12000 BTU Mini Split

The Best 12000 BTU Mini Splits

Here are some of the best 12000 BTU Mini Splits on The Trade Table! 

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

The Gree Sapphire is an ultra high-efficiency ductless mini-split system. It features a quiet, unobtrusive design with advanced performance and an industry-leading SEER in cooling and HSPF in heating. It delivers up to 90% heating capacity even in extreme cold down to -22°F. A wireless remote controller with a timer is included.

How Many Amps Does A 12000 BTU Mini Split Use

A 12000 BTU Mini Split uses approximately 3,516.85 watts. When operating on a 120-volt circuit, this translates to about 29.31 amps. These values are based on standard conversion rates and assumptions.

How Many Square Feet Will A 12K Mini Split Cool

A 12000 BTU Mini Split is generally effective in cooling areas up to 500 square feet, ideal for small to medium-sized rooms.

How Much Space Can a 12K BTU Mini Split Cover?

A 12000 BTU mini split can typically cover spaces up to 500 square feet. The actual coverage depends on several factors:

Room layout

• An open-concept space may require more BTUs than separate, closed-off rooms. Irregularly shaped spaces and rooms with vaulted ceilings also need increased capacity.

Insulation

• Well-insulated rooms stay cooler easily, so they may need a unit with lower BTUs. Poorly insulated spaces require more power to reach the desired temperature.

The number of rooms

• A 12,000 BTU unit can usually handle 3-4 average-sized rooms. For cooling multiple rooms, choose a model with zoning features or install multiple units.

Occupancy

• Spaces with more people, electronics, and heat-generating appliances need higher BTU units.

Desired temperature

• Lowering the thermostat setting by 10 degrees Fahrenheit can increase power needs by up to 50%.

Location

• Wall units need higher BTUs in warmer climates, especially in attics or upper-floor rooms. Ceiling cassette units positioned centrally in the space may require lower BTUs.

What Size Wire For 12000 BTU Mini Split System

For a 12000 BTU Mini Split requiring around 15 to 20 amps, a 14-gauge wire will do the trick for short connections. If your setup stretches a bit further, you'll want to upgrade to a 12-gauge wire to keep everything running smoothly. Always check the unit's manual and local codes for precise requirements.

How Much Is A 12000 Mini Split

The price range for a complete 12000 BTU Mini Split system, including the outdoor unit and an indoor air handler, typically costs $600 and $2,000. If you want to purchase an air handler only as a replacement or part of a multi-zone system, the cost can range from $200 to $800, depending on the unit features and the brand. Remember, these prices don't include installation, which can significantly vary based on your specific situation and location.

What Size Breaker For Mini Split AC 12000 BTU

For a 12000 BTU Mini Split, a 20-amp circuit breaker is usually the go-to choice, providing a safe buffer for the system's 15 to 20 amp current draw. It's crucial to check the unit's installation manual and adhere to local electrical regulations for precise requirements.

How Many Tons Is A 12000 BTU Mini Split

A 12000 BTU Mini Split is classified as a 1-ton unit, based on the HVAC industry's standard conversion where 1 ton equals 12,000 BTUs of cooling capacity per hour. This measurement helps in accurately sizing air conditioning systems to match the cooling needs of a space.

Choosing the Right 12000 BTU Mini Split for Your Needs

When choosing a 12000 BTU mini split, consider your heating and cooling needs, energy efficiency, extra features like timers or air filtration, and installation requirements. One of the best ways to ensure you're selecting the right size unit is by using a Mini Split Sizing Calculator, which can determine if you need less than 12000 BTU or if you require a unit with more power.

Key Features of a 12000 BTU Ductless Air Conditioner

Several key features make this unit ideal for zone control and supplemental heating/cooling:

Precise Temperature Control

• With a 12,000 BTU mini split, you can precisely control the temperature in the room. Most units come with a wireless remote that allows you to set the exact temperature you want. The mini split will heat or cool to reach that set point. Some models also have additional features like timers, sleep modes, and fan speed control.

Energy Efficient

• Mini split heat pumps are extremely energy efficient since they only heat or cool the rooms you want. They can reduce energy usage by up to 30% compared to central HVAC systems. Their inverter technology only uses the precise amount of energy needed to reach the set temperature. When the room reaches the right temperature, the unit goes into energy-saving standby mode.

Zoning Capabilities

• A 12,000 BTU mini split gives you the ability to control the temperature in separate zones. You can install one unit in each room or area you want to control individually. This is ideal if you want to cool the bedrooms at night but not the living room, or heat the office but not the basement. Zoning allows maximum comfort in the spaces you use the most.

