Setting the Right Temperature for Your Ductless Mini Split

Now that your ductless mini split is installed, you could probably use some tips for finding the perfect comfort zone. Operating at maximum efficiency will enhance the energy cost savings these systems were designed for.

How the Thermostat Measures Temperatures.

Your old HVAC system was probably set up so that the thermostat was measuring temperatures at about four to five feet from the floor. The ductless mini is installed seven to eight feet above the floor, so temperatures will be measured differently.

Setting the Temperature. 

Most homeowners will need an auxiliary heating source for their ductless mini heat pumps. That’s because with a heat pump, which transfers heat via refrigerant inside the unit to warm the home, when temperatures fall below freezing the heat pump may no longer be able to heat the home efficiently. That’s when an alternative heat source should kick on. If you set your mini split between 65 and 70 degrees in the winter, set your back-up heating system to between 55 and 60 degrees. If you have a system installed in more than one room, the temperature can be adjusted for each room individually. For further energy savings, the thermostat used to control your ductless mini split can be set to keep different temperatures for different times of the day and night just like any other system.

Just like with a conventional furnace or air conditioner, you may want to lower or raise the temperature of your mini split, depending on the season, when you leave your home for a while.

When the Ductless Mini Split Turns Off.  

The ductless mini split system should turn itself off automatically in extremely cold outside temperatures to prevent damage to the unit. Your auxiliary system will then kick in. The ductless system will automatically resume when the temperature warms up sufficiently.

If you have further questions, talk to our expert advisers on home comfort at Balance Point Heating & Air Conditioning at your convenience.