What Exactly is a Split Unit in HVAC?

Tori Klein • June 30, 2022

The Difference Between a Split System and Package Unit

Photo of a mini split and someone holding the remote for it.

If you've ever searched for a brand-new HVAC device, you've possibly stumbled upon the term "split device". There are different types of split systems in the cooling and heating world, we're going to explain exactly what a split device is.


A common split unit, on the other hand, will have the HVAC unit's compressor and condenser coils, known as the condenser system, situated outside. The evaporator coil and/or heater are situated inside the house. The part of the unit that's seen outdoors is going to show up much smaller than that of a packaged unit.


Different Types of Split Units

When it comes to split units, there are different types available. There is a split unit HVAC, a split unit heat pump, a split unit AC system with a heating system, and so on. There are ductless mini-split units too, however, we aren't covering those in this post. 


A split unit HVAC is fairly simple. It will include the compressor and condenser coil located outside the building and the rest of the components, such as the evaporator coil, are located inside the building. There are methods to supply warmth with an air conditioning system alone, however, it's not recommended for climates that get below freezing temperatures. A split unit HVAC with a heater would correspond to a split unit air conditioner but would consist of a heater indoors as well for home heating objectives. The heating system additionally functions as an air handler in that it disperses both the cool and warm air throughout the house.



Benefits of a Split Unit


1) A split device is typically more efficient than a packaged system. While packaged units can come