Split AC Indoor Unit Buying Guide for Homeowners

If you're in the market for a new split AC indoor unit, you're likely wondering where to start. A good place to begin is by considering the size of the unit you need, which is determined by the square footage of the area you want to cool.

The ideal size of a split AC indoor unit is usually around 1-2 tons for small to medium-sized rooms, and 2-3 tons for larger spaces.

When choosing a split AC indoor unit, it's also essential to think about the type of cooling you need, such as single-zone or multi-zone cooling, which can be controlled separately in different areas of your home.

Split AC indoor units are also known for their energy efficiency, with some models using up to 30% less energy than traditional window units.

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Choose a central location for the indoor unit where the cool air can easily flow through your home, such as in the living room.

The ideal location for the indoor unit is away from direct sunlight and heat sources for the best results. Mount the unit 7 feet off the floor and ensure there’s at least 6–12 inches of open space on every side of the unit to allow for proper airflow.

To secure the mounting plate to the interior wall, hold it against the wall where you want to install the indoor unit and use a level to make sure it is both horizontally and vertically level.

Drill a 3 in hole through the wall so you can feed the pipes outside. Make a mark in the center of the hole in the mounting plate and use a keyhole saw or a drill with a hole-cutting attachment to create a circular 3 in opening through the wall that slopes slightly downward toward the ground to ensure adequate drainage.

Here are the necessary electrical connections to check on the indoor unit:

To secure the indoor unit to the mounting plate, simply align the female connections on the back of the unit with the male connections on the mounting plate and press firmly to secure the unit in place.

Minisplit systems are actually quite simple in design. They have two main components: an outdoor compressor/condenser and an indoor air-handling unit.

These components are linked by a conduit that houses the power cable, refrigerant tubing, and a condensate drain. This conduit is crucial for the system's operation, allowing the two units to communicate and work together efficiently.

You can order Single Zone Mini Split Indoor Units online and pick them up at a Ferguson location near you.

To find your nearest pickup location, enter the site, and a location within a 50-mile radius will be automatically selected.

You can change your pickup location and see availability for other nearby locations by clicking the "Change Pickup Location" link on the product page or in the cart.

Local Pickup can only be scheduled online at this time, and eligible items will have this option available on the product page and in the cart.

Items are usually ready for pickup the same day the online order is placed, but this may depend on order volume and time of day.

You'll receive an email with specific pickup instructions when your order is ready, so be sure to check your junk/spam folder.

Make sure to pick up your order within two business days, or it may be canceled.

During checkout, you'll need to enter the name, mobile phone number, and email address of the person who will be picking up the order.

Only you or your designated pickup party may pick up your order, and you'll need your order confirmation and a government-issued photo ID to do so.

Not all items are available at all locations, so pickup availability will vary based on the selected store.

Some items ship directly from our manufacturer partners and are not available for pickup, so be sure to check for availability at nearby Local Pickup locations.

If you can't pick up your order promptly, consider having it shipped instead.

Minisplit systems have two main components: an outdoor compressor/condenser and an indoor air-handling unit.

These components are connected by a conduit that houses the power cable, refrigerant tubing, and a condensate drain.

The outdoor unit is responsible for compressing the refrigerant, which is then sent through the conduit to the indoor unit.

The indoor unit is where the air is actually cooled or heated, and it's usually much quieter and more energy-efficient than traditional air conditioning systems.

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Mini-splits offer several advantages, including small size and flexibility, which allows for zoning and cooling individual rooms. Some models can connect up to four indoor units to a single outdoor unit, enabling efficient cooling tailored to specific areas.

Installing a minisplit system is simpler than installing whole-house air conditioning systems, requiring only a small hole through a wall for the conduit. The outdoor unit can be located up to 50 feet away from the indoor unit, offering flexibility in placement.

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Minisplits are energy efficient, avoiding the energy losses associated with ductwork in central forced air systems. This can account for more than 30% of energy consumption for air conditioning.

Here are the key advantages of minisplits:

However, minisplits also have some disadvantages, including a higher cost compared to central systems and central systems without ductwork. They can cost twice as much as window units of similar capacity.

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Mini-splits offer a range of advantages that make them a popular choice for cooling and heating individual rooms or small spaces.

One of the most significant benefits of mini-splits is their small size and flexibility, allowing for zoning and cooling individual rooms.

