Is a Mini-Split Heat Pump Right For You? By Mike Holmes
Is a Mini-Split Heat Pump Right For You?
By Mike Holmes
A mini-split is a type of heat pump. It doesn’t require any ductwork and is a stand-alone system. Mini-splits are a great option for you if you cannot easily hook into an existing HVAC system. Their compact size and ductless design make them ideal for retrofitting older buildings or for room additions where traditional ductwork may not be feasible.
If you watched Holmes on Homes, you would have seen us install mini-split heat pumps on several projects. One outdoor unit can service several indoor units, also providing customized temperature control in the different zones.
Keeps your Spaces Comfortable
A mini-split is a great way to control the temperature in a single room. This type of heat pump works independently from other heating and cooling systems. You may consider installing a single zone mini-split to keep your top-floor space comfortable all year or just perfect for a short time when it is being used.
Does a Mini-Split Heat Pump Cool A Home?
A mini-split heat pump works to heat and cool a home. You can add them easily into sunrooms, additions, multi-unit dwellings or multi-floored homes.
No Ductwork Needed
Mini-splits don’t require any ductwork, making it an easy install. This means you don’t need to worry about energy losses that come with central forced-air systems’ ductwork. More than 30% of the energy used for space conditioning can be attributed to duct losses, mainly if the ducts are in an unconditioned area like an attic or basement.
What Size Mini-Split Do I Need?
One of the most frequently installed sizes is a 12,000 BTU mini-split. This will heat and cool an estimated 450–550 square feet, or about the size of a studio apartment or a mudroom that we upgraded in a recent show.
To determine if a mini-split heat pump is right for you, several factors need to be taken into consideration. You have to look at the size of your home, heating and cooling loads, age of the home, insulation etc. It’s best to consult with an HVAC professional to find the best option for your home.
Is A Mini-Split Right For Me?
Here are some scenarios where a mini-split heat pump would be ideal:
- Older homes that do not have any ductwork
- Additions or outbuildings where extending ductwork is not feasible (e.g. workshop, garage etc.)
- Retrofits in homes with costly electric heat and cooling (e.g. baseboard; electric radiant, furnace)
- Homes with expensive central heating due to high fuel costs
- You have rooms that are not regularly occupied
- Spaces next to unconditioned spaces where ductwork would be exposed (e.g. above a garage)
About Mike Holmes: Mike Holmes is a respected contractor and television personality who is dedicated to providing homeowners with practical advice and solutions for building and maintaining safe, high-quality homes. Known for his TV shows like Holmes on Homes and Holmes Makes It Right, Mike’s expertise spans various aspects of home construction and renovation. A key area of his focus is HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems, as he understands the critical role they play in creating comfortable, energy-efficient, and healthy living environments.
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