What You Need to Know About Mini Split Heat Pump Installation

Mini split heat pumps are becoming more and more popular among homeowners for optimal indoor comfort. Although these appliances are growing in popularity, installation is still a big question mark for some contractors and professionals. Like any appliance, the more you know about mini split heat pumps, the better your installation job will turn out. Here are a few things you should keep in mind when installing a mini split heat pump in your home.

Advantages of Installing a Mini Split Heat Pump

There are many advantages to installing a mini split heat pump in your home. The small size and flexibility of the pumps make it easy for heating and cooling individual rooms. Some mini splits can have as many as four indoor units connected to one outside unit. Even more, mini splits are easier to install than other types of similar appliances and are more energy efficient, so you can save money on installation and energy costs. Mini splits also offer more options for interior design. These indoor units can be wall-mounted, hung from the ceiling or mounted into a drop ceiling and are also available as floor standing models. This variety of options makes it possible for you to own and enjoy a mini split heat pump in any type of home.

The Right Size and Location

The first step in installing a mini split in your home is deciding on the right size unit. Determining the size of the unit is mainly based on the local climate. After choosing the right size, you want to then figure out the best place in your home to have the mini split installed. For the outdoor unit, it is best not to install it in an area where it will be exposed to severe weather or where it can suck up debris and other materials, such as leaves. For the indoor unit, wall-mounted mini splits are designed to be a minimum of six feet above the floor. It is also important not to put any other objects within 15 to 20 feet of the mini split so as to not constrict air flow.

Know the Unit Capacity

Probably the most important step of installing a mini split is knowing the exact unit capacity. If a the wrong sized unit is installed in a wrong sized room, this could result in the heat pump having to work in short cycles and not function properly. To get the best and most out of your mini split heat pump, it is vital to ensure the right unit capacity. Here is a list of estimate comparable unit and room sizes to keep in mind:

• For commercial settings, 400 square feet per 12,000 BTUh
• For telephone servers and computer rooms, 250 square feet per 12,000 BTUh. Note: Computer rooms normally work year round, so the unit will still produce the same amount of BTUh capacity even in the winter
• For homes and residential settings, 600 square feet per 12,000 BTUh

If you are interested in installing a mini split heat pump in your home, find out how ServiceWhale can help you find the best contractors for the best prices near you.