What Is a Mini Split Air Conditioner?

Are you looking into buying a new air conditioner unit, but you're unsure which option is right for you? You're certainly not the only one. The market has gotten so big in recent years that many types are available. According to Comfy Living, the HVAC market's global value was a whopping $240.8 billion in 2019 and has grown since. Options like the mini split work well for many homes, including many of our customers. Here's a brief overview of the mini split air conditioner to get you acquainted with the option.



Understanding This System


This unique cooling unit foregoes the outdoor cooling style common with traditional air conditioning and removes the need for ductwork that moves air throughout the building. Instead, this system uses insulated lines that move refrigerant from an outdoor unit to indoor units throughout cooling zones in your home. These air conditioners are installed directly into your wall.


You can set the air temperature throughout these cooling "zones" to whatever you want. For example, you might prefer a very cold bedroom at night, while your children like it a little warmer. You can achieve a fine balance with this system by carefully adjusting the temperature in each zone. In this way, you have a high level of control over your cooling.


Even better, you can set up automatic control in your house's cooling zones, programming each zone to hit specific temperatures throughout the day. For instance, you can cool the living room down an hour before everyone gets home to ensure you walk into a comfortable and relaxing environment after a busy day at work or school.


As you might imagine, the mini split gives you far more precise cooling control, allowing you the highest comfort level in your home. However, there are even more advantages to this unit cooling system that you might want to research if you're interested in installing one. Doing so can ensure you get the inside information you deserve before buying this unit type.



Pros of This System


As you might expect, there are many benefits of this type of cooling unit that make them well worth your time. First, wall air conditioning units are more secure than window units because they can't be taken out of your window. Instead, they're securely installed into the wall, making them less likely to fall out and making your home safer.


Furthermore, since they don't require ductwork, they may cost less to install in homes without ductwork. Furthermore, they don't turn on or off constantly because they don't use an inverter. As a result, they're often far more efficient than other types of air conditioners, which can improve your heating and cooling bill and minimize your expenses considerably.


As already mentioned, they're also more efficient because you can precisely control each zone of your home. Rather than blasting the AC and hoping for the best, you can set your temperature accurately and effectively. That's a major benefit if you live with multiple people.



Cons of This System


While this HVAC system is a beneficial option for many people, there are some drawbacks that you need to consider before trying one out. For example, they typically cost more to install than a traditional model, which may be frustrating for some people to afford immediately. That said, we recommend the upgrade if you're interested in saving on your energy bills in the longer term.


These units require you to add a unit in every room, which means placing them on the wall. Though you can add some floor and ceiling models to your house, these also cost a bit more. If aesthetics are a major concern for your home and you want it to look as attractive as possible, ask our team for their recommendations for models to suit your preferences.


That said, if you don't mind the extra cost (and the yearly tune-ups that these units require), we can guarantee you'll greatly enjoy this HVAC design. It's one of the most effective ways to keep your house cool and can provide the many convenient benefits you deserve. With regular maintenance and filter changes, you can keep your system strong for years to come.


Now that you understand the
mini split air conditioner, you can decide if this model works best for your needs. For example, you might already have an air conditioning system and want to upgrade your current model or lack a system and need an upgrade. Whatever the situation, we're here to help you, so please contact our team at Focus Heating & Cooling today!

