In mini-split air conditioning systems, the evaporator and compressor coils are two essential components responsible for cooling the indoor air. The main difference between one-piece and two-piece evaporator compressor coils lies in their physical configuration and installation method.
- One-piece evaporator compressor coil:
- In a one-piece configuration, the evaporator coil and the compressor are combined into a single unit. This means that both components are housed together in a single casing.
- The one-piece design simplifies the installation process since you only need to connect one unit to the refrigerant lines and electrical connections.
- These systems are often referred to as "all-in-one" or "packaged" mini-splits.
- Two-piece evaporator compressor coil:
- In a two-piece configuration, the evaporator coil and the compressor are separate units. The evaporator coil is installed indoors, typically mounted on the wall or ceiling, while the compressor unit is located outside the building.
- The two-piece design provides more flexibility in installation as the indoor unit can be placed at a convenient location within the room, while the compressor can be placed outdoors, minimizing indoor noise and freeing up space.
- These systems are commonly known as "split" mini-splits.
Both one-piece and two-piece evaporator compressor coils offer similar cooling capabilities and efficiency. The choice between them depends on factors such as available installation space, aesthetic preferences, and noise considerations. While one-piece units might be simpler to install, two-piece systems are more versatile in terms of indoor unit placement and outdoor unit location, making them a popular choice for various applications.