An air conditioner typically consists of two main units: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The outdoor unit is responsible for dissipating heat from the indoor air to the outside, while the indoor unit cools and circulates the air within the living space. However, some air conditioning systems, known as "ductless mini-split" or "ductless split" systems, can work without a traditional outdoor unit.
Here's how a ductless mini-split system works without an outdoor unit:
Indoor Unit(s): In a ductless mini-split system, one or more indoor units are installed inside the living space. These indoor units contain a coil and a fan. The fan blows the indoor air over the coil, which acts as the evaporator. The evaporator absorbs heat from the indoor air, cooling it down.
Refrigerant Lines: Instead of using ductwork like central HVAC systems, a ductless mini-split system utilizes refrigerant lines to connect the indoor units with an outdoor condensing unit (sometimes called a condenser). These lines are much smaller and require a small hole in the wall to connect the indoor and outdoor units.
Outdoor Condensing Unit: Although there's no traditional outdoor unit with a large fan, the outdoor condensing unit houses a compressor and a condenser coil. Its primary function is to pump refrigerant between the indoor and outdoor units, and it releases heat into the outside air through the condenser coil.
Remote Control or Thermostat: Ductless mini-split systems come with a remote control or a thermostat that allows you to set the desired temperature and control the cooling or heating operation of the indoor units.
Zoning Capability: One of the main advantages of ductless mini-split systems is their zoning capability. Each indoor unit can be controlled independently, allowing you to set different temperatures in various rooms or zones. This can lead to increased energy efficiency and personalized comfort.
Ductless mini-split systems are popular in situations where installing ductwork is impractical or expensive, such as in older homes or room additions. They are also known for their energy efficiency because there are no duct losses, and they provide targeted cooling or heating where it's needed.
It's essential to have a professional HVAC technician install and size a ductless mini-split system correctly for optimal performance and efficiency in your specific living space.