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What Size Mini Split Do I Need?
If you are thinking about purchasing a mini-split, one of the main concerns is the size you will need. The size of the mini-split depends on various factors such as the square footage of the room and the BTU output required for the room. As it involves some meticulous calculations, it is recommended to get in touch with experts for determining the size of a mini-split for any home. In this article, we will discuss the correct size estimates, selecting the right size, and more about Mini Splits.
So, what size mini-split do I need? To determine the size, experts calculate the square footage of the room. This is done by multiplying the length of the room by the width. The area is multiplied by 25. This figure is the approximate BTU or British Thermal Unit output of the specific room. This is how it is sized. BTU is the representation of the quantity of energy needed to heat or cool a pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.
Keep reading to know the factors which determine the size of mini split, the advantages of using a mini split, why professional advice is recommended, and a lot more.
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How to Select the Size of Mini Split as Per Your Requirement
It is required to buy the correct size of mini split which is important for its high efficiency performance and its great cooling ability. In case you install the wrong size, it might not work as efficiently as you want it to.
In case the sizing is small, or if it is too large, there might not be proper cooling. In case the units are installed in the wrong places or if the installation is done incorrectly, you might have to pay a lot of money to fix it. Systems that are not of the correct size or those which are positioned incorrectly, might interfere with its humidity control ability. As a result, you may have to be high electric charges.
Sizing of the split system generally depends on the level of insulation. It also depends on the area which needs cooling. It is also dependent on the number of indoor air handlers, you wish to include. Since you will be investing in a system that is known for its high-performance, it is recommended to get in touch with professionals to determine the correct size and installation.
Thus, when professionals do the installation and wiring of the mini split for you, it is assured that your split system works efficiently and your investment is protected.
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Here Is an Approximate Sizing Guide Of Mini Split
| Area To Be Cooled | Capacity Needed (BTUs Per Hour) |
| 150 to 250 square feet | 6,000 BTUs |
| 250 to 300 square feet | 7,000 BTUs |
| 300 to 350 square feet | 8,000 BTUs |
| 350 to 400 square feet | 9,000 BTUs |
| 400 to 450 square feet | 10,000 BTUs |
| 450 to 550 square feet | 12,000 BTUs |
| 550 to 700 square feet | 14,000 BTUs |
| 700 to 1,000 square feet | 18,000 BTUs |
| 1,000 to 1,200 square feet | 21,000 BTUs |
| 1,200 to 1,400 square feet | 23,000 BTUs |
| Up to 1,500 square feet | 24,000 BTUs |
Is Square Footage the Only Factor Which Determines the Size of Mini-Split?
Often it is seen that homeowners strictly use the rule of thumb to determine the size of the mini-split they require. However, if you seek expert advice, they might do a ‘load calculation’ to find the estimate.
When any expert carries out a load calculation, the following is taken into consideration. These are many factors and generally include:
- The total number of windows in the room
- The total number of doors in the room
- How many occupants are there?
- How is the flooring of the room? Is it hardwood flooring or carpet flooring?
- If there is a kitchen space close to a room
- The climate of the region
- Is the square footage of the room considered by not including its closets?
- What is the ceiling height?
- How good is the insulation of the room?
- Is there direct sunlight in the room? How much sunlight does the room get and the duration?
- Is there any extra heat source present in this room?
- How are the lightbulbs in this room? What type of lightbulbs are these?
How Different Factors Can Influence the Sizing of Mini Split
- In situations where the ceiling is more than 8 feet tall, it is necessary to increase the BTU output. It should be increased by at least 20%.
- In case the room is not well insulated, it might increase the BTU by at least 30%.
- If the temperature of your city is more than 90 degrees F, the estimated BTU can increase by 30%.
How to Choose the Mini Split for Your Home or Business
Just as in the case of all conditioners, users have to know the BTUs needed to heat or cool an area that they are looking at when installing the mini-split. It is also necessary to think about the handles that one will need for the application.
Generally, a single air handler is required for each room. However, in case the home or business premise has a lot of open areas, one might need to cool several rooms with a single multi-zone outdoor unit.
Users have many options when selecting a type of air vent or handlers when buying. There are many which are installed on the walls. Others are generally mounted in ceiling. Professionals usually mention the different options so that the user can decide the type of mini split that shall meet the needs.
Popularity of Mini Splits
One of the major reasons for the popularity of such a system is that it does not use any kind of duct, which is required by a central air conditioning system. An additional benefit of using mini splits is that they are easy to install.
Advantages of Using Mini Splits
- These are highly efficient which means they help in lowering utility bills
- Various zoned areas can be created which means added efficiency.
- The indoor units are quite attractive and they ensure quiet operation.
- There are no big or bulky exhaust hoses
- The system costs a lot less than other central AC systems
Questions Related to The Size of Mini Split I need?
- Can I install the mini split myself?
Experts do not recommend installing a mini split all by yourself. It is advised to get in touch with licensed contractors for the installation process. Thus, it will be assured that the installation will be done as per guidelines and will not just ensure optimum efficiency but will be safe as well.
- What is the average size of a mini-split?
Generally, the average size of a wall-mounted ductless mini-split system is 32 inches wide, it is one foot tall and nine inches deep.
- Will my mini-split heat my whole house?
Ductless mini-splits are quite efficient and versatile. Yes, if you buy one of the right sizes, it can heat the whole house.
To conclude, we can say that it is important to buy a mini-split of the right size so that it works efficiently. Besides, you need to ensure that it is installed by professionals who are trained in the installation and wiring of the system.
How many square feet does a 3-ton AC unit cool?
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Sources:
https://www.minisplitwarehouse.com/page/what-size-mini-split
