There are a few terms you may have heard within the HVAC world but not fully understood, and a common example here is the split system. What exactly is a split system HVAC setup, and should it be something you consider for your home or building?
At Dick Kearsley Service Center, we proudly offer a wide range of furnace and AC repair, AC installation and more to clients around Ogden, Roy, Kaysville, Syracuse and nearby areas of Utah. We service a wide range of HVAC products, including split system setups. What exactly does this term refer to, what are some examples of split HVAC systems, and which benefits might a split system provide for you? Here are some basics.
What is a Split HVAC System?
Broadly speaking, a split system HVAC setup refers to one that has both an indoor and outdoor unit that are connected to each other. The outdoor unit, usually located on the side of the building or on the roof, contains the condenser and compressor components.
The indoor unit is typically located in a basement, attic, or dedicated utility closet and contains the evaporator. These two units are connected by refrigerant lines that allow for heat transfer between them.
Examples of Split HVAC Systems
If you're unsure what we mean in the above definition, here are some basic examples of split system HVAC setups that are often found in homes today:
- Heat pumps: One of the most common forms of split HVAC systems, heat pumps are electric-powered and use refrigerant to move warm air from one place to another. They're highly efficient in both heating and cooling modes, making them ideal for moderate climates.
- Ductless mini-splits: These systems don't require ductwork, so they're great for homes without existing ducts or where adding ducts isn't feasible. They consist of an outdoor compressor and multiple indoor units that can be mounted on walls or ceilings.
- Central air conditioners: These are the most familiar form of split HVAC system, where a large outdoor unit combines with an indoor evaporator that's typically connected to existing ductwork.
- Furnaces: Some furnaces use split system setups, such as gas furnaces with an indoor and outdoor component.
- Fan coils: In other cases, you may have a separate indoor unit called a fan coil instead of an evaporator. This is often found in apartments and condo buildings, where the outdoor unit connects to multiple fan coils within individual living units.
Benefits of Split System Setups
So why might you consider a split HVAC system for your home or building? Here are just a few potential advantages:
- Energy efficiency: Split systems are highly efficient, as they allow for individual temperature control in different areas of the building. This means you can save money by only heating or cooling the rooms that are being used.
- Flexibility: With multiple indoor units, you have more flexibility in terms of where you want to place them and how many you need to adequately heat or cool your space.
- Quiet operation: Because the noisiest components are located outside, split systems tend to operate quietly and can provide a more comfortable environment.
- Zoning: As mentioned, individual temperature control in different zones is possible with a split system. This can be especially beneficial for multi-level homes or buildings where each floor has unique heating and cooling needs.
Possible Downsides of Split System HVAC Setups
On the other hand, there are a few potential downsides to split system setups that you should be aware of:
- Higher upfront cost: Split systems tend to be more expensive upfront compared to other HVAC options. However, they may save you money in the long run due to their energy efficiency.
- Regular maintenance: Because they consist of both indoor and outdoor units, split systems may require more regular maintenance and upkeep compared to other HVAC setups.
- Space requirements: Depending on the type of split system you choose, you may need to have enough space for both indoor and outdoor units. This could be a challenge in smaller homes or buildings.
- Outdoor noise: While split systems tend to operate quietly, the outdoor unit may still produce some noise that can be a concern for neighbors or in close-packed neighborhoods.
Ultimately, whether a split system HVAC setup is right for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you're unsure, our team at Dick Kearsley Service Center can help guide you in the right direction. Contact us today to learn more about our HVAC and appliance repair services around Ogden, Roy, Kaysville, Syracuse, and nearby areas of Utah.
