< Back to Blog

How Many Mini-Splits Can Run on One Compressor?

man relaxing on couch while his air handler runs above him

Ductless mini splits are highly versatile HVAC systems rising in popularity across Kansas City, Missouri. Known for their simple construction and minimally invasive installation, a mini-split can transform your home and increase your energy savings.

At Top-Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we’re experts in all things mini split. That’s why we’ve compiled all the information you need to know to answer the question, “How many mini-splits can run on one compressor?”

Read on to learn more!

Ductless 101: Understanding Your Mini Split?

A ductless mini split is an HVAC system that offers dual heating and cooling capabilities. As its name suggests, it differs from traditional HVAC equipment in that it doesn’t use ductwork to distribute air throughout your home.

Ductless systems consist of three simple components – an outdoor unit, an indoor unit, and a conduit that connects the two. The outdoor unit installed by an exterior wall houses the compressor, while the conduit contains the refrigerant lines, condensate drain, and power cable or electrical wiring.

The system works similar to a heat pump, by pumping refrigerant through the lines from the compressor to one or more indoor units, called air handlers, which are mounted to your wall or ceiling. Meanwhile, the air handlers suck indoor air into the evaporator coil. Here, the air is either cooled using the refrigerant or heated, before being blown back into your interior space.

A ductless mini split heat pump is ideal for a home that either doesn’t have ductwork, and therefore can’t support more traditional equipment such as an air conditioner or furnace, or rooms with hard-to-regulate temperatures.

Ideal new mini split system installation locations include:

  • Attics
  • New additions and wings
  • Remodeled rooms
  • Sunrooms
  • Basements
  • Areas in which individual family members prefer different temperatures

One Compressor For All Your Heating & Cooling Needs

Consisting of a similar combination of indoor and outdoor units, ductless systems are highly versatile. You can design a custom configuration that works for the unique heating and cooling needs of your Kansas City home. But exactly how many air handlers can run with one compressor?

Multiple air handlers can run throughout different rooms or zones of your home, all while being connected to a singular outdoor compressor. Obviously, you don’t want to compete with any existing HVAC system that you may run simultaneously with your mini split, or place units too close together and use an unnecessary amount of energy. That’s why it’s important to consult with a professional HVAC contractor, such as a team member from Top-Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing.

In general, the number of indoor units connected to your exterior unit will depend on the system’s capacity, the size of your units, the length of your refrigerant lines, the size of your home, and other related factors. On average, a typical compressor can support up to eight indoor mini-split units.

Advantages of Ductless Mini Split Installation

Ductless mini split systems offer a wealth of benefits, including:

  • Increased Energy Efficiency: Even the most well-maintained ductwork loses small amounts of air as your HVAC systems blow through it. Since a mini split doesn’t rely on ductwork, you decrease your energy consumption by up to 30 percent according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
  • Reduced Utility Bills: Higher energy efficiency means you’re systems are using less energy overall. As a result, you’ll notice increased energy savings and more manageable utility bills over time.
  • Efficient and Consistent Heating & Cooling: Say goodbye to drafty rooms and cold spots. Providing both hot and cool air, ductless equipment brings consistency to your home, ensuring you achieve your desired temperature in every space.
  • Low Noise Levels: A ductless system is extremely quiet because the loudest unit – the compressor – is housed outside. This greatly reduces the amount of background noise from HVAC equipment in your home that can be distracting.

Call Top-Notch Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing to learn more about how a mini split can elevate the comfort of your Kansas City home.

Choose Professional Mini Split System Services

Mini Split Installation

With so many great qualities and simple construction, DIY mini split installation may seem like a great choice for your home. While we agree that every Kansas home will benefit from a mini split installation, our knowledgeable team at Top-Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing recommends taking advantage of our affordable and professional mini split install service, so the job gets done quickly and correctly the first time.

Before our quality installation process even begins, our HVAC technicians can also assist you in ductless system selection and design, so you get the right size, type, and number of air handlers perfect for your home. We only offer equipment from the top mini split brands and manufacturers, such as Samsung ductless systems and Mitsubishi mini splits.

Mini Split Repair

Like any HVAC equipment, your ductless system will inevitably experience an operational issue or even a system-wide breakdown. Luckily, our skilled technicians are well-versed in all aspects of mini splits and can provide swift diagnosis and repair services.

In the rare case that ductless mini split repair is not an option, we will also assist you with fast replacement solutions so you experience minimal disruptions in your heating and cooling.

Choose Top-Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for ductless services you can trust. Call us today for emergency repair services!

Contact Top-Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing Today!

With more than 30 years of HVAC industry experience under our belts, Top-Notch Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing is the region’s #1 choice for quality ductless system solutions. We’re equipped to install, repair, and help design your unique ductless mini split system. As a locally owned company, we take pride in ensuring the safety and satisfaction of our neighbors in Johnson County, Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, and Kansas City, Mo. Contact us to schedule your ductless mini split install job today.