Where Should Your Mini-Split System Be Installed?
Ductless mini split heating and cooling systems utilize air handling units installed directly within the interior spaces they serve. For optimal comfort, it’s important to know the best places to put a mini split system. Ductless mini-split systems are constantly praised for their efficiency, low operating costs, and ability to both heat and cool your home. Of course, professional mini split placement and installation will maximize the performance of your investment. That’s why we recommend contacting your local expert. An experienced HVAC technician will recommend properly sized equipment and mini split placement that work best for your home.
Indoor Unit Placement
This is the main item that people are concerned about, since it’s the part that’s capable of clashing with your interior designs. Here are the basic requirements for an indoor unit’s placement:
Must Be Installed on Exterior Walls Only: An exterior wall is any wall in the home that makes direct contact with the outdoors. For example, an interior wall would be a wall in a bedroom that shares a wall with the hallway. An exterior wall is one that shares a wall with the backyard.
Equal Air Distribution: The handler must be placed in a spot that will ensure air is distributed equally through the room. The recommended placement is at least seven feet above the ground, but as close to the ceiling as allowed. This will vary depending on each brand, so your best bet is to follow the recommendations of a ductless air conditioning expert.
Bedrooms: Units in bedrooms should be placed above the bed. If the idea of a giant air handler above your head doesn’t make you feel comfortable, the next best placement would be on the wall across from your feet.
Out of Direct Sunlight: Sunlight can cause the handler to misinterpret the temperature of the room, so you won’t want to place it in a spot that receives sunlight for any time of the day.
Away From Objects: It might be impossible to keep it away from some furniture, but an effort should be made to keep it away from electronic devices like TVs, computers, or heat sources. These devices can affect the temperature reading of the handler.
Outdoor Unit Placement
The best places to put a mini split system air conditioner or heat pump offer protection and efficiency:
Distance: While outdoor units are able to be placed 100 or more feet from air handlers, the further away they are, the longer refrigerant must travel, which reduces energy efficiency. The closer to the home, the more efficient the system.
Space: We want the outdoor unit to be in an area open enough to facilitate free air movement, but also protected. A concrete pad may be poured to get the unit off the ground to lessen the risk of buildup blocking airflow. Under an awning provides protection for the unit as well as shade which helps the unit perform efficiently.
