Ductless mini splits are a popular choice for home heating and cooling, and for good reason. They are energy efficient, easy to install, and versatile. But one of the most common questions we get about ductless mini split is, “What size do I need?”
The answer to that question is not as simple as you might think. There are a number of factors that go into choosing the right size mini split for your home. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through some of the things you need to consider so that you can find the perfect ductless mini split for your home.
What’s the Square Footage of Your Home?
One of the first things you need to consider when choosing a ductless mini split is the square footage of your home. The general rule of thumb is that you need one ton of cooling capacity for every 600 square feet of living space. So, if your home is 1,200 square feet, you would need a two-ton unit.
However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. If your home has high ceilings, is located in a hot climate, or has large windows, you may need more cooling capacity. Conversely, if your home is well insulated or located in a cooler climate, you may be able to get away with less cooling capacity.
In addition to square footage, you also need to take into account the layout of your home. If your home has an open floor plan, you will likely need less cooling capacity than if your rooms are all separate and enclosed.
What’s Your Climate Like?
Another important factor to consider when choosing a ductless mini split is your climate. If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions—hot summers and cold winters—you will likely need a unit with higher cooling and heating capacities.
On the other hand, if you live in an area with milder weather conditions—such as the Pacific Northwest—you may be able to get away with a lower capacity unit. It’s important to consult with a professional who knows your local climate before making a decision.
How Many Zones Do You Need?
Ductless mini splits come in single-zone and multi-zone models. Single-zone models are designed to heat or cool one specific area or room in your home. Multi-zone models can heat or cool multiple areas or rooms in your home using multiple indoor units connected to one outdoor unit.
If you only need to heat or cool one specific area in your home—such as a living room or bedroom—a single-zone model will suffice. However, if you want to be able to control the temperature in multiple areas of your home—such as an upstairs and downstairs—you will need a multi-zone model.
There are many factors to consider when choosing a ductless mini split for your home. The most important things to keep in mind are square footage, climate, and the number of zones you need to heat or cool. By taking all of these factors into account, you can be sure to find the perfect ductless mini split for your needs.
