Mini Split vs. Heat Pump: Understanding Their Differences (& Similarities)

The average person might use the terms “mini split” and “heat pump” interchangeably, but these units are two distinct types of systems. While you can replace a traditional furnace with either, it’s important to understand how they differ. 

Learning the distinct features of heat pumps and mini split systems will help you choose the best unit for your home.

How Do Heat Pumps Work?

A heat pump is a unit that connects to the ductwork in your home. While this might make the unit seem similar to a traditional furnace, it differs in the creation of heat. Instead of burning wood, natural gas, or another fuel, a heat pump uses electricity to transfer heat. 

In the winter, it draws heat from outside and transfers it into your living spaces. In the summer, the cooling function reverses this process by taking heat from your living spaces and replacing it with cooled air.

What Are the Basics of a Mini Split?

A mini split system is similar to a heat pump in how it functions. The mini split also heats or cools a home by transferring heat between indoor living spaces and the outside environment. This process eliminates the need to burn fuel, making either option advantageous over traditional furnaces.

Mini splits differ from heat pumps in size and configuration. While a standard heat pump is a larger unit that works as a central HVAC system, mini splits consist of small air handlers that connect to an outdoor condenser unit. They don’t hook up to the ductwork, meaning you can choose almost any position for the air handler.

How Do These Systems Change Climate Control in Your Home?

While mini split systems use heat pump technology, all heat pumps are not mini split systems. The different configurations of these devices change how they heat or cool your home. Consider the following factors when choosing between a heat pump and a mini split.

Energy Efficiency

If you have a small home or a shotgun-style layout, a small mini split can thoroughly heat or cool your home for less. Since the unit is smaller, it will use less energy without compromising comfort. 

In a larger home or a house with multiple rooms, one mini split won’t heat or cool your home properly. In this case, installing a larger heat pump that connects to your ductwork offers more efficient performance.

Upfront Installation

In a small home that requires only one air handler, a mini split installation is fast and simple. Your HVAC technician will install the outdoor compressor and mount the air handler in a predetermined location. This process becomes more complicated in a larger home with separate air handlers to service different areas.

It makes more sense to install a standard heat pump in a larger home. The technician will install a single unit in your home and connect it to an outdoor condenser. Since the indoor unit connects to your ducts, the HVAC technician won’t have to install multiple air handlers.

Temperature Zones

An important similarity between a standard heat pump and a furnace is in how it delivers treated air. Since both systems use your home’s ductwork, you won’t notice a change in the delivery of treated air. All parts of your home will receive equal shares of heated or cooled air.

If you like the idea of creating distinct temperature zones throughout your home, a mini split system is the better option. You can set up a different zone in each area by installing separate air handlers. Keep your kitchen cooler to combat humidity during meal prep while maintaining a warmer temperature in your living room or home office. 

Climate Control Method

A standard heat pump connects directly to your thermostat. You can use a smart thermostat to manage your indoor temperature. It’s easy to program the heat pump or toggle its operation by connecting the smart thermostat to a mobile app. This provides more precise control over energy usage.

Conversely, each mini split comes with its own remote control. You can use the remote control to operate the unit without interfering with the operation of other air handlers in your home. While this means a main thermostat won’t manage the operation of the air handlers, you can still monitor the temperature in each climate zone with thermostats.

Choose the Best System for Your Heating Needs

When it’s time to replace your current heating system, follow this guide to determine which option will best meet your needs. Your HVAC technician can also help you decide which unit will most efficiently heat your home. Making an informed decision will ensure your replacement unit heats your home reliably and effectively.

Need help with installing a new heat pump or mini-split system? Contact Atlantic Fuels today to learn more.