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What is a Mini-Split System?

A ductless mini-split is a highly efficient heating and cooling system that doesn’t require ductwork. It consists of an outdoor compressor unit and one or more indoor air handlers connected by a small conduit.

Unlike traditional HVAC systems that force air through ducts (losing up to 30% of energy), mini-splits deliver conditioned air directly into each room. This makes them incredibly efficient and gives you precise control over comfort in every zone of your home.

The installation requires only a small 3-inch hole in the wall for the conduit, making it ideal for homes without existing ductwork, room additions, or situations where extending ductwork would be impractical or expensive.

Perfect for Florida Homes

Mini-splits excel in Florida’s climate, providing powerful cooling in summer and efficient heating during mild winters. Their zone control means you only cool or heat the rooms you’re using, maximizing efficiency and comfort.

Benefits of Mini-Split Systems

Discover why mini-splits are becoming the preferred choice for homeowners

  • No Ductwork Required
    Perfect for homes without existing ductwork, room additions, or older homes where adding ducts would be difficult or expensive.

  • Energy Efficient
    Up to 30% more efficient than traditional HVAC systems. High SEER ratings mean lower energy bills and reduced carbon footprint.

  • Zone Control
    Control temperature independently in each room or zone. No more fighting over the thermostat – everyone gets their perfect temperature.

  • Whisper Quiet
    Indoor units operate as quietly as 19 decibels – quieter than a whisper. You’ll barely notice they’re running.

  • Improved Air Quality
    Multi-stage filtration removes dust, allergens, and bacteria from the air. Some models include advanced purification technology.

  • Quick Installation
    Most installations completed in just one day. Minimal disruption to your home with only a small hole needed for the line set.

  • Cost-Effective
    Lower installation costs compared to traditional HVAC. Pay only to cool/heat the rooms you use, reducing wasted energy.

System Configurations

Choose the right setup for your needs

Single-Zone Systems

One outdoor unit connected to one indoor unit. Ideal for single rooms, garages, or small additions.

9,000 – 24,000 BTU

Best For:

  • Master bedrooms
  • Home offices
  • Garages and workshops
  • Sunrooms
  • Small apartments

Multi-Zone Systems

One outdoor unit connected to multiple indoor units (up to 8 zones). Perfect for independent control.

18,000 – 48,000+ BTU

Best For:

  • Whole-home cooling/heating
  • Multiple rooms or floors
  • Large homes
  • Commercial spaces
  • Custom climate zones

Mounting your indoor unit

Because of their thinner tubes and cable connections, the indoor units in a mini-split system can go more places than a traditional ducted vent.

The most typical indoor unit you’ll see is a wall-mounted unit.  These are generally mounted about 6 inches from the ceiling in order to distribute cool air downwards, as the warmer air will rise.

Beyond wall-mounted, other indoor units can be:

  • Floor-mounted: These are great for homes where windows, ceilings, or other room design prevents easy wall-mounting.
  • Floor-standing: Best for walls with even less usable space.
  • Ceiling cassette: More subtle look and better downward air spread.
  • Ceiling suspended: Provides more airflow but makes more noise, too.

Professional Installation Process

  • No Ductwork Required
    Perfect for homes without existing ductwork, room additions, or older homes where adding ducts would be difficult or expensive.

  • Energy Efficient
    Up to 30% more efficient than traditional HVAC systems. High SEER ratings mean lower energy bills and reduced carbon footprint.

  • Zone Control
    Control temperature independently in each room or zone. No more fighting over the thermostat – everyone gets their perfect temperature.

  • Whisper Quiet
    Indoor units operate as quietly as 19 decibels – quieter than a whisper. You’ll barely notice they’re running.

Most installations are completed in 4-8 hours with minimal disruption to your home. We protect your floors, clean up completely, and haul away all materials.

Mini-splits FAQS

Mini-splits have two main components: an outdoor compressor/condenser and one or more indoor air-handling units. They’re connected by a conduit housing the power cable, refrigerant tubing, and condensate drain. The outdoor unit pumps refrigerant to indoor units, which cool or heat the air and distribute it directly into the room.

