Where Not to Install a Ductless Mini Split

As you sip your morning coffee and glance around your living room, you realize it's time to upgrade your home's cooling and heating system. You've done your homework, and you’ve learned that ductless mini splits are an efficient, flexible, and modern solution. They offer zoned comfort, and energy savings and can be installed without the invasive ductwork that traditional systems require. You’re sold on the idea of a ductless mini split air conditioner. But before you pick up the phone to schedule an installation, there's something crucial you need to consider: where you should not install your unit.

Imagine this scenario: you've just had your brand-new ductless mini split installed, and you’re excited to feel that first rush of cool air. But as days go by, you notice that your living room still feels a bit stuffy, your kitchen seems warmer than usual, and the bedroom? Well, let’s just say you’re waking up at night either too cold or too hot. What went wrong? The truth is, the effectiveness of your ductless mini split air conditioner isn’t just about the unit itself; it’s about where it’s installed. Location matters—a lot.

Close to Heat Sources

Think back to a summer evening when you’re cooking dinner in the kitchen. The oven is baking, the stovetop is boiling, and your new ductless mini split is whirring away on the wall nearby. You might think that this placement is logical; after all, kitchens get hot, so why not have the cooling system right there? But here’s the catch: installing your ductless mini split too close to a heat source is a recipe for inefficiency.

When your ductless mini split is exposed to constant heat from an oven, stove, or even a fireplace, it’s tricked into thinking that the entire room is much warmer than it actually is. This false reading causes the unit to work overtime, trying to cool a space that doesn’t need as much cooling. This leads to higher energy bills and also wears out your system faster. You find yourself frequently adjusting the thermostat, frustrated that the room never feels quite right.

So, where should you install it instead? A cooler, more stable area away from heat sources is ideal. By choosing a location that’s not directly impacted by your kitchen’s warmth, your ductless mini split can accurately gauge the room’s temperature and operate efficiently, keeping your space comfortable without unnecessary strain on the system.

Above or Behind Large Furniture

Picture this: you’ve just set up your living room. The sofa is perfectly placed, the bookshelf is brimming with your favorite reads, and there, just above the couch, is your ductless mini split. It seems like a logical spot—it’s out of the way, and the airflow should circulate nicely, right? Unfortunately, this common mistake could be why you’re not getting the most out of your system.

When a ductless mini split is installed above or behind large furniture, such as a sofa or a bookcase, the airflow is obstructed. The cool or warm air that your AC ductless mini split works so hard to produce doesn’t get a chance to circulate properly. Instead, it gets trapped behind furniture, creating pockets of uneven temperature throughout the room. You might find that while your sofa area feels cool, the other side of the room remains uncomfortably warm. Or worse, the unit could blow directly onto the back of your neck while you’re trying to relax, causing discomfort.

To avoid this, consider positioning your ductless mini split air conditioner on a wall that allows the air to move freely throughout the room. Ideally, this should be an unobstructed area where the airflow can reach every nook and corner of the space, ensuring even temperature distribution. This thoughtful placement enhances comfort and boosts the overall efficiency of your system, making every corner of your room just right.

In Direct Sunlight

Now, let’s step into your sunroom. It’s a beautiful space filled with natural light pouring through large windows. It’s the perfect place to unwind with a book or enjoy a cup of tea. To keep this space comfortable year-round, you decide to install a ductless mini split. But before you mount it on that sun-drenched wall, pause for a moment.

Direct sunlight can be an enemy to your ductless mini split air conditioner. When your unit is exposed to the sun’s rays for extended periods, it has to work much harder to cool the space. The constant warmth from the sun can cause the unit to overheat or, at the very least, reduce its efficiency significantly. You may notice that your energy bills are creeping up, and the unit doesn’t seem to be cooling the room as effectively as you’d hoped. The sun’s relentless heat can also shorten your system’s lifespan, leading to more frequent maintenance and potential early replacement.

To avoid these issues, think about installing your ductless mini split on a shaded wall, where it’s protected from direct sunlight. If that’s not possible, consider using window treatments like blinds or curtains to shield the unit from the sun during the hottest parts of the day. By keeping your ductless mini split cool, you ensure that it works at peak efficiency, providing you with a comfortable environment without the added strain on your system.

Near Sources of Moisture

Imagine the refreshing sensation of stepping into your bathroom after a long day. The steam from a hot shower envelops the room, creating a mini spa experience. It’s natural to want this space to be as comfortable as possible, so you consider installing a ductless mini split here. After all, who wouldn’t want a perfectly climate-controlled bathroom? But before you proceed, let’s take a closer look at the potential consequences.

Moisture and ductless mini splits don’t mix well. Bathrooms and laundry rooms are often filled with high humidity levels and moisture, which can wreak havoc on your AC ductless mini split. When exposed to constant moisture, the internal components of the unit can become a breeding ground for mold and mildew. This creates a health hazard and can also cause extensive damage to the system, leading to costly repairs or even a complete replacement.

Moreover, the presence of moisture can affect the unit’s ability to operate efficiently. The evaporator coils inside your ductless mini split rely on a dry environment to function properly. When moisture builds up, it can cause these coils to freeze, resulting in reduced cooling or heating capacity and, eventually, system failure.

