subject: Advantages And Disadvantages Of Mini Split System Air Conditioners [print this page] Mini split system air conditioners can provide you with a cool comfortable home or business. They are efficient and quiet and some are quite attractive looking, making them popular in many homes and offices. However like any product they have their advantages and disadvantages and knowing both the upside and downside of these systems will help you to make an informed decision as to whether a split air conditioner is right for your home or business.
Advantages:
* Small and flexible
They can be mounted high on the wall, flush with the ceiling and there are even floor models available. They can also be used in rooms or offices without windows or outside walls.
* Easy installation
They are often easier to install than central air conditioners or window or wall units.
* Avoids energy losses associated with duct work in central air conditioners
Central air conditioners account for 30% of energy consumption in homes and small office buildings.
* Different temperatures in different rooms
Keep different rooms or zones at different temperatures and you can even turn off the conditioning in rooms not being used.
* Safer than window or wall units
Window and wall units provide wide openings in which intruders can enter the home or business. Split air conditioners only require a 3 inch opening to the outside.
* Quiet
Mini split systems are usually very quiet.
* No duct work necessary
A great solution for multifamily dwellings where there is no duct work or no space for central air conditioning.
Disadvantages:
* Cost
Estimates say that these air conditioners cost twice as much as window or wall units. However, considering that they usually cool more rooms this may or may not be considered a disadvantage. They also cost 30% more to buy and install than most central air conditioning units. Again, when one considers that once they are installed, they are more energy efficient this may or may not be considered a disadvantage.
* Difficulty in hiring experienced installers
There are few companies that are willing to install split air conditioning units. Although installation is simple, installers seem to be few and far between. When purchasing a system like this it would be wise to make sure the company who is selling the unit has someone willing to install it or can recommend an experienced installer to do the job.
A split air conditioner may solve many of your problems and give you the benefits of temperature control in areas where it is not feasible to install central air con. However, being aware of the disadvantages as well as the advantages will help you to make an informed choice as to whether they are right for your situation.
Take the time to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of these systems and talk to an installer before making a purchase. That way you can be sure it is the right system for your office or home.