Single-zone systems typically range from $3,000-$5,000 installed, while multi-zone systems range from $5,000-$15,000+ depending on the number of zones and system capacity. While the upfront cost is higher than window units, the energy savings and added home value make them a smart investment.

Yes! Most mini-split systems are heat pumps, providing both cooling and heating. They’re extremely efficient for heating in Florida’s mild winters, often more cost-effective than traditional electric or gas heating.

Mini-splits are extremely quiet. Indoor units typically operate at 19-25 decibels (quieter than a whisper or rustling leaves). The outdoor unit is about as loud as a traditional AC condenser but is placed outside, so indoor noise is minimal.

With proper maintenance, mini-split systems last 15-20 years, comparable to or longer than traditional HVAC systems. Regular filter cleaning and annual professional maintenance help maximize lifespan.

The right size depends on room square footage, ceiling height, insulation, sun exposure, and usage. As a general guide: 9,000 BTU for rooms up to 350 sq ft, 12,000 BTU for 350-550 sq ft, 18,000 BTU for 550-1,000 sq ft, and 24,000 BTU for 1,000-1,400 sq ft. Our technicians perform precise load calculations for optimal sizing.

We strongly recommend professional installation. Mini splits require specialized tools, refrigerant handling certification, electrical work, and proper sizing calculations. Professional installation ensures warranty coverage, optimal performance, and code compliance.

What is a Mini-Split System?

A ductless mini-split is a highly efficient heating and cooling system that doesn’t require ductwork. It consists of an outdoor compressor unit and one or more indoor air handlers connected by a small conduit.

Unlike traditional HVAC systems that force air through ducts (losing up to 30% of energy), mini-splits deliver conditioned air directly into each room. This makes them incredibly efficient and gives you precise control over comfort in every zone of your home.

The installation requires only a small 3-inch hole in the wall for the conduit, making it ideal for homes without existing ductwork, room additions, or situations where extending ductwork would be impractical or expensive.

Perfect for Florida Homes

Mini-splits excel in Florida’s climate, providing powerful cooling in summer and efficient heating during mild winters. Their zone control means you only cool or heat the rooms you’re using, maximizing efficiency and comfort.

Benefits of Mini-Split Systems

Discover why mini-splits are becoming the preferred choice for homeowners

  • No Ductwork Required
    Perfect for homes without existing ductwork, room additions, or older homes where adding ducts would be difficult or expensive.

  • Energy Efficient
    Up to 30% more efficient than traditional HVAC systems. High SEER ratings mean lower energy bills and reduced carbon footprint.

  • Zone Control
    Control temperature independently in each room or zone. No more fighting over the thermostat – everyone gets their perfect temperature.

  • Whisper Quiet
    Indoor units operate as quietly as 19 decibels – quieter than a whisper. You’ll barely notice they’re running.

  • Improved Air Quality
    Multi-stage filtration removes dust, allergens, and bacteria from the air. Some models include advanced purification technology.

  • Quick Installation
    Most installations completed in just one day. Minimal disruption to your home with only a small hole needed for the line set.

  • Cost-Effective
    Lower installation costs compared to traditional HVAC. Pay only to cool/heat the rooms you use, reducing wasted energy.

System Configurations

Choose the right setup for your needs

Single-Zone Systems

One outdoor unit connected to one indoor unit. Ideal for single rooms, garages, or small additions.

9,000 – 24,000 BTU

Best For:

  • Master bedrooms
  • Home offices
  • Garages and workshops
  • Sunrooms
  • Small apartments

Multi-Zone Systems

One outdoor unit connected to multiple indoor units (up to 8 zones). Perfect for independent control.

18,000 – 48,000+ BTU

Best For:

  • Whole-home cooling/heating
  • Multiple rooms or floors
  • Large homes
  • Commercial spaces
  • Custom climate zones

Mounting your indoor unit

Because of their thinner tubes and cable connections, the indoor units in a mini-split system can go more places than a traditional ducted vent.