By 7003135598 August 28, 2025
At Focus Heating & Cooling, we want to keep you informed about important changes happening in the HVAC world. These changes affect what goes inside your air conditioner or heat pump to make it cool—the refrigerant. What’s Changing? Right now, most systems use a refrigerant called R-410A. But starting in 2025, this type will be phased out (discontinued) because it’s not great for the environment. Instead, a new refrigerant called R-454B will be used in new systems. It’s more environmentally friendly and helps reduce global warming. Is R-454B Safe? Yes! Even though R-454B is labeled as “mildly flammable,” it's very safe when used by trained professionals—like our team at Focus Heating & Cooling. We follow special safety rules and use the right tools to handle it properly. What Does This Mean for You? If You Already Have a System: You don’t need to replace it right away. But in the future, repairs might cost more as the old refrigerant becomes harder to find. If You’re Getting a New System: We will use the new, eco-friendly R-454B refrigerant. These systems are just as reliable—and better for the planet. Why the Switch Matters This change is part of a nationwide effort to reduce pollution and protect the environment. It’s like switching from plastic straws to paper ones—a small change that makes a big difference over time. How We Help At Focus Heating & Cooling, we’re here to: Explain the changes in plain, simple language Help you decide if it’s time for a new system or not Safely install new equipment that uses R-454B Keep your current system running smoothly as long as possible Have Questions? We’re Here for You! Call or text us at 503-563-8567 or visit us in Stayton, Oregon. Let’s keep your home comfortable—and eco-friendly!
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If a heat pump is iced over, it's important to address the issue promptly to prevent damage and restore efficient operation. Here are the steps you should take: 1. Turn on your Emergency heat on thrermostat or turn the system completely off. 2. The unit will manually defrost when it is above freezing outside. You can also use warm water to speed up the process, but avoid using sharp objects to chip away the ice, as this will damage the coils. 3. Check Airflow: Ensure that there is adequate airflow around the outdoor unit. Clear any debris, leaves, or snow that may be obstructing the airflow. Restricted airflow can cause the unit to freeze over. 4. Use Emergency Heat: If the heat pump remains frozen and you need immediate heating, switch to the emergency heat setting. This will activate the auxiliary heat source and bypass the outdoor unit. Don’t Want to Do It Yourself? (You should call for service, This problem will not fix itself) Once the unit is thawed, this is a repair for professionals! Focus Heating & Cooling is here to help! We provide expert HVAC services on all major brands. Give us a call or text today to get one of our amazing technicians out to care for your heating needs. Your comfort is our Focus! Focus Heating & Cooling 📞 Call or Text Us Today: (503) 563-8567 Let us take care of your HVAC system, so you don’t have to! By following these steps, you can effectively address a frozen heat pump and restore its normal operation. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent future freezing issues.
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Changing a filter in a generic air conditioning system involves a few straightforward steps, regardless of the specific brand or model. Here's a general guide to help you through the process: 1. Turn Off at the Thermostat: Before starting, ensure the system is turned off to prevent any air circulation while you change the filter. 2. Locate the Filter: The filter is typically located at the return air duct at the furnace or inside the air handler unit. It may be behind a grille or access panel. Or install in the return grill in the house. 3. Remove the Old Filter: Open the grille or access panel and carefully slide out the old filter. Take note of the filter's size and the direction of airflow, which is usually indicated by arrows on the filter frame. 4. Select the Correct Replacement Filter: Ensure you have the correct size and type of replacement filter. Filters come in various sizes and thicknesses, so it's important to match the new filter to the old one. 5. Write the date on the filter for easy reference on your next filter change. 6. Install the New Filter: Insert the new filter into the slot, making sure the airflow arrows point in the correct direction, towards the air handler or blower. 7. Secure the Filter: Close the grille or access panel securely to ensure the filter stays in place and the system operates efficiently. 8. Turn the Thermostat Back On: Once the new filter is installed, turn the system back on and check for proper operation. Regularly changing the filter, typically every 1-2 months depending on usage and filter type, helps maintain system efficiency and indoor air quality. A 4 inch thick filter can last as long as 6 months. Don’t Want to Do It Yourself? While changing air filters is a straightforward process, some people prefer to leave it to the professionals. If you'd rather not handle it yourself, or if you'd like a complete HVAC maintenance check, Focus Heating & Cooling is here to help! We provide expert HVAC services, including air handler maintenance, to keep your system running smoothly. Give us a call or text today to schedule a filter replacement or full maintenance service! Let us take care of your HVAC system, so you don’t have to! By staying on top of filter changes and regular maintenance, you’ll help your air conditioning system run efficiently, keeping your home comfortable and your air clean year-round.
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