You know ductless air comfort and energy efficiency sounds great. What you don't know is where to install a mini-split heat pump in your home. While these units can provide pinpoint air comfort at a fraction of the cost of a larger system, the best spot for maximum performance might not be 100% obvious.
Don't worry, we can help with that.
First
Let's start with essential location requirements.
First, you are going to want to choose a location on an exterior wall. The inside air handler must be connected to the outside condenser via refrigerant lines. If you don't have to run the lines through an attic or crawlspace, installation is much, much easier. You'll also need a way to drain the condensate. This is much harder to accommodate on an interior wall.
Second, a typical HVAC manufacturer would recommend you install a ductless unit approximately 90 inches from the floor and 6 inches from the ceiling with at least 5 inches of clearance on the sides. This will ensure there is sufficient air flow around the air handler for proper operation. Similarly to the air handler, make sure the condenser has approximately 80 inches of front clearance, 12 inches on the back, 24 inches on the right, 12 inches on the left, and 24 inches above.
Which is all well and good, but it still doesn't tell you where to install a mini-split heat pump. Should you put it in the family room? An entryway? At the end of a hall?
The Garage
Many people use their garage for more than storing the car. Likewise, most are never connected to the central heating and air system. A ductless mini-split can let you use your garage to its full potential all summer long. Plus, installation will cost much less than expanding your existing ductwork.
The Basement
Many homes are built with unfinished basement or attic spaces that are later furbished for regular use. As with a garage, it can sometimes be inconvenient or too costly to expand the central heating and air system to these locations. Fortunately, a ductless mini-split can go just about anywhere and provide great air comfort in even tough to reach spaces.
The Kitchen
Chances are your central heating and air system already blows conditioned air into your kitchen. Unfortunately, that might not prevent uncomfortable warmth when you have the oven and the stove going. In the holidays, a poorly serviced kitchen can get really hot indeed. Putting in a ductless mini-split is a cost-effective way to keep your kitchen cool without being forced to drop the temperature everywhere else too.
The Wherever You Want
Ductless tech is both powerful and efficient. However, it's best job is versatility, so don't stress about where to install a mini-split heat pump. If you have a tough heating and cooling job, a mini-split heat pump can do it and at a fraction of the price of a full-sized HVAC unit.
Where might you use one? Let us know in the comments!