Sold by itself, a mini-split air handler is ridiculously cheap. Which might be why so many people want to buy them like that. We get questions every day on all our solitary mini-split air handler listings. Stuff like, "Is this the real price?" or "Do I have to cut a hole in the wall?" and "This is all I need, right?"
No, sorry folks, but you've got to get the condenser too!
Mini-Split Air Handler + Mini-Split Condenser = One Complete System
Now, we do get it. A mini-split air handler mounted on a wall doesn't look too dissimilar from an old fashioned window air conditioner. Many Americans know nothing about ductless split systems. They see that wall-mounted unit and think, "Gee, I guess that's all I need!"
Which would be wonderful. Being able to hang a lightweight appliance on an inside wall that would cool your house without having to drill holes or run refrigerant lines would be amazing.
And impossible. You need the outside condenser too!
But Window Units Don't Have an Outside Part!
Yes, they do. There is a reason why you have to have a window air conditioner in a window. That's because half the unit, the part with the compressor and condenser coil, has to be outside the house. Otherwise, the air conditioner couldn't expel the heat or drain out the condensate. If you don't believe me, set a window unit in your living room floor and turn it on. The room stays hot and water gets all over the floor.
Mini-Split Air Handler Benefits
We prefer a mini-split air handler (and condenser) over a traditional window air conditioner. The latter have their place, of course, but ductless units have many, many benefits. Mini-splits are far quieter, much more efficient, and they don't block up a window.
Just remember that a mini-split air handler by itself is just a very nice wall ornament.
Questions or Comments?
Do you still think all you need is a mini-split air handler? Let us know in the comments here, on Facebook, or on Twitter.
