless system running at peak performance, you should schedule spring and fall HVAC maintenance with a local HVAC company. In addition, mini-splits have reusable, washable filters. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for removing and washing the filters, and ensure they are dry before replacing them.
Refer to your owner’s manual for common mini-split troubleshooting solutions.
Why Choose Trane/Mitsubishi for Your Mini Split System
For the tenth year in a row, Trane won the America’s Most Trusted® HVAC Brand award from Lifestory Research. We have built a reputation for providing innovative heating and cooling solutions that utilize cutting-edge technology.
Our mini-split systems offer superior energy efficiency to help you lower your energy bills while maintaining comfort. We have a unique partnership with Mitsubishi Electric, where each Trane Mitsubishi mini-split is made by Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US (METUS). Trane®/Mitsubishi mini-split systems are the top-selling brand of zoned air conditioning and heating systems.
Finally, Trane dealers offer superior customer support and mini-split systems have comprehensive warranties available.
Browse our ductless systems to find the one that’s right for you. In addition, check out the product line brochure for more complete information on the features and capabilities of these innovative systems.
Contact Your Local Comfort Specialist
Still not sure if a mini-split system is right for your space? Or undecided about which system is best? Your local Trane Comfort Specialist can help you make an informed decision by offering a customized evaluation of your heating and cooling needs and following up with personalized product recommendations. This includes giving you information on financing and which systems are eligible for federal tax credits/ rebates.
Anne Fonda, Content Writer
A Content Writer with Trane Technologies, Anne Fonda researches topics and writes for Trane® and associated residential HVAC brands. She works in collaboration with Trane Technologies subject matter experts, offering easy-to-understand, informative content on complex topics. Her goal is to help consumers make informed decisions on the products and services they need.
She has written for HVAC and other service provider websites for over 16 years. Before transitioning to web content writing, Anne had a 14-year stint as an award-winning journalist. She graduated cum laude from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Journalism.
When she’s not working, Anne enjoys playing word games, reading, gardening, spending time with family, and visiting gardens and museums.
Expert review by Ryan Goodwin, Senior Product Manager, Ductless Systems
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