Mini Split Systems For Your Tiny House (Buyers Guide And Reviews)

Ductless HVAC systems have become more and more popular over the years, and for good reason. These systems, also known as mini splits, can provide heating and cooling without any problems associated with ductwork.

Switching to a ductless mini split will allow homeowners to regulate each rooms temperature individually, all while reducing the loss of energy, and saving money. If you’re interested in learning more about mini splits, or are looking for a new unit, you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, I will breakdown all of the components you can find on mini splits, how these ductless units work, and the benefits of switching to ductless heating and cooling, so stick around!

How Do Mini Splits Work?

It doesn’t matter if you are using your system for heat or AC, the mini split system is made up of two main parts, the indoor and outdoor mechanisms.

The outdoor unit is where the compressor and condenser sit. This applies pressure to the refrigerant, which is then sent through lines to the unit inside of your home.

The indoor units is made up of three different elements, the air-handler, evaporator coil, and the blower. You can strategically place the indoor unit anywhere in your home to ensure even coverage of air, and energy efficiency.

All mini split air handling units can be placed in numerous areas around your home, including the ceiling or walls. This is a huge help to those living in tiny houses, mostly because the systems take up little to absolutely no floor space.

Along with free space in your home, the outdoor units are placed out of the way, and can be very quiet, so you don’t have to listen to a loud compressor sound as the mini split runs.

Options For Your Mini-Split

If you have had central air in your home, then you know that the options you have with configuration are slim to none. This can make things difficult when it comes to getting the most out of your HVAC system.

Fortunately for you, mini-split systems have a variety of options and configurations perfect for your tiny home. The following are the options you can expect to find on each mini split system, catering perfectly to your unique home.

Wall Units: This part of the mini split is where all of your adjustments can be made. You can change blower speed, temperature, set timers, and select from a plethora of modes. This makes sure your home is as comfortable as possible.

Ceiling Units: If you do live in a tiny house, then space in limited, I know. If you don’t want a large unit attached to your wall, then the ceiling cassette may be the perfect option for you. These units are placed in the ceiling, while the blower runs air through the exposed grated cassette.

The Heat Pump: If your mini-split is going to be used for heating purposes, the unit will be equipped with a heat pump. Heat pumps are responsible for moving heat from the outdoor unit to the indoor unit. Furthermore, the heat pumps are equipped with reversing valves, that way you can change the flow direction of heat.

Multi/Single Zone Condensing Unit: Each mini-split is equipped with an outdoor condensing unit.  If you decide that a single zone unit is all you need then the condenser will provide heating and cooling to one specific zone in your home. The multi-zone units are typically used for larger houses, and can run multiple indoor units in your home.

Common Mini-Split Applications

Depending on your specific situation in your home, ductless mini splits can cater to your needs. If you are adding on to your home, or renovating an old section, the mini split system may be perfect for you. Most of the time, adding a new room to your home, and tying in to an old HVAC system, will be an inadequate amount of heat or AC for the new addition. This is the perfect time to invest in a mini-split.

On top of home additions, mini splits can be great for supplemental HVAC. Maybe you live in a larger home, and you don’t want to expand your ductwork for your newly renovated garage, or basement. The mini split system can be a perfect addition without running into problems with your old outdated central air system.

If you are in the process of building a home, or tiny house, then ductless HVAC systems are a great way to save money, and energy every month. The mini splits are typically cheaper to install as well.

The Benefits Of Ductless Air Conditioning

The following are some of the awesome benefits you will get when switching to mini-split air conditioning in your tiny house.

Tons Of Features!

Are you looking for convenience? Then forget about those old outdated heating and cooling systems. Many of the mini split systems are built with tons of features that make a house more comfortable than ever. A remote control is one of the best features, and allows changes to be made to the unit, even if the unit is out of hands reach.

Each unit comes standard with it’s own programmable timer, making it easy to set run times, and save money on your utility bill when the system doesn’t need to be running. Not only can you save money with the timer setting, but all of the filters are washable as well. This allows for easy maintenance, and less money spent on your unit.

The addition of a heat pump is extremely convenient when the winter months roll around, making the switch from AC to heat super easy.

Operating Modes

Mini-split systems are usually equipped with multiple operating modes. The obvious two are your heating and cooling settings. Beyond that, the mini splits can help to dehumidify moisture heavy rooms, which can be uncomfortable to live in.

In addition to dehumidifying, you can also find fan modes, automatic modes, and even a sleep mode for added comfort throughout your home.

Energy Efficient

The mini-split systems are built specifically to be energy efficient. Unlike ducted HVAC systems, you don’t loose 30% of your energy due to faulty ductwork, or construction. All of that energy lost results in higher utility costs, and inefficient room cooling or heating.

With mini split systems, you have control of the temperature from room to room, and can sleep soundly knowing you aren’t wasting away money on a ducted HVAC system.

Improving Your Air Quality

Because mini-split systems don’t have extensive ductwork, the air quality is exponentially cleaner than a standard central air system. The collection of dust particles and debris can gather in your ductwork, becoming a mix of toxic material, which then blows into your home.

Thankfully we have mini splits. These filtered units improve the quality of air, without the gathering of dust in the ductwork. They are also extremely easy to maintain and clean, making them the best option for home heating and air conditioning.

TinyHouseLife’s: Best Mini Split Options For Your Tiny House

If you’re looking for an all-in-one combo for your heating and cooling, then mini split systems are going to fulfill your needs. These systems supply whole house air conditioning and heating for a great price, all while saving you money on your energy bill. Continue reading to learn more, and check out our review on each product!

GREE Ductless Mini Split System

The GREE ductless mini split system is perfect for heating and cooling any size tiny home. There are multiple sizes to choose from, and are extremely efficient.

The mini split system can save you a bunch of money each month on your electric bill. If you want to learn more about the GREE mini split systems then check out our GREE Ductless Mini Split System Review!

Mirage Ventus Ductless MINI-Split System

If you want a quality mini split system for a great price, then look no further. The Mirage Mini Split System is perfect for your tiny house, supplying heating and cooling without any ductwork. If you want to learn more about this system check out our full Mirage Mini Split System Review Here!

Perfect Aire Ductless Mini Split System

The Perfect Aire Mini Split System provides maximum efficiency, comfort, and control at a great price. If you want your heating and cooling system all in one, then this product is right for you. These powerful mini spit systems are perfect for any tiny house owner. To read the full review on the Perfect Aire Mini Split System click here!

MRCOOL Olympus Ductless Mini Split System

The MRCOOL ductless mini split system is sure to fulfill your whole house HVAC needs. Available in 3 zones, this mini split system is efficient, and effective for many different house layouts. If you want to learn more about the MRCOOL mini split system, read the full review here!

Mitsubishi Electric Ductless Mini Split System

Mitsubishi has been a trusted company for years, and it is no surprise why. They build quality and efficient equipment, just like their mini split system.

Mitsubishi mini split’s are guaranteed to help you to keep rooms cool in the summer, and toasty in the winter. If you are looking for a high quality product at a great price, check out the full Mitsubishi Ductless Mini Split review here!

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