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How Much Energy Does a Ductless Mini Split Use?

Ductless mini split

Cooling homes throughout the Columbus, GA area can involve various types of HVAC equipment. Ductless mini split air conditioners and heat pump systems are increasingly common, growing in favor among local homeowners thanks to their flexibility and energy efficiency.

Just how much energy does a mini split use, you ask? In our recent blog, the technicians at Energy Savers share that answer and more to illustrate why ductless cooling systems are a great, energy-efficient cooling choice.

What Is a Ductless Mini Split ?

A ductless mini split is a type of split HVAC system made up of indoor and outdoor equipment. Outdoors, an air conditioner or heat pump is installed, and indoors, air handling units are installed directly into the areas that require cooling. Indoor and outdoor equipment is connected by the line set that carries refrigerant between the system components.

As you may have guessed, ductless mini split cooling systems don’t require air ducts to distribute cool air into a home’s living areas. Instead, the air handling unit sends cool air right back into the space to lower the temperature. A ductless mini split system can support multiple indoor air handlers to provide cooling in several areas of the home – up to four in most cases. Because each area is equipped with its own air handler, zone temperatures can be controlled independently of one another.

How Much Energy Does a Mini Split Use?

Many homeowners are curious about how much energy a ductless mini split system uses before they select this type of cooling system over other options, such as central air conditioners. Compared to central cooling systems, ductless heat pumps and mini split air conditioners can offer much more efficient operation for several reasons:

  • No ducts are needed to distribute conditioned air, eliminating the 20 to 30 percent of energy loss caused by duct leaks in the average home using central air conditioning.
  • Installation of multiple air handlers creates a zoned cooling system with the ability to adjust temperatures in each area separately, without creating discomfort or energy waste by adding unneeded cooling in other rooms. Central cooling systems waste energy by distributing the same cooling across all areas of the home, regardless of individual needs.

How much energy does a mini split use? The total amount of electrical energy consumed by the system will depend on the energy-efficiency ratings of the equipment and its cooling capacity. Many models offer around a 9,000 BTU (British Thermal Unit) cooling capacity, using roughly 600 watts of electricity on average. During periods of high heat, energy use can be much higher.

Energy Efficiency of Ductless Mini Splits

Ductless mini split systems are extremely efficient. Compared to conventional room air conditioners like window units and portable ACs, using a ductless mini split cooling system can cut energy costs by 30 percent .

The zoned cooling capabilities and ductless air distribution of mini split systems make them 25 to 50 percent more energy efficient than conventional heating and cooling equipment. Mini split equipment utilizes highly efficient technology to lower energy consumption.

While energy efficiency varies by model, the SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating of mini split equipment can go as high as 30 – the most efficient central air conditioners and heat pumps are in the mid 20s.

Contact Energy Savers for Ductless Mini Split Services

Ready to upgrade to a highly efficient ductless mini split cooling system in your Opelika, AL or Columbus, GA home? Call Energy Savers today to request an estimate for ductless mini split cooling system installation and learn more.