They're also incredibly easy to install, requiring only a small hole through a wall for the conduit, making them a great option for DIY enthusiasts or those who want a hassle-free installation process.

This flexibility in placement is also a major advantage, as the outdoor unit can be located up to 50 feet away from the indoor unit, giving you the freedom to place them where it's most convenient.

Mini-splits are also energy-efficient, avoiding the energy losses associated with ductwork in central forced air systems, which can account for more than 30% of energy consumption for air conditioning.

This means you can enjoy cool temperatures without breaking the bank on your energy bills.

In addition to their energy efficiency, mini-splits also offer design flexibility, with indoor air handlers that can be suspended from ceilings, mounted flush into drop ceilings, hung on walls, or be floor-standing.

They often come with sleek, high-tech designs and remote controls for easy operation, making them a stylish addition to any room.

And the best part? Mini-splits can run in reverse to provide heating during colder times of the year, making them a dual-functionality system that can efficiently cool your home in the summer and heat it during the winter.

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Minisplits have some significant downsides to consider. One major disadvantage is their higher upfront cost, which can be twice as much as window units of similar capacity.

Correctly sizing each indoor unit and choosing the best installation location is crucial, but it can be a challenge. Oversized or poorly placed air handlers can lead to short cycling, wasting energy and failing to provide proper temperature or humidity control.

Some people may not find the appearance of indoor units appealing. They can be less obtrusive than window air conditioners, but they lack the built-in look of central systems.

Minisplits generally have lower MERV filters that are not typically able to capture small particles that greatly affect indoor air quality. If greater air filtration is desired, a separate filtered air cleaner device may be necessary.

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Mini-splits are a great solution for rooms that don't already have a heating and cooling system, like an addition, finished basement, attic bonus room, or a garage workshop.

They can also add air conditioning to a high traffic area like a kitchen or living room, or even a room where you just might want a little extra temperature control like a nursery.

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Mini-splits are ideal for rooms that are off-kilter from the rest of the home's heating system, like sunrooms, which can heat up and cool down much faster than the rest of the house.

In fact, according to Tim De Stasio, president of Southern Comfort Consulting and Service of Greensboro, North Carolina, sunrooms are "pretty much glass ovens" that require separate temperature control.

Mini-splits offer a lot of flexibility in sizing the system to your needs, with individually controlled indoor units that can be mounted high on a wall, on the floor, or even recessed into a ceiling.

The outdoor unit can be as small as a piece of luggage, but the more indoor units you have, the larger the outdoor unit needs to be to support them.

With mini-splits, you can control the temperature in each room separately, and some models can even sense when someone is in the room and adjust the temperature accordingly.

Mini-splits can work as a small space's primary system in a mild climate. They're ideal for rooms that don't already have a heating and cooling system, like an addition or a garage workshop.

A couple of well-placed indoor units can handle the heating and cooling needs for most of the year in some homes. Mini-splits also make sense in rooms that are off-kilter from the rest of the home's heating system, like sunrooms that heat up and cool down much faster than the rest of the house.

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Consider the brand's reputation and customer support. Some popular brands, like LG and Mitsubishi, are well-known for their reliable products and excellent customer service.

Research the brand's energy efficiency ratings, as some may be more eco-friendly than others. For example, the LG LP1419IVSM model has an Energy Star rating, indicating it meets energy efficiency standards.

Think about the brand's warranty and maintenance requirements. Some brands, like Carrier, offer longer warranties and more comprehensive maintenance options.

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Check if the brand offers a wide range of models to suit different budgets and needs. The Mitsubishi MZ-FH series, for instance, offers a variety of models with different features and price points.

Consider the brand's design and aesthetic appeal, as some mini-split ACs can be quite sleek and modern. The Daikin FTXS series, for example, has a slim design that can blend in with most home decor.

Picking an installer for your mini-split AC is a crucial decision. You want to make sure they're qualified and experienced in handling your specific type of system.

Check their credentials and look for certifications from organizations like the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA). This ensures they have the necessary knowledge and skills to install your mini-split AC correctly.

Experience matters when it comes to installing mini-split ACs. Look for installers who have worked with similar systems and have a proven track record of successful installations.

Consider their reputation and read online reviews to get a sense of their work quality and customer satisfaction. A good installer will have a strong reputation and happy customers to back it up.

Don't be afraid to ask questions and get a sense of their communication style. A good installer will be able to explain the installation process and answer any questions you may have.