Photo of an Island Comfort technician looking at a mini-split AC on the wall

Choosing the right place for your air conditioner is essential to optimize efficiency. Wall-mounted indoor air handlers require strategic placement for maximum comfort and aesthetics. Outdoor condenser units must be accessible with sufficient airflow. Selecting the ideal location for these components requires answering a few simple questions.

Which rooms do you spend the majority of your time in? Please consider how much space you have, how much noise the mini-split makes, how far away it needs to be from windows and doors, and where you want your vents to go.

When you choose a professional mini-split installation company like Island Comfort, your technician will guide you through selecting the proper location for your home. But before we get into mini-split placement, let’s answer a few important questions.

What is a Mini Split?

A mini-split is a type of air conditioner designed to cool specific rooms. These are individual wall-mounted units that can be turned on or off as needed. They are an excellent option for cooling a bedroom, living room, office, or garage.

Mini-split units are an efficient way to heat and cool your living space. They can conserve money on energy bills by reducing the need for an extensive central air system.

How Do Mini-Splits Work?

Ductless mini-split systems have two main parts: an outdoor unit and an indoor air handler connecting via a refrigerant line set. This line carries the coolant from the mini-split outdoor unit to the indoor unit, where it’s heated or cooled before being blown into the room through vents or ducts.

You can also install a reverse-cycle mini split system, which uses refrigerated air to heat and cool your home, rather than using it all in one place.

The Benefits of Mini-Split AC Units

There are many benefits of ductless mini-splits. Here are a few key highlights:

  • Mini-splits maintain a constant temperature in any room.
  • Mini-split installation is typically quick and easy.
  • Mini-splits are generally more energy efficient than traditional heating and cooling systems.
  • Mini-split units both heat and cool your home.
  • Mini-splits remove excess indoor humidity when in cooling mode.
  • Mini-split AC units allow for individually-zoned comfort.

Mini Split Placement Considerations

A mini split installation is a cost-effective way to cool or heat a room or home. Installing a mini-split is relatively easy, but homeowners must consider some key details.

Mini-split placement in each room can impact how well it functions, and it’s essential to have enough space for the unit. Mini-splits should be placed away from doors and windows to protect against airflow interference with the unit.

The essential factor to consider is which rooms you use the most. If a home addition isn’t connected to your existing AC system, this space may be a good candidate for a mini-split.

Below are some important tips to keep in mind when deciding the best location for a mini-split:

Accessibility

Both indoor and outdoor components must be accessible to allow for routine maintenance, including regularly changing air filters. Mini-split outdoor unit placement should allow for plenty of clearance from landscaping and other potential obstructions. In some instances, installing a condenser on an exterior wall or rooftop may be the best option.

Symmetry

One aspect of mini-splits that some homeowners don’t like is their visibility. But when energy efficiency and comfort outweigh appearance and having a unit on the wall makes sense, it’s crucial to maintain symmetrical placement. Mounting brackets should be centered within a window frame (if installed above a window) or in a location that allows for a balanced home design.

Airflow

To avoid blocking good air distribution in a room, make sure your mini-split unit isn’t installed in a location near large furniture, doors, or other design features that may inhibit consistent airflow. Depending upon your ceiling height, most technicians recommend placement at least eight to ten feet above the floor.

Mini Split Air Conditioning vs. A Central Unit

Comparing a mini-split AC system versus a central AC unit can bring up much confusion. A central air conditioning system is generally less expensive to install but more costly to run. When considering whether it’s cheaper to buy a central AC or a split system, the answer depends on a few things—including the square footage of your home and what you’re willing to pay for your AC.

For a thorough comparison of cost and function, ask your Island Comfort HVAC technician to help you identify which air conditioning system is best for your home.

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