So, where should you install your unit if you want to avoid these issues? The best place is in a dry, well-ventilated area of your home, away from sources of moisture. If you absolutely must install a unit in a bathroom or laundry room, ensure there is adequate ventilation and consider using a unit specifically designed to handle high-humidity environments.

Over a Bed or Seating Area

Think about the last time you snuggled into bed after a long day, looking forward to a good night’s sleep. Or perhaps you’re lounging on your favorite chair, watching TV after a tiring day at work. Now imagine that cool breeze from your ductless mini split air conditioner blowing directly onto you. It might sound pleasant at first, but over time, it can become a source of discomfort.

Installing a ductless mini split directly over a bed or seating area might seem convenient, but it can lead to problems. When the unit is positioned too close to where you sleep or sit, you’re likely to experience cold drafts that disrupt your comfort. During the night, the constant flow of air could make you too cold, causing you to wake up and adjust the blankets, only to feel too warm once the airflow stops. The same goes for sitting areas—what starts as a gentle breeze can quickly become an annoying draft, making it difficult to relax.

To avoid these issues, consider placing your ductless mini split on a wall where it can distribute air evenly throughout the room without blowing directly onto you. This strategic placement ensures you can enjoy a restful sleep and comfortable seating without the discomfort of direct airflow.

In Narrow Hallways

Let’s walk through your home’s layout. As you pass through a narrow hallway, you might think this could be a convenient place to install your ductless mini split. It’s out of the way, and it seems like a good spot for maintaining airflow between rooms. But before you start drilling, let’s consider the downsides.

Narrow hallways may seem like a suitable location for a ductless mini split, but they often don’t provide enough space for the air to circulate properly. Hallways are typically confined spaces, which can limit the effectiveness of your system. The air produced by the unit can get trapped in the hallway, struggling to reach the larger rooms where it’s needed most. This not only reduces the efficiency of your AC ductless mini split but also leads to uneven temperature distribution throughout your home.

Moreover, placing a ductless mini split in a hallway can create an uncomfortable environment. The airflow might feel too strong as you walk through, creating a drafty or chilly passageway. And because the hallway is a transitional space, it’s not where you spend most of your time, making it an inefficient place for temperature control.

A better option would be to install the unit in a larger, more open area, such as a living room or a family room, where the air can flow freely and reach multiple areas of your home. This placement will maximize the efficiency of your ductless mini split, ensuring that your entire home stays comfortable without the drawbacks of a hallway installation.

Near Electronic Devices

Finally, let’s talk about another common mistake that’s easy to overlook: installing a ductless mini split near electronic devices. It’s common for your living room to be equipped with the latest gadgets—a large flat-screen TV, a surround sound system, and maybe even a gaming console. You’re thinking of mounting your ductless mini split on the wall just above your entertainment center. But here’s why you might want to reconsider.

Electronic devices generate heat, which can interfere with the operation of your ductless mini split. When the unit is installed too close to these devices, the heat they emit can cause the system’s sensors to misread the room’s temperature. As a result, your AC ductless mini split might not cool or heat the space as effectively as it should, leading to discomfort and increased energy consumption.

Additionally, the electromagnetic interference (EMI) from electronic devices can disrupt the communication between your ductless mini split’s components, causing it to malfunction or operate less efficiently. 

To ensure optimal performance, it’s best to install your ductless mini split at a safe distance from electronic devices. This placement will help your unit accurately monitor and control the room’s temperature without the interference of heat or electromagnetic signals. By choosing a location that’s free from nearby electronics, you’ll extend the life of your system and enjoy consistent, reliable comfort in your home.

Take Away

As you consider installing a ductless mini split in your home, remember that location is key to ensuring optimal performance, comfort, and efficiency. By avoiding installation near heat sources, behind large furniture, in direct sunlight, in moisture-prone areas, over beds or seating areas, in narrow hallways, and near electronic devices, you’ll maximize the benefits of your ductless mini split air conditioner.

Taking the time to carefully choose the right spot will pay off in the long run, with lower energy bills, extended system lifespan, and a more comfortable living environment. And if you’re unsure about the best placement, don’t hesitate to consult with an HVAC professional who can assess your space and recommend the ideal location for your AC ductless mini split. By making informed decisions, you can ensure that your investment in a ductless mini split provides you with years of reliable, efficient, and comfortable climate control.

Now that you’re equipped with this knowledge, it’s time to take action. Whether you’re upgrading an existing system or installing a ductless mini split for the first time, contact AC Direct and take the first step towards a more comfortable and efficient home.

FAQs

Can I install a mini split on my own?

While it’s possible to install a mini split yourself, it’s highly recommended to have a professional handle the installation. A trained technician ensures the unit is placed in the optimal location, safely and efficiently, to maximize its lifespan and performance. Additionally, not using a licensed professional could void the warranty.

What happens if I install a mini split in a poor location?

Installing a mini split in a poor location can lead to inefficiency, discomfort, and potential damage to the unit. It may not cool or heat the room effectively, resulting in higher energy bills and the need for frequent adjustments or repairs.

How do I choose the best spot for my mini split?

The best spot for a mini split is one that allows for unobstructed airflow, is free from direct sunlight, heat sources, and moisture, and isn’t too close to electronic devices. Consulting with an HVAC professional can help you determine the ideal location based on your specific home layout.