Best Place to Put the Mini Split Air Handler and Condenser
Ductless mini-splits have gained widespread popularity for their practical cooling and heating applications for home additions, retrofits and hard to reach areas in the home. To drive performance, you need to choose the best places to install the indoor and outdoor parts of your ductless mini-split.
If you’re working with a competent professional who follows HVAC industry best practices for system sizing and selection, you’re off to a great start! Installing the ductless mini-split A/C in the best location is the crucial next step. Use these tips to make sure the job is well done so you can maximize home cooling and energy efficiency.
Ductless Systems
Three components contain all the parts of a ductless system. Like bulkier central air conditioning systems, the ductless system’s outdoor cabinet houses the compressor, condenser, fan and electrical parts. The indoor air handler consists of a sleek cabinet or cassette that houses the evaporator, condensate drain, fan, air filter and electrical sensors.
The third component of a ductless system is a thin conduit housing refrigerant lines, power and the condensate drain. Depending on the selected unit, the conduit may extend 50 feet or more, which offers greater flexibility when choosing the best places to install the indoor and outdoor parts of your ductless mini-split. Keep in mind that the closer the indoor and outdoor parts, the better energy efficiency you’ll receive.
Indoor Mini Split Unit(s)
You can install your indoor mini split units, or air handlers, anywhere you need targeted comfort — a hard-to-condition bedroom, a new addition that doesn’t have ductwork, your living room and kitchen, etc. Depending on your home comfort needs, you might install just one indoor unit, or you might end up installing several units.
Wherever you choose to install your mini split(s), keep in mind that every mini split installation location does need to be on an exterior wall — that is, a wall that runs along the exterior of your home. There should also be at least two inches of accessible space above each indoor unit.
Outdoor Condenser
Typically, the best location for a heat pump condenser is a shady area, away from direct sunlight. The condenser also needs to be installed directly on the side of or behind the home, away from any shrubbery or vegetation (which could interfere with airflow.) It may also be an option to mount the outdoor unit to an outside wall with stand-off mounting brackets. If you take this route with your condenser unit, you must ensure that there is at least five inches of space between the wall and the unit and at least 20 inches of space above it. Your installation technician can help you determine the best option for your mounting your new outdoor condenser.
