Mini-splits are energy efficient, quiet, and can provide zoned temperature control. But before you go gung ho and put one of these units just anywhere, you should avoid installing a mini split in a few places. We get it; you’re excited about the energy savings and lower utility bills. But installing a new mini split in the wrong place could end up costing you more money and headaches in the long run. As with any HVAC equipment, placement is key. So, let The Trade Table walk you through where you should not install a mini split.
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Places to Avoid Installing a Mini Split
Mini-splits should be installed in areas that avoid direct sunlight. The intense heat can damage the unit and reduce its efficiency and lifespan.
South-facing walls
The southern exposure receives the most sunlight during the day. Install the unit on an east or west-facing wall instead.
Unshaded areas
Without shade from trees, buildings, or overhangs, the mini split will be in the sun for most of the day. Look for a spot that will be shaded for at least part of the day.
Near heat sources
Don't install the mini split near external heat sources like fireplaces, furnaces, or ovens. The excess heat will make the unit work harder and reduce performance.
While mini splits can be a great way to add cooling to an area without ductwork, choosing the right location is key. Do some planning to find a spot that avoids intense, direct light and excess heat so your mini-split can work as efficiently as possible.
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Avoid Placing Near Heat and Moisture Sources
Avoid placing your mini split near any major heat or moisture sources in the room. The condenser unit pumps out hot air as it runs, so keep it away from fireplaces, wood stoves, and space heaters. The heat will reduce the unit's efficiency and may even cause damage over time.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
Keep the unit out of direct sunlight when possible. While a mini split can work in sunny areas, the heat may cause the condenser to overheat and shut down. For the best performance, look for a spot with shade for at least part of the day.
You'll also want to install the condenser in a well-ventilated area away from high-humidity sources like dryers, washers, or dishwashers. Excess moisture in the air can lead to drainage problems and reduce the lifespan of the unit.
Protecting Efficiency and Longevity Away from Heat and Humidity
For the optimal location, look for a spot at least 3 to 5 feet away from major heat and moisture sources. A garage, shed, or attic are poor choices and can void the warranty. The ideal location is in a conditioned living space, like a spare bedroom, office, or living room.
With the right installation location away from extreme heat and humidity, your mini-split system will run efficiently and last for many cooling seasons to come. Choosing a suitable spot is well worth the effort.
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Don't Install in Uninsulated Spaces
Installing a mini split in an uninsulated space like a garage, attic, or basement is not recommended and can reduce its efficiency and lifespan.
Garages
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Garages are often uninsulated, unheated spaces that experience extreme temperature changes. The temperature extremes can damage the mini-split components over time and reduce their efficiency since it has to work harder to heat or cool the space. The garage walls and ceiling should be properly insulated from a mini-split for the best performance.
Attics
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Attics are typically uninsulated, unheated spaces right under the roof that can reach extremely high temperatures in the summer. The temperature extremes in an attic can significantly reduce the lifespan and performance of a mini-split. The attic and any attic access doors or hatches should be properly insulated and sealed before installing a mini split.
Basements
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Basements are usually uninsulated, unheated spaces, often with concrete walls and floors, that maintain a cool temperature year-round. The concrete surfaces and cool temperatures can reduce the performance and efficiency of a mini split. Basement walls and any basement access doors should be insulated before installing a mini split for the best results.
Avoid Rooms With Limited Air Circulation
A mini-split system needs good airflow to operate efficiently, so avoid installing it in rooms with limited circulation. Basements, attics, and garages typically have little to no ventilation, so a mini-split may struggle in these areas. The system pulls air from the room, cools or heats it, then blows it back out. If the same air is continually recirculated, the mini-split has to work harder to regulate the temperature.
Choosing the Right Location for Your Mini Split System
Rooms with small windows or a few entryways also lack airflow. The cooled or heated air can become trapped, creating hot and cold pockets in the space. For the best performance, install your mini split in an area like a living room, bedroom, or den that connects openly to other parts of your home. Make sure any doors to the room remain open to allow air to flow freely between the spaces.
Strategic Installation in Open-Concept Spaces and Airflow Improvements
Improving ventilation in some rooms may be an option before installing a mini split. You can add an attic fan or roof vent to increase airflow in attics or garages. For basements, consider installing a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air, which can improve circulation. If improving airflow in a room isn’t possible, you may need to consider a mini-split with a higher BTU rating to overcome the challenges of limited circulation.
Don't Mount Above Eye Level
When a mini split is installed up high, it's difficult to see if there are any issues with the unit, like ice buildup, leaking refrigerant lines, or a dirty air filter. Out of sight, out of mind - you may forget the unit is even there and neglect routine maintenance. Servicing a high-mounted mini-split also requires special equipment like heavy-duty ladders or lifts to access, clean, and repair the unit, which can be time-consuming and dangerous.
The ideal location for a mini-split is on a wall at eye level, where the unit is easily visible and accessible. At eye level, you'll quickly notice if anything seems off with the mini split and be able to perform regular maintenance like filter changes, coil cleanings, and inspections easily and safely with a basic ladder. Keeping your mini split at a lower mounting height will help ensure it runs efficiently for years to come.
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Where Should You Not Install a Mini Split?
So there you have it, some spots in your home you'll want to avoid when installing a mini-split. While they're efficient, quiet, and convenient, mini splits still need the proper placement to operate effectively and efficiently. Putting one in an uninsulated attic or drafty basement probably won't give you the results you're after. And installing near exterior doors or in high-traffic areas means it'll have to work harder to keep the space comfortable.
