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How Does a Multi-Split System Work?

Ductless mini-split in living room with a large white couch

Homeowners in Charlottesville are always looking for ways to improve their home’s comfort and energy efficiency. That’s why many opt for ductless mini-splits to provide superior zone heating and cooling throughout their home.

From their unmatched energy efficiency to their customizable comfort, multi-split systems are an excellent choice to maintain an ideal temperature in your home year-round.

In this article, the HVAC experts at Albemarle Heating, Air & Plumbing discuss how a multi-split system works and the benefits of these traditional HVAC alternatives.

What is a Multi-Split System?

A ductless mini-split system uses a single outdoor unit and multiple indoor air handlers to provide personalized comfort throughout your home.

It does not require your home to have existing ductwork and provides the dual power of heating and cooling through thermal transfer.

During this process, the system moves heat into or out of your home to maintain the ideal temperature.

Key Components of a Multi-Split HVAC

A multi-split HVAC system is made of a few key components:

  • Indoor air handlers: These devices draw air from the room they are in, cool or heat it, and then circulate it back into the space.
  • Outdoor compressor: The outdoor compressor releases or collects heat from the system’s refrigerant and moves it throughout the system.
  • Refrigerant lines: The system’s refrigerant lines transfer refrigerant between the indoor and outdoor units.
  • Condensate drain line: This drain carries away any moisture removed from the air during the cooling function.  
  • Thermostat: You’ll have a thermostat for each air handler so you can adjust the temperature for each zone of your home. 

Multi-Split vs. Single-Split HVAC

A single-split HVAC unit operates like a multi-split system but only has a single indoor unit connected to the outdoor unit.

For this reason, single-split systems do not offer zone control. Instead, they’re often used for single rooms or small areas like additions, garages, and more.

Benefits of Multi-Split HVAC Systems

There are many excellent benefits that multi-split HVAC systems can provide:

  • Zone control: With zone control, you can add cooling to rooms that face the sun or adjust the temperature of different rooms to match the preferences of family members.
  • Energy efficiency: Because these systems don’t use ductwork, they are highly energy-efficient and experience no energy loss.
  • Easy installation: If your older home isn’t compatible with ductwork, this option allows for a simple installation.
  • Quiet operation: Ductless systems are quieter than window units or central air conditioners.
  • Dual power: Mini-splits can offer heating and cooling with only a single system to maintain.
  • Better air quality: Because they do not use ductwork to circulate dust and debris, ductless systems often improve indoor air quality

Factors to Consider Before Investing in Multi-Split Systems

There are a few things homeowners will want to consider before deciding to install a mini-split system, including:

  • Upfront cost: Multi-zone systems can cost more to set up and are often more expensive than other cooling solutions.
  • Aesthetics: Unlike traditional AC systems, your mini-split system will have indoor air units in several areas of your home and will be visible. 
  • Electrical load: A new, high-efficiency system may require you to upgrade your current electrical panel, especially for systems with many zones.

Request Ductless Mini-Split Installation From Albemarle Heating, Air & Plumbing

If you think a ductless mini-split is the right choice for your Charlottesville home, call Albemarle Heating, Air & Plumbing today to schedule an installation.

We’re experienced in working with these popular systems and can help custom design a solution that is tailored to your unique home and needs. Plus, our financing options make it a great time to invest in your total comfort.

Get comfort just right by contacting Albemarle Heating, Air & Plumbing for ductless mini-split installation today.

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