If you’re considering a mini split system for your home’s cooling and heating, one of the most important questions to ask is “How many mini splits do I need?” Many different factors go into determining the right system for your needs. Make sure to take these details into account and ask questions when working with professionals to install your new mini split system.
- Room Count and Zoning
- Square Footage and Overall BTUs
- Home Layout
- Professional Load Calculations
Room Count and Zoning
Mini splits are unique because you can install multiple units throughout your home, with each unit providing heating and cooling for a specific zone. Breaking your home into zones is the first step to finding the right number of units.
Primary living spaces, such as a living room or finished basement, will be their own zones, and you may or may not want units for individual bedrooms. Increasing the number of zones can mean a higher initial installation cost, but it also provides for more versatility. Controlling individual zones keeps everyone comfortable and can also reduce energy costs by avoiding waste.
Square Footage and Overall BTUs
The size of your home and individual zones play a key role in the selection of your mini split system. These systems are typically measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs), which provide a measure of heating and cooling capacity.
The specific number of BTUs per square foot varies depending on a wide range of factors, but it typically ranges from 10 to 30. A 1,500 square foot home might need a system between 15,000 and 45,000 BTUs. The distribution and sizes of interior units can vary depending on the size of individual zones.
The Impact of Home Layout
The size of your home isn’t the only factor. Its layout is also important as it affects how air flows. If you have an open layout home, you may need fewer interior units. You may have large zones that can be efficiently handled by a larger interior unit instead of a higher number of smaller units.
This could mean that you’ll need only one unit for your primary living space if the living room, dining area, and kitchen aren’t separated. However, separation by doors or other stories of your home will require individual units to maintain proper heating and cooling in those zones.
Local Climate, Insulation, and Other Factors
Determining the right number of mini split units also requires considering the local climate. You’ll need a system that can provide for Connecticut’s summers and winters, ensuring comfort year-round.
Your home’s insulation and foundation affect heating and cooling as well. A poorly insulated home may need a larger system, although choosing to upgrade your home’s insulation prior to installation is another potential option.
Professional Load Calculations
Getting the right system requires more than considering these factors. There are specific calculations to determine the heating and cooling load, and those are typically best left to professionals like the team at Cromwell Energy.
HVAC technicians will carefully evaluate your home and use tried-and-true formulas to calculate the proper system size. This ensures that your home will stay comfortable no matter the temperature outside — and you won’t have to spend more than necessary.
Find the Right Answer to “How Many Mini Splits Do I Need?”
If you want to enjoy consistent and affordable cooling and heating for your home, you need to find the answer to the question “How many mini splits do I need?” The best way to do that is to work with trusted HVAC professionals in your area. You’ll get a clear quote before moving forward with installation, so you’ll know what you are in for.
Not sure how many mini split units you’ll need or what size system is best for your home? At Cromwell Energy, we offer expert guidance to help you make the right choice for comfort and efficiency. Contact us today for a personalized estimate and get the perfect system tailored to your home’s needs.