1 Ton Mini Split

The Best Mini Split for 1 Ton Mini Split

Here are some of the best Mini Split for 1 Ton Mini Split on The Trade Table:

GREE Sapphire 12K BTU 30.5 SEER Wall Mount Mini-Split Single Zone Heat Pump

The GREE Sapphire 12K BTU 30.5 SEER Wall Mount Mini-Split Single Zone Heat Pump model SAP12HP230V1A is an ultra high-efficiency ductless system designed for optimal performance and energy savings. It offers reliable heating even in extreme cold, down to -22°F, while maintaining up to 90% heating capacity. With G-10 Inverter Technology, the Sapphire provides consistent and quiet operation, making it a great addition to any living space. The system features multiple fan speeds, intelligent defrost, and advanced diagnostics for easy troubleshooting. AHRI Certified, the GREE Sapphire comes with a 5-year limited warranty for peace of mind

ACiQ Platinum 12000 BTU 25 SEER Single Zone Concealed Duct Mini Split System With Extreme Heat

The ACiQ Platinum 12,000 BTU 25 SEER Single Zone Concealed Duct Mini Split System with Extreme Heat offers ultra-high efficiency for both heating and cooling. With a SEER rating of 25 and HSPF of 13, this system delivers powerful performance at an affordable price. It’s equipped with Extreme Heat technology, which ensures continuous heating even at temperatures as low as -22°F. The system features a 12,000 BTU condenser and a concealed duct air handler that allows for discreet installation in spaces such as ceilings, with flexible ducting to distribute conditioned air. With a quiet operation, customizable setup, and advanced efficiency, it's an ideal solution for small rooms or spaces needing concealed climate control. Additionally, the unit is Energy Star certified and comes with a 12-year compressor warranty and a 7-year parts warranty when registered online.

Buck Cool Mini-Split EZ Connect 12K BTU Complete Installation Kit

The Buck Cool Mini-Split EZ Connect 12K BTU Complete Installation Kit provides a convenient and easy-to-install heating and cooling solution. Designed for DIY installation, it includes pre-charged EZ Connect line sets, eliminating the need for professional help. With a 12,000 BTU capacity, a SEER rating of 22, and coverage for up to 500 sq. ft., it’s perfect for small spaces. This kit features DC inverter-driven motors, high-efficiency rotary compressors, and a remote with a built-in thermostat. Additionally, the included WiFi adapter allows for easy control of the system from your phone. All necessary components for installation are provided, making this an efficient and user-friendly option for managing your home's climate.

MRCOOL DIY 4th Generation E Star 12k BTU Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump Complete System

The MRCOOL DIY 4th Generation E Star 12k BTU Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump Complete System offers a high-performance solution for heating and cooling spaces up to 500 sq. ft. With an impressive 22 SEER rating, it provides efficient operation and is Energy Star certified. The system includes a 12,000 BTU condenser, air handler, and a 25 ft. pre-charged line set for easy installation. Features like the Follow Me function, multiple operating modes, WiFi compatibility, and control via smartphone make it user-friendly. With a limited lifetime compressor warranty and standard 5-year parts warranty, it ensures long-term reliability for any home.

GREE Vireo Gen3 12K BTU 25 SEER Wall Mount Mini-Split Single Zone Heat Pump - 3VIR12HP115V1A

The GREE Vireo Gen3 12K BTU 25 SEER Wall Mount Mini-Split Single Zone Heat Pump is a highly efficient system that combines cutting-edge technology with a sleek design. With a 25 SEER rating, it offers exceptional performance in both heating and cooling. It features Gree’s G-10 Inverter Technology, which provides consistent temperature control, and operates quietly, making it ideal for residential spaces. The system includes smart features like I Feel Mode for personalized comfort, a sleep mode for energy savings, and a self-diagnostic function for easy maintenance. Additionally, it can be upgraded with Universal WiFi for remote control. This unit is AHRI certified and comes with a 5-year limited parts warranty for peace of mind.

You just bought your dream home, but uh oh - it doesn't have central air conditioning. No problem, you think to yourself, I'll just get one of those trendy mini split AC units to buy. But then you start googling and realize you have no idea how big of a unit you need. Should you get a 12,000 BTU unit? An 18,000 BTU unit? What does BTU even stand up for? And how many square feet will each one cool in your home? Use our mini split sizing calculator to find out. Before you drive yourself crazy trying to figure it all out, take a deep breath. Here at The Trade Table, we will explain exactly how many square feet a 1-ton mini split can effectively cool so you can pick the perfect size unit for your space. 