Quiet Operation

• Mini split systems are designed to operate very quietly. The inverter technology allows the unit to slowly ramp up to the needed speed to reach the set temperature, rather than turning on and off abruptly like a central HVAC system. The outdoor compressor unit also has sound-dampening features to minimize noise outside. For the most comfortable indoor environment, choose a model with the lowest decibel rating, below 45 dB.

Where to Buy 12000 BTU Mini Split

When it comes to buying a 12000 BTU Mini Split, you have the flexibility to select from several trusted sources. Ensure you can find the ideal 2000 BTU Mini Split for your requirements. However, the top choice is The Trade Table, the premier home store for HVAC products.

How Many Amps Does a 12,000 BTU Mini Split Use

Depending on the specific unit and operating conditions, a 12000 BTU mini split will likely draw between 15 to 25 amps. BTU stands for British Thermal Unit and measures how much energy is required to heat or cool a space. The higher the BTU rating, the larger the area a unit can efficiently heat or cool.

For a 12000 BTU unit, you'll want to make sure your home's electrical system can handle the increased power draw. Most homes have 200 amp service, but you'll want to check your breaker panel to confirm. It's best if the mini split can be on its dedicated circuit to avoid overloading existing circuits in your home.

Other Factors Impacting Amperage 

The actual amperage a 12000 BTU mini split uses will vary depending on whether it's heating, cooling, or in standby mode. It will draw the most power when the compressor runs in either heating or cooling mode. As a rough estimate, you can expect it to pull around 20 amps during peak operation.

Other factors like the unit's efficiency rating (SEER), the thermostat setting, and the temperature difference between the indoors and outdoors will also affect how many amps are used. The higher the SEER, the more efficient the unit is, so it may draw slightly less power for the same amount of heating or cooling.

Typical Voltage for 12000 BTU Mini Split AC Units

A 12000 BTU mini split AC unit typically requires a 220-240 volt power supply. The exact amperage will depend on the specific model, but most draw between 15 to 20 amps.

You'll need to check your circuit breaker panel to determine if your home's electrical system can handle the load. Look for an open double pole breaker - the type used for 240V circuits. Ensure the open breaker's amperage rating is at least the same or higher than your AC unit's requirements. If not, you may need an electrician to install a new higher-amperage breaker.

Calculating Amps for a 12000 BTU Mini Split

To determine the amperage for a 12000 BTU mini split, you'll need to check the specifications for your specific AC unit. A 12000 BTU mini split will draw between 10 to 16 amps to operate properly. The actual amperage will depend on the unit's voltage, either 115V or 230V.

115V 12,000 BTU mini split

• It will draw around 15 amps when the compressor first kicks on. The amperage will decrease to around 10-12 amps once the unit starts running steadily.
• You'll want a dedicated 15-amp circuit to power the unit. A standard wall outlet should work fine, but avoid having other high-demand appliances on the same circuit.
• The higher the amperage rating, the more power the circuit can handle. A 15-amp circuit can supply 1,800 watts (15 amps x 120 volts = 1,800 watts), which is suitable for a 12,000 BTU AC unit.

230V 12000 BTU mini split

• It will draw 6-8 amps to operate. 230V units require less amperage than 115V units to produce the same amount of cooling.
• You'll need a special 230V outlet installed by an electrician to power the unit. Standard wall outlets in homes provide 115V power.
• A dedicated 10-amp, 230V circuit should work well for a 12000 BTU mini split. This can provide up to 2,300 watts (10 amps x 230 volts = 2,300 watts) of power, which is plenty for this size AC unit.

Recommended Circuit Breaker Size for a 12000 BTU Mini Split

A 12000 BTU mini split air conditioner typically requires a dedicated 20 amp circuit breaker for safe operation. This mini split AC unit draws between 12 to 16 amps when running, so a 20 amp breaker will provide enough overload protection.

Why a 20 Amp Breaker is Recommended

A circuit breaker slightly larger than the appliance's actual amp draw is always recommended. This provides some buffer in case of power surges and ensures the breaker does not trip frequently. A 15-amp breaker may not provide enough buffer for a 12000 BTU mini split and could often trip, causing the unit to shut off.

Choosing the Correct Wire Gage

For a 12,000 BTU mini split installation, a 12 gauge wire is recommended in addition to a 20 amp breaker. This wire is rated to handle 20 amps and will provide enough power to the outdoor compressor and indoor air handler units. Smaller wire gauges, like 14 gauge, are only rated for 15 amps and may not adequately power a mini-split of this size.

Following the Manufacturer's Specifications

The best way to determine the proper breaker size and wire gauge for your specific 12,000 BTU mini split model is to follow the recommendations in the owner's manual. The manufacturer has tested the unit and provided the specifications that allow it to run most efficiently. Installing an improperly sized breaker or wire can void the warranty and damage the mini split.