Mini Split for 750 Sq Ft

How Much BTU Do I Need for 750 sq ft?

To properly size a mini split for 750 square feet, you will need to determine the appropriate BTU rating. BTU stands for British Thermal Unit and measures the amount of energy required to heat or cool one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.

For 750 square feet, you will want a unit with at least 9,000 BTUs to effectively cool the space. However, there are a few factors to consider:

1. Room Layout and Insulation: An open floor plan with vaulted ceilings will require more BTUs than a space divided into multiple rooms. The level of insulation also impacts the required BTU. More insulation means fewer BTUs are needed.

2. Number of Windows or Doors: More windows and doors result in greater heat/cool loss, necessitating a higher BTU unit.

3. Occupancy: The more people occupying the space regularly, the higher the BTU should be. Body heat and activity generate warmth requiring greater cooling capacity.

4. Local Climate: Spaces in hotter climates will require more BTUs for cooling than spaces in milder weather.

5. Usage: Spaces used often as living rooms or bedrooms will require higher BTU than spaces used occasionally like storage rooms.

6. Mini-Split Sizing Calculator: Consider using a mini-split sizing calculator to find the perfect size mini-split for your needs!

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Recommended Mini Split Sizes for 750 Sq Ft Homes

For a 750-square-foot home, we recommend a mini-split system with a capacity between 18,000 to 24,000 BTU for optimal heating and cooling.

Recommended Sizes

• A 1.5-ton (18,000 BTU) or 2-ton (24,000 BTU) unit should suit a small home of this size well. A 1-ton (12,000 BTU) mini split may struggle to maintain the desired temperature during extreme weather, while a 3-ton (36,000 BTU) system is too large and will short cycle, reducing efficiency and possibly humidity control.

Location Considerations

• The number of rooms and layout of your home also plays a role in choosing the right size. A mini split with multiple air handlers, called a multi-zone system, may be needed for a two-story house or one with an open floor plan. For the best coverage, place the outdoor unit in a central location, near the middle of the house. The air handlers should be in the rooms where you spend the most time.

Energy Efficiency

• In addition to capacity, consider the mini split's energy efficiency rating, like the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). A higher SEER, such as 18 or more, means lower energy usage and bills. An ENERGY STAR® rated unit meets strict efficiency guidelines set by the EPA.

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Single Zone vs Multi Zone Mini Splits: Which Is Better for 750 Sq Ft?

For a space of 750 square feet, you have two good options for a mini-split system: a single-zone or a multi-zone system. Each has its pros and cons to consider based on your needs.

A single zone mini split system utilizes one outdoor unit connected to one indoor unit to control the temperature in your entire 750 sq ft space. This is typically the more affordable and energy-efficient option for smaller areas. However, it may not provide the level of control or flexibility you desire. A single temperature setting will be applied to the entirety of your space.

Multi-Zone Mini Split

On the other hand, a multi-zone mini-split system uses one outdoor unit connected to multiple indoor units, each controlling the temperature of its zone. This allows you to set different temperatures for separate areas of your space for maximum comfort. For example, you may want it cooler in your bedroom and warmer in your living room. Multi-zone systems do tend to cost more upfront and use slightly more energy.

For a 750-square-foot space, a two-zone or three-zone multi-split system would work well to divide the area into separate temperature-controlled zones. A two-zone system could separate the space into a bedroom zone and a living area zone. A three-zone system could further split the living area into two zones, for example, a living room zone and a dining/kitchen zone.

Ductless Mini Split Brands and Models for Small Homes

Cooling and Heating Capacity

• For a home of this size, a ductless mini split with a 12,000 to 18,000 BTU cooling capacity and a 10,000 to 15,000 BTU heating capacity should be sufficient for most small homes. Models in this range can typically cool or heat 350 to 700 square feet. Check the specifications of any models you’re interested in to ensure the capacity will properly meet the needs of your specific home.