What Is a 1-Ton Mini Split Capable Of?

A 1-ton mini split air conditioner, which provides 12,000 BTUs of cooling, can typically cool around 400 to 600 square feet of living space. The actual area depends on several factors like your home's insulation, number of windows, and climate. For the average-sized living room, bedroom, or den, a 1-ton unit should work great.

Cooling Smaller Spaces

• If you only need to cool a single room like an office, studio apartment, or small sunroom, a 1-ton mini split is ideal. It's compact, quiet, and highly efficient for smaller areas. The cooled zone can be customized by adjusting vents and fans to focus the cooling where you need it most.

Supplementing Central AC

• For homes with central AC, a 1-ton mini split can be good for adding extra cooling to spaces that your central system doesn't reach well like an attic or garage conversion. It can also help lower energy bills since you're only cooling the areas you need. The mini-split runs independently from your central AC so you have complete control over which zones are being conditioned.

Spot Cooling Open Floor Plans

• In homes with open floor plans, a 1-ton mini split may be enough to spot cool the areas where you spend the most time like the living room or kitchen. You can run it when the central AC isn't needed to avoid cooling the entire space. The fan and vents direct the chilled air to the spots you want while still maintaining an open feel. For the best results, choose a model with strong airflow that's designed for larger rooms.

Factors That Determine Square Footage Cooled

The size of the area your mini split can cool depends on several key factors. Let’s take a look at the main things that determine how many square feet a 1-ton mini split AC can effectively cool.

BTU Rating

• The higher the BTU rating, the more cooling power the unit has. A 1-ton mini split AC typically has a BTU rating between 9,000 to 12,000 BTUs. The exact BTU number depends on the specific model. A higher BTU rating means it can cool a larger space. If the BTU rating is on the lower end of the range, the unit may only be suitable for a small apartment or bedroom. If it’s on the higher end, it could potentially handle an open-concept living area.

Room Size

• The size of the room you want to cool is one of the most important factors. As a very general rule of thumb, a 1-ton mini split can cool 300 to 500 square feet. However, the actual square footage depends on other elements like insulation, number of windows, and ceiling height. A smaller, well-insulated space may be fine, while a larger room with vaulted ceilings may require a unit with more power. It’s best to consider the room dimensions, layout and features to determine if a 1-ton unit can properly cool the area.

Weather and Climate

• The climate you live in also impacts the mini-split’s performance. In hot and humid weather, it will have to work harder to cool the space. If you live in an area with very high summer temperatures, a 1-ton unit may struggle to keep up. On the other hand, in mild weather, a 1-ton mini split should have no problem cooling 300-500 square feet. Consider your location’s average high temperatures in the summer to determine if a 1-ton AC can meet your needs.

Insulation and Sealing

• How well insulated and sealed the room is plays a significant role in the mini split’s effectiveness. If there are any air leaks, drafts, or lack of insulation, the unit will have to run more often to maintain the set temperature. Make sure windows and doors are properly sealed, and add weatherstripping if needed. Increase attic insulation to at least R-30. The better insulated the space is, the easier it will be for a 1-ton mini split to cool.

How Many Square Feet a 1 Ton Mini Split Can Cool

A 1-ton mini split air conditioner can typically cool 350 to 400 square feet. The exact number depends on several factors like the insulation of your space, the number of windows, the indoor temperature you want to maintain, and outdoor temperatures in your area.

Insulation and Windows

• The better insulated your space is, the more efficient a 1-ton unit will be. Things like attic insulation, weatherstripping around doors and windows, and dual-pane windows help contain the cooled air in your space. More windows, especially single-pane, will make the AC work harder to overcome the heat gain.

Indoor Temperature

• The lower you set the temperature, the more the 1-ton mini split will have to run to reach and maintain that temp. Setting it around 72-74 F is a good balance of comfort and efficiency. Much lower than 70 F and the unit may struggle to keep up, especially on very hot days.

Outdoor Temperatures

• The warmer the weather is outside, the more the AC has to work to pump heat out of your space. If you live in an area with many days over 95 F in the summer, a 1-ton unit may have trouble keeping a typical-sized room comfortably cool, especially if it's not well-insulated. It may be better to consider a larger size, like 1.5 or 2 tons.