The most typical indoor unit you’ll see is a wall-mounted unit.  These are generally mounted about 6 inches from the ceiling in order to distribute cool air downwards, as the warmer air will rise.

Beyond wall-mounted, other indoor units can be:

  • Floor-mounted: These are great for homes where windows, ceilings, or other room design prevents easy wall-mounting.
  • Floor-standing: Best for walls with even less usable space.
  • Ceiling cassette: More subtle look and better downward air spread.
  • Ceiling suspended: Provides more airflow but makes more noise, too.

Professional Installation Process

  • No Ductwork Required
    Perfect for homes without existing ductwork, room additions, or older homes where adding ducts would be difficult or expensive.

  • Energy Efficient
    Up to 30% more efficient than traditional HVAC systems. High SEER ratings mean lower energy bills and reduced carbon footprint.

  • Zone Control
    Control temperature independently in each room or zone. No more fighting over the thermostat – everyone gets their perfect temperature.

  • Whisper Quiet
    Indoor units operate as quietly as 19 decibels – quieter than a whisper. You’ll barely notice they’re running.

Most installations are completed in 4-8 hours with minimal disruption to your home. We protect your floors, clean up completely, and haul away all materials.

Mini-splits FAQS

Mini-splits have two main components: an outdoor compressor/condenser and one or more indoor air-handling units. They’re connected by a conduit housing the power cable, refrigerant tubing, and condensate drain. The outdoor unit pumps refrigerant to indoor units, which cool or heat the air and distribute it directly into the room.

Single-zone systems typically range from $3,000-$5,000 installed, while multi-zone systems range from $5,000-$15,000+ depending on the number of zones and system capacity. While the upfront cost is higher than window units, the energy savings and added home value make them a smart investment.

Yes! Most mini-split systems are heat pumps, providing both cooling and heating. They’re extremely efficient for heating in Florida’s mild winters, often more cost-effective than traditional electric or gas heating.

Mini-splits are extremely quiet. Indoor units typically operate at 19-25 decibels (quieter than a whisper or rustling leaves). The outdoor unit is about as loud as a traditional AC condenser but is placed outside, so indoor noise is minimal.

With proper maintenance, mini-split systems last 15-20 years, comparable to or longer than traditional HVAC systems. Regular filter cleaning and annual professional maintenance help maximize lifespan.

The right size depends on room square footage, ceiling height, insulation, sun exposure, and usage. As a general guide: 9,000 BTU for rooms up to 350 sq ft, 12,000 BTU for 350-550 sq ft, 18,000 BTU for 550-1,000 sq ft, and 24,000 BTU for 1,000-1,400 sq ft. Our technicians perform precise load calculations for optimal sizing.

We strongly recommend professional installation. Mini splits require specialized tools, refrigerant handling certification, electrical work, and proper sizing calculations. Professional installation ensures warranty coverage, optimal performance, and code compliance.

Why Choose Best Air Conditioning?

Experience the difference of working with Southwest Florida's trusted HVAC experts

Licensed & Insured

Fully certified technicians with comprehensive insurance coverage

24/7 Emergency Services

Available day or night when you need us most

Upfront Pricing

No hidden fees or surprise changes - ever

Check out our other Services below:

  • Duct Cleaning

    Improve airflow and indoor air quality with professional duct cleaning

  • Indoor Air Quality

    Breathe easier with advanced indoor air solutions

  • Furnace

    Reliable heating solutions built for cold climates.

  • Heat Pumps

    Comfortable living made simple with reliable heat pump systems

  • Mini Splits

    High-performance systems for cleaner, healthier air

  • Air Conditioning

    Reliable cooling solutions built for comfort and efficiency

Check out our other Services below:

Duct Cleaning

Improve airflow and indoor air quality with professional duct cleaning

Indoor Air Quality

Breathe easier with advanced indoor air solutions

Furnace

Reliable heating solutions built for cold climates.

Heat Pumps

Comfortable living made simple with reliable heat pump systems

Mini Splits

High-performance systems for cleaner, healthier air

Air Conditioning

Reliable cooling solutions built for comfort and efficiency

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