It's becoming more common for Bostonians (and other residents of Massachusetts) to choose a ductless mini-split heat pump system for heating and cooling. There are many reasons to make the swap – such as quieter operation, more comfortable living, less expensive utility bills, and greater energy efficiency.
However, anyone considering a mini-split heat pump will have a few questions. One of them is whether you need to include a mini-split in every room of the house. We'll give you some insight into that so you can make the right decision for your home.
The Difference Between Central and Ductless Systems
While there are several differences between central heating and ductless heat pumps, they also have some things in common. While a mini-split does not need ductwork, it does include one or more outdoor units and one or more indoor units, just like central air systems.
However, the indoor portion will typically be mounted on a wall or hung from a ceiling. The outdoor section will sit outside a few inches to a foot from the ground. This is similar to central air, but the unit is often a bit smaller. In addition, refrigerant lines and drainage pipes move between indoor and outdoor units but take up no space.
Understanding Mini-Split Zones
You've likely heard of zones if you've been researching ductless mini-splits. This means an indoor air handler unit controls a particular area of the house. Most of the time, a zone will be composed of a single room. You can choose a single or multi-zone mini-split system depending on your needs.
You'll have one outdoor condenser and one indoor air handler with a single zone option. This is enough for a zone or room. For home additions and apartments, this might be reasonable.
However, a multi-zone system will often be the better choice for larger homes. All the indoor units connect to the outside compressor, and each keeps one zone at a specific temperature.
How Many Air Handlers Do You Need?
When choosing a ductless mini-split heat pump for cooling and heating, you need an air handler for each zone or room where you want to control the temperature. Someone who needs to heat only a garage or an add-on bedroom will need a single-zone system. Those who wish to heat or cool several rooms will need additional air handlers to keep each room comfortable.
How many mini-splits you need indoors also depends on how much power the unit provides. When you work with a professional HVAC company, they can give you information about how large of a space the different air handlers can cover. Many range from about 350 to 1,500 square feet, so there is a lot of flexibility.
Move Forward With a Ductless Cooling Specialist
If you're ready to install a ductless mini-split heat pump, work with professionals in the Boston area. This ensures the project is completed quickly and is sufficient for your needs. Experts can determine zoning and size requirements so you can be sure to stay cool all summer long.
Read more about Efficient Ways to Cool a Home in the Summer with a Ductless Mini-Split and How to Obtain a Mass Save HEAT Loan for Heat Pump Installation