Other Tips

• Place the indoor unit in the center of the space for the best circulation. Make sure furniture, curtains, and other objects are not blocking the airflow.

• Consider using a programmable thermostat to raise the temperature a few degrees when you're away from home or sleeping. This can significantly improve the efficiency of a 1-ton mini split.

• If the 1-ton unit is struggling to cool your space adequately, it may need to be serviced. Dirty filters and coils reduce airflow and efficiency. It's a good idea to have a technician check it over once a year or so to ensure it's running optimally.

How Many Square Feet Does a 1-Ton Mini Split Cool?

So there you have it! Now you know that a 1-ton mini split AC unit can typically cool between 300 and 600 square feet of space. This range depends on factors like how well-insulated your rooms are, how much direct sunlight they get, and how high your ceilings are. The bottom line is that a single-ton unit works great for a studio apartment, guest house, or addition. If you need to cool a larger home, you may need to install multiple units or opt for a larger capacity 2-3 ton central air conditioner. Either way, with this guide you're equipped to figure out the right cooling capacity for your space. Hope this helps you stay cool all summer long in your perfectly climate-controlled rooms!

Do You Need a Permit to Install a Mini Split Air Conditioner?

The answer may vary depending on your location, so it's best to check with your local municipality first. You will need a permit to install any air conditioning unit that affects your home's electrical or structural integrity.

Mini Split System Installation May Require a Building Permit 

That includes mini-split systems because they require the installation of external components like an outdoor condenser and wiring connection between the indoor and outdoor units. Sometimes, you may also need a building permit if you make any significant changes to your home's structure.

If you need to get a permit, make sure that the installer has all the necessary paperwork before starting the job so that local building departments can approve it. Always remember to check with your local municipality first, as this will ensure that you'll have everything covered and be able to install your mini split safely and legally.

What Permit Is Needed for a Mini-Split Install?

This can mean a few different things depending on where you're located. A general rule of thumb is that the process is pretty much the same if you live in the US. Typically, you'll need an electrical permit – basically, one that allows for changes to the electrical wiring in your home. Depending on your specific circumstances and where you live, this permit usually covers ventilation and air-conditioning work. It's important to note that these permits may be issued through different organizations depending on where you live – for example, in some states, it may be the local city council or municipality, while in others, it could be an HVAC specialist.

Professional Assistance May Be Required

Finally, it's worth mentioning that a licensed electrician or air conditioning contractor must often be present when applying for the permit to answer any questions and provide any additional information or documents as required by the local authority. This way, they can ensure your installation is done safely and up to code!

Do You Need to Pull the Permit for a Mini Split

You might wonder whether it's worth the time and effort to pull a permit yourself or just leave it up to the professionals. There are a few things to consider here, such as your local building regulations, HVAC license requirements, and insurance liability.

Consulting an HVAC Professional

It's ultimately best to consult with a licensed professional to determine if you'll need a permit to install your mini-split air conditioner. A licensed contractor can guide you on whether or not you need a permit, as well as information on your local building codes and applicable HVAC laws that may pertain to your project.

In addition, they will be aware of any additional insurance requirements that may apply due to the complexity of the installation process. They will also be able to advise you on any potential risks associated with not obtaining the proper permits before starting work.

Why is a Building Permit Needed to Install a Mini-Split?

The fact is that mini-split system installs have more complex requirements than other types of air conditioners. The installation process involves special wiring and structural modifications, and most cities require you to get a building permit to install one.

Here are some reasons why:

Safety

• Mini-splits must be wired up correctly to run efficiently and safely. A licensed electrician can ensure the safe installation of the system wiring. 

Energy efficiency

• Because the systems are installed differently than other AC units, they require specific mounting brackets that allow the system to operate more efficiently regarding energy use. 
• Professional HVAC tech knows how to size a mini split. You can size a mini split like a pro using our mini split calculator. 

Structural modifications

• Installing certain mini-split types could involve cutting into walls or floors and require ductwork or other structural modifications depending on the setup. A building permit ensures that these modifications are done correctly for the system to work properly and safely.