Number of Zones

• A single-zone ductless mini split with one indoor unit should adequately heat and cool a small home. However, multiple zones with two or more indoor units may provide more even temperature control throughout the home. Multiple zones also allow you to control the temperature in each zone separately.

Energy Efficiency

• Look for ductless mini splits with a high seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) of 18 or above and a high heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF) of 10 or above. More efficient units will have lower operating costs over time. Energy Star-certified models must meet efficiency standards and can save between 10 to 50 percent on energy costs versus standard equipment.

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Installation and Operating Costs of Mini Splits for 750 Sq Ft

The initial purchase and installation of a mini-split system for a 750-square-foot space will vary depending on the brand, model, and contractor. On average, a unit sized appropriately for a 750-square-foot area will cost between $1,500 to $4,000. Professional installation will add another $500 to $2,000 to the total cost.

Operating Costs

• Operating a mini split to heat and cool a 750-square-foot area will cost between $30 to $150 per month, depending on your climate and energy rates. Mini-splits are very energy efficient since they only heat or cool the rooms you want. Units with a higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) and HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) rating will be more efficient, resulting in lower operating costs.

• It’s a good idea to compare the initial cost versus long-term energy savings to determine the best system for your needs. Often spending slightly more upfront for a higher efficiency unit will save you money over the lifetime of the system. Look for Energy Star-rated units with a SEER of at least 15 and HSPF of 8.5 or higher for the best efficiency.

• The operating costs can also be lowered by properly insulating your space, keeping filters clean, setting the thermostat to an efficient temperature, and choosing the appropriate size unit for your square footage. Oversizing a unit will cause it to cycle on and off frequently, reducing efficiency. Consider a multi-zone system to maximize comfort and energy savings.

What Size Mini Split Do I Need for Different Square Footage

For most homes, choosing the right size mini-split comes down to matching the unit’s BTU rating to the square footage of the space you want to heat and cool. The recommendations below provide general guidance for selecting an appropriately sized unit based on your needs.

Up to 500 square feet

• A unit with 9,000 to 12,000 BTU is typically sufficient for smaller spaces like bedrooms, home offices, and studios. These compact units are ideal for zone control and maximizing energy efficiency in intermittently occupied spaces.

500 to 800 square feet

• Mid-sized rooms like living rooms, dining rooms, and master bedrooms will require a unit with at least 12,000 to 18,000 BTU to maintain a comfortable temperature. These versatile units can also handle adjacent, open-concept spaces.

800 to 1,200 square feet

• Larger zones encompassing open-plan living spaces, great rooms, and converted basements will call for a unit with 18,000 BTU or more. Models offering 24,000 to 36,000 BTU are good options for these expansive areas, especially if the space includes high ceilings or an abundance of windows.

Over 1,200 square feet

• For the largest residential spaces like lofts, warehouses, and apartments, a unit with 30,000 BTU or more is recommended. Commercial-grade units offering 42,000 BTU and higher are capable of heating and cooling vast, open floorplans while still operating efficiently.

Calculate Your Space and Usage Needs

To determine the appropriate size mini split for your space, you first need to calculate the square footage of the area you want to heat and cool. Measure the length and width of each room and multiply to get the total square feet. Add up the square footage of all rooms that will utilize the mini split to get the overall square footage.

Next, consider how the space is used. Areas like living rooms where people gather typically require more cooling and heating than a storage room. Likewise, rooms exposed to direct sunlight through windows will need greater capacity. Think about the number of people regularly in the space and any heat-generating electronics like computers or TVs. All of these factors impact the BTU rating needed.

Mini Split Sizing Rule of Thumb

• 1 ton (12,000 BTU) for every 400-600 square feet

• 1.5 ton (18,000 BTU) for every 700-900 square feet

• 2 tons (24,000 BTU) for every 1,000-1,200 square feet

• 2.5 tons (30,000 BTU) for every 1,300-1,500 square feet

If you'd like to quickly calculate what your recommended size mini split is for your space try using our mini-split sizing calculator!