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Comparing Mini Split vs. Window Units: Pros and Cons

mini-split-vs.-window-unit

When it comes to cooling a room or a home during hot summer months, many homeowners are often confused about which type of air conditioning system to use: mini-split and window units. Both of these cooling options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the decision to choose one over the other can be influenced by several factors, including the size of the room, installation cost, and energy efficiency. In this blog post, we will compare mini-split vs. window units and highlight their pros and cons, giving you a better idea of which one will be the best fit for your needs.

Mini Split AC Units

Mini-split air conditioners are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners. They consist of two main components: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The indoor unit is mounted on the wall or ceiling, while the outdoor unit is installed outside the house. Mini-split AC units are ideal for cooling individual rooms or multiple rooms, and they are relatively easy to install. These systems use a refrigerant to cool the air and move it throughout the house. You can connect multiple indoor units to one outdoor unit for a whole home solution or you can connect one indoor unit to an outdoor unit for a single space solution.

Window AC Units

Window AC units are the most common type of air conditioning units for residential use. They are designed to be mounted on a windowsill, which makes them easy to install. Window AC units are also ideal for cooling single rooms and small apartments. They have a simple design and are relatively affordable compared to other AC units. Window AC units use a refrigerant to cool the air, and they can be controlled using a thermostat or a remote control.

Factors to Consider when Choosing Between Mini Split and Window Units

When choosing between mini-split and window units, several factors come into play. These factors include the size of the room, installation cost, energy efficiency, and overall functionality. Let's take a closer look at each of these factors.

Room Size

Perhaps the most critical factor to consider when choosing between mini-split and window units is the size of the room you want to cool. Window units are typically designed to cool a single room or a small apartment, while mini-split units can be used to cool multiple rooms or even an entire house. If you have a large room or if you want to cool multiple rooms, you should consider installing a mini-split unit.

Installation Cost

Installation cost is another factor to consider when choosing between mini-split and window units. Mini-split units are generally more expensive than window units, and the installation process can be more complicated. A professional HVAC technician will likely need to install the unit, which can add to the overall cost. In contrast, window units are relatively affordable, and they can be easily installed by homeowners. One important factor to consider is the value you add to your home when you install mini splits. Since it is a permanent air conditioning solution, that would be considered as a pro when selling the house. This benefit offsets the higher installation costs that come with mini splits. 

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is an essential factor to consider, especially if you plan to use your AC unit frequently. Mini-split units are generally more energy-efficient than window units because they use inverter technology to regulate the amount of power used to cool the air. In contrast, window units are less energy-efficient because they have a fixed compressor speed that cannot be adjusted.

Overall Functionality

Finally, you should also consider the overall functionality of mini-split and window units. Mini-split units are generally more versatile than window units because they can be used to cool and heat multiple rooms and have remote controls for temperature adjustment. Window units, on the other hand, are generally less versatile and may not have advanced features such as remote control.

Pros and Cons of Mini Split AC Units

Pros

  • Adds value to a property
  • Energy-efficient
  • Can cool and heat multiple rooms
  • Can be controlled with a remote control
  • Quiet operation
  • Sleek design

Cons

  • More expensive than window units
  • Installation can be more complicated
  • May require a professional to install

Pros and Cons of Window AC Units

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Easy to install
  • Ideal for single rooms or small apartments
  • Can be controlled using a thermostat or a remote control

Cons

  • Less energy-efficient than mini-split units
  • Must reinstall each summer season
  • Can't use window after installation
  • Only cooling option
  • Louder than mini-split units
  • Generally less controls than mini splits

Conclusion

Choosing between mini-split and window units can be a challenging decision, but ultimately your choice will depend on your cooling needs, your budget, and your preferences. Mini-split units are ideal for cooling multiple rooms and are more energy-efficient, while window units are affordable and easy to install. By considering the factors outlined in this article and weighing the pros and cons of each unit, you can make an informed decision that will keep your home cool and comfortable during the hottest months of the year.

Browse our mini split selection online and reach out to us if you have any questions about mini splits and their benefits. 

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Mitsubishi M-Series Hyper Heat Systems


What is Mitsubishi Hyper Heat (H2i)?

Hyper heat (or Hyper-Heating (H2i)) is Mitsubishi's advanced heat pump technology (using an enhanced compressor system) that delivers heat all the way down to -18° F.

In 2007, Mitsubishi launched the residential Hyper-Heating INVERTER® (H2i). The hyper-heating feature made heat pumps a viable solution in colder climates. At the time (and even now) it was a significant advancement in heat pump technology.


What Temperature is Hyper-Heating Effective In?

Mitsubishi's Hyper-Heating INVERTER® (H2i) heats down to -5℉ without losing capacity and can heat all the way down to -18℉. Most heat pumps start to give out when the outside temperature gets down to 40℉, and they stop producing heat at 23℉.

Producing heat down to -18℉ makes the hyper heat system an option in almost every city in the US but Fairbanks, Alaska, where the average minimum temperature in the coldest months is -16.9 °F.


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Features of Mitsubishi's Hyper-Heating INVERTER® (H2i)

Higher SEER Ratings

Hyper-heating systems provide some of the highest SEER ratings you can get in a heat pump. For Mitsubishi, the SEER rating tops out at 33.1. The mini-split that does that is Mitsubishi's FS06 hyper heating system. But the range is from 33.1 (most efficient single zone) to 16 (highest load multi-zone set-up) SEER for the hyper heating systems.


Instant Hot-Start

In heating mode, Mitsubishi's Hyper-Heating compressor warms up and heats the indoor unit before the fan starts to blow air into the room. The "instant hot-start" feature ensures when the fan turns on, your system is delivering warm air. It's not necessarily "instant," but it ensures your system isn't blowing out cold air in the winter.


3D i-see Sensor®

When the 3D i-see Sensor® is enabled, your system is able to scan the room it's in for people and hot/cold spots. The infrared sensor does a thermal scan of the room, breaks it up into 752 three-dimensional zones, and measures the temperature in each zone. It's able to detect uneven temperatures in the room, see exactly where people are in a room. It continuously adjusts the temperature and airflow around the room to make sure it's as even as possible. You can also set the sensor to direct air toward or away from people in the room with its direct/indirect feature.

While this feature isn't exclusively found on the hyper-heating H2i systems, it is more common on H2i systems.


Is Mitsubishi Hyper Heating (H2i) Worth It?

If you're in a colder climate and you want to use electricity as your primary heating "fuel," definitely. The main question you should ask is, "Is this heat pump system going to be the primary source of heat for my house?" If it is, the hyper heating system will be worth it for you - especially if you're in the US.

Shop Mitsubishi M-Series Hyper Heat Systems