What is a Mini Split?

Mini splits are known by a few different names in the HVAC industry. Sometimes, they are called mini split air conditioners or mini split heat pumps. Other times, they are referred to as a ductless AC, a ductless HVAC or a ductless mini split system.

Whichever term you prefer, they all stand for the same thing – a super-efficient heating and cooling system that doesn’t require any ductwork, which means it can be installed just about anywhere you have a wall.

Common Terms for Mini Splits
  • Mini Split Air Conditioner
  • Mini Split Heat Pump
  • Ductless AC
  • Ductless HVAC
  • Ductless Mini Split System

How Do Mini Splits Work?

A mini split system consists of an outdoor unit, which is similar to the outdoor compressor you might see outside a home with a conventional (or standard split) HVAC system. However, rather than blowing the air into your home via ductwork, a mini split uses indoor air handlers strategically mounted to walls in your home to distribute the air.

The wall units are connected to the outdoor compressor vis a thin conduit, and the air is cooled directly in the wall units, so there’s no need for ductwork to carry the air throughout your home. Each wall unit can be programmed with a remote or smartphone app, allowing for precise room-by-room temperature control.

Not only do mini splits cool your home, but they can also transfer heat, which makes them an ideal solution for home additions and rooms that present a temperature control challenge, such as an office over the garage or a third-story bedroom.

Why Do Mini Splits Need to Be Cleaned?

Just like duct cleaning in a traditional HVAC system, it’s important to clean a mini split to ensure clean air quality and optimal performance. Airborne bacteria and mold spores can accumulate inside your air conditioning system, triggering respiratory problems and allergies. The buildup of dirt and debris can also damage components, lead to breakdowns, and require the unit to use as much as 30% more energy.

Due to their ductless design, mini splits require more frequent filter cleanings than ducted systems. While air ducts should be cleaned every 3-5 years (more often in humid climates), mini split systems should be cleaned professionally every 6 months to a year, and filters should be replaced every 30 days.

Why Choose HydroKleen?

HydroKleen goes beyond your AC unit’s filters to thoroughly remove contaminants that can pass through and accumulate in the head of the air conditioning system. Using a cleaning agent and HydroKleen’s revolutionary wet-wash system, we meticulously remove all dirt and contaminants to ensure a spotlessly clean system inside and out. The result is improved air quality, lower energy bills, and fewer repairs.

To schedule an appointment for mini split cleaning in York County, Gloucester, Hampton Roads, Richmond and the surrounding region, call (757) 585-0044 or request a service online.