Air Handler Vs Mini Split: Which One Comes Out On Top?

When it comes to choosing a new HVAC system for your home, you’ll likely come across two main options: air handlers and mini splits. Both systems have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to understand the differences between them before making a decision.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at air handlers vs mini splits, comparing their features, benefits, and costs. We’ll also provide some tips to help you choose the right system for your home.

What is an Air Handler?

An air handler is an indoor unit that is part of a central HVAC system. It is responsible for circulating air throughout your home and controlling the temperature. Air handlers are typically installed in attics, basements, or crawl spaces.

Air handlers come in a variety of sizes and capacities, so it’s important to choose one that is right for your home. The size of the air handler will depend on the square footage of your home and the number of rooms you have.

What is a Mini Split?

A mini split is a ductless HVAC system that consists of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units. The outdoor unit is responsible for cooling or heating the refrigerant, while the indoor units circulate the air throughout your home.

Mini splits are a good option for homes that do not have ductwork or for rooms that are difficult to cool or heat with a central HVAC system. Mini splits are also more energy-efficient than central HVAC systems, which can save you money on your energy bills.

Air Handler vs Mini Split: Features

Here is a table comparing the features of air handlers and mini splits:

Air Handler vs Mini Split: Benefits

Here are some of the benefits of air handlers and mini splits:

Air Handler Benefits

• Lower cost: Air handlers are typically less expensive than mini splits.
• Centralized control: Air handlers are controlled by a central thermostat, which makes it easy to adjust the temperature in your entire home.
• Can be used with other HVAC components: Air handlers can be used with other HVAC components, such as furnaces and heat pumps.

Mini Split Benefits

• More energy-efficient: Mini splits are more energy-efficient than air handlers, which can save you money on your energy bills.
• Ductless: Mini splits do not require ductwork, which makes them a good option for homes that do not have ductwork or for rooms that are difficult to cool or heat with a central HVAC system.
• Easy to install: Mini splits are easier to install than air handlers.
• Quiet operation: Mini splits operate quietly, which makes them a good option for bedrooms and other areas where you want to minimize noise.

Air Handler vs Mini Split: Costs

The cost of an air handler or mini split will vary depending on the size and capacity of the system, as well as the brand and model. However, as a general rule of thumb, air handlers are less expensive than mini splits.

The average cost of an air handler is between $500 and $1,500. The average cost of a mini split is between $1,500 and $3,000.

Which One is Right for You?

The best way to decide which type of HVAC system is right for you is to consult with an HVAC professional. They can assess your home and needs and recommend the best system for you.

However, here are some general guidelines to help you make a decision:

• If you have a home that does not have ductwork or if you have rooms that are difficult to cool or heat with a central HVAC system, a mini split may be a good option for you.
• If you are looking for a more energy-efficient HVAC system, a mini split may be a good option for you.
• If you are on a budget, an air handler may be a good option for you.

Key Points: Air Handler vs Mini Split

Air handlers and mini splits are both good options for heating and cooling your home. However, there are some key differences between the two types of systems. Air handlers are typically less expensive and more efficient than mini splits. However, mini splits are easier to install and maintain.

The best way to decide which type of HVAC system is right for you is to consult with an HVAC professional. They can assess your home and needs and recommend the best system for you.

Popular Questions

1. What is the difference between an air handler and a mini split?

An air handler is an indoor unit that is part of a central HVAC system. It is responsible for circulating air throughout your home and controlling the temperature. Air handlers are typically installed in attics, basements, or crawl spaces.

A mini split is a ductless HVAC system that consists of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units. The outdoor unit is responsible for cooling or heating the refrigerant, while the indoor units circulate the air throughout your home.

2. Which is more energy-efficient: an air handler or a mini split?

Mini splits are more energy-efficient than air handlers. This is because mini splits use a variable-speed compressor, which allows them to operate at a lower speed when the demand for cooling or heating is low.

3. Which is less expensive: an air handler or a mini split?

Air handlers are typically less expensive than mini splits. This is because air handlers do not require the same amount of labor to install as mini splits.

4. Which is easier to install: an air handler or a mini split?

Mini splits are easier to install than air handlers. This is because mini splits do not require ductwork.

5. Which is quieter: an air handler or a mini split?

Mini splits are quieter than air handlers. This is because mini splits have a smaller fan motor than air handlers.