Installing Mini Split Without Permit

Installing a mini-split system without obtaining the proper permits can lead to several potential issues. In many jurisdictions, permits for HVAC installations, including mini-splits, are required to ensure that the work complies with local building codes and safety standards. Failing to obtain a permit can result in fines, issues with insurance coverage, and complications when selling your home, as unpermitted work can be flagged during inspections. Additionally, installing without a permit might void warranties or guarantees provided by the installer or manufacturer.

While some homeowners may be tempted to skip the permitting process to save time or money, it's important to consider the long-term consequences. Permits not only help ensure the installation is done safely and correctly, but they also protect your investment and provide peace of mind. If you're unsure about the requirements in your area, it's advisable to consult with a licensed HVAC contractor or your local building department to determine what permits are needed before proceeding with the installation.

Consider Local Regulations When Deciding Whether to Get a Permit

Ultimately, the decision to get a permit or not should be based on your local regulations. Permit regulations vary from place to place and can span from no permit to an extensive screening process. However, getting the permit for your mini-split installation ensures that you comply with all local regulations and may even lower your homeowner's insurance premium.

Do I Need A Permit To Install A Mini Split In Florida?

In Florida, you generally need a permit to install a mini-split system. The state's building codes require permits for significant HVAC work, including mini-split installations, to ensure safety and building standards compliance. Failing to obtain a permit can lead to fines, issues with home insurance, and complications when selling your home, as unpermitted work may be flagged during inspections. 

Do I Need A Permit To Install A Mini Split In California?

Yes, you typically need a permit to install a mini-split system in California. California’s building codes require that HVAC installations, including mini-splits, comply with safety and energy efficiency standards enforced through the permitting process. Installing a mini-split without a permit can result in fines, difficulties with home insurance claims, and potential issues during home inspections if you decide to sell the property. To ensure the installation meets all legal requirements and avoids future complications, it's advisable to contact your local building department or work with a licensed HVAC contractor to obtain the necessary permits before beginning the installation.

Do I Need A Permit To Install A Mini Split In Massachusetts?

Yes, you generally need a permit to install a mini-split system in Massachusetts. The state's building codes require permits for HVAC installations, including mini-splits, to ensure the work meets safety, building, and energy efficiency standards. Installing a mini-split without a permit can lead to fines, issues with home insurance, and potential problems during property sales if the unpermitted work is discovered during inspections. 

Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Ton Mini Split

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Ton Mini Split:

How Many BTU Is A 1 Ton Mini Split

A 1 Ton Mini Split typically provides 12,000 BTUs of cooling capacity. This is enough to handle small to medium spaces efficiently. It's a common size for homes or small offices.

How Many Amps Does A 1 Ton Mini Split Use

A 1 Ton Mini Split generally uses around 10 to 15 amps. The exact number depends on the model and electrical setup. It's important to ensure proper electrical capacity.

How Much Does A 1 Ton Mini Split Cost

The cost of a 1 Ton Mini Split ranges from $600 to $1,500, depending on the brand and features. Installation is a separate cost. Prices can vary with promotions or local deals.

How Many Watts Does A 1 Ton Mini Split Use

A 1 Ton Mini Split typically uses around 900 to 1,500 watts. It depends on the specific model and usage. This makes it a relatively efficient option for cooling.

What Size Breaker For 1 Ton Mini Split

A 1 Ton Mini Split usually requires a 15-amp breaker. This ensures safe operation without overloading your system. Always consult an electrician for proper setup.

What Is A 1 Ton Mini Split

A 1 Ton Mini Split is a compact air conditioning unit designed for small to medium spaces. It offers efficient cooling without needing ductwork. It's popular for both homes and offices.

How Much Does It Cost To Install A 1 Ton Mini Split

The installation cost for a 1 Ton Mini Split ranges from $500 to $2,000. This depends on the complexity of the installation and local rates. Professional installation is usually recommended.

How To Install A 1 Ton Mini Split

Installing a 1 Ton Mini Split involves mounting the indoor and outdoor units and connecting electrical and refrigerant lines. It requires some technical skill, so hiring a professional is best. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.

How Much Freon Does A 1 Ton Mini Split Take

A 1 Ton Mini Split typically needs about 2 to 3 pounds of refrigerant (Freon). The exact amount can vary depending on the length of the refrigerant lines. Always consult the unit’s manual or a professional for accurate information.

Where To Buy A 1 Ton Mini Split

You can buy a 1 Ton Mini Split at The Trade Table.