Which Rooms Would a Mini Split Work Best In?

If you’ve ever owned a traditional HVAC system, you’re probably familiar with the type of work and space needed for them. Classic HVAC systems are usually comprised of intricate ductwork that takes time and money to install. And once you have it, it takes a lot of effort to maintain your ductwork. You must keep it clean and free of debris in order to allow your air to flow freely throughout your home. But airflow can also be restricted when ductwork is old, worn, or poorly installed.

Although ductwork was once considered the gold standard of HVAC systems, its glory days are getting numbered. Ductless HVAC systems, otherwise known as mini split systems, are trending in some homes across the United States. Homeowners and businesses laud them for their efficiency and ease of installation. They operate using a conduit that connects the indoor and outdoor units. The efficiency of a mini split system depends mainly on space and location.

How Do Mini Split Systems Work?

Mini split systems work by moving heating and cooling around. These systems require no ductwork and are deemed much more efficient than traditional HVAC methods. Because they don’t work with air ducts, mini splits need a smaller room size in order to operate effectively.

Mini split systems are comprised of two main parts: the outdoor unit and the indoor air handler. Both parts are connected by the refrigerant line set, which is where the coolant travels from the outdoor unit to the indoor unit. The air is blown through a vent to keep your room at a good temperature.

Which Rooms Are Ideal for Mini Split Systems?

There are certain areas or rooms that are more ideal for mini split systems. There are some considerations to ponder before making a decision. First, you want to install your unit in an area away from doors and windows. This reduces airflow interference and maximizes efficiency. Another tip is to think about the rooms you use the most. Some examples include bedrooms, living rooms, home offices, basements, attics, and home gyms. You can control the climate in each of these rooms without affecting the rest of your home.

Bedroom

Comfort is ideal for achieving eight hours of quality sleep every night. But you can only do so when temperatures are ideal and airflow is consistent. Therefore, a bedroom is an excellent place for a mini split system. Cooler temperatures during summer promote and support better sleep as does warmth during colder weather. If you have children or an elderly relative living with you, consider having a ductless mini split unit installed in their room. Age makes a huge difference in a person’s ability to withstand changes in temperature, and both young children and the elderly are susceptible to being very sensitive to hot and cold conditions.

Basement

Because it’s located below the ground, your basement is an ideal location for a ductless mini split system. You can use the system to moderate temperatures regardless of outside conditions. Your basement is made of concrete, which makes it much colder during the winter months. Concrete also impacts heat and can cause temperatures to rise exponentially during summer. Poor insulation can add fuel to the fire because it creates irregularities in the climate. Plus, your basement is a prime breeding ground for mold and mildew because of limited lighting and moisture. Because of its efficient airflow, a ductless mini split system is good for decreasing humidity and reducing moisture.

Attic

Attics are making headway as extra living spaces in most homes. Unfortunately, they face the same issues of temperature imbalance that basements do. Heat rises upward, causing the attic to become very hot during summer. But the flipside is that attics are very drafty and can get exceedingly cold during the winter. Therefore, a mini split system is the best solution to moderating temperatures. Plus, the attic is a very small space and is ideal for ductless systems.

Living Room

The living room is the epicenter of your home. This makes the living room an ideal place to install a mini split system for good temperature control.

Temperatures rise in places where people gather in groups. This is due to our natural body heat, which transfers from one person to the next. A ductless mini split system will help resolve this by providing enough cooling to keep you and your guests comfortable. The trick is to find a unit that blends in well with the decor and color of your living room.

Home Office

These days, more people are opting for remote work. And if you’re a part of that revolution, you may want to look into having a ductless mini split system installed. It’s great for maximizing your productivity because it provides optimal comfort during work hours. It also protects your computer and electronic devices from any harm caused by temperature changes. Everything will be safe from the impact of humidity, mold, and mildew.

Garages

A garage is more than just a storage space for your vehicles and tools. It is also another place for you to relax and host gatherings with friends. You can use the space to work on specific home projects like oil changes or minor car repairs. So, why not go the extra mile and install a ductless mini split system?

Garages are similar to basements in that they are made of a lot of concrete, which can set your indoor temperature off. A mini split system can moderate temperatures in your garage. Most garages lack adequate insulation, which means that they can get much colder during the winter. Holes and door gaps can exaggerate the problem by causing hot or cool air to escape. You could improve your unit’s efficiency by having a little insulation added.

Sheds

A shed is where you might store things of value, such as gas-powered lawn mowers and weed trimmers. You may even use it as a place to do specific home projects, much like your garage. Either way, you should consider having a ductless mini split system installed for your comfort. It can also help protect your valuables from mold, mildew, and humidity.

Home Gym

Working out is healthy, fun, and productive. However, you can perspire during a long, hard workout. The best solution to combating the heat is to install a mini split system because it provides maximum airflow and optimal temperature control.

Even the lowest-intensity workout will raise your oxygen intake and increase your heart rate. At the same time, your body heat increases, which makes it harder to stay cool. It’s important to keep cool air blowing in your home gym, even during the winter. A ductless mini split system is an excellent unit because it keeps cool air flowing without impacting the rest of your home.

Call the Pros

At Sheldon's Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we understand the impact of weather on your home. Our team offers HVAC installation, repair, and maintenance. We’ll inspect your unit and fix it as needed. Our goal is your comfort, and we’ll help you choose the system that’s right for you. Sheldon's Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing serves Riverside, CA and other surrounding areas. Call us to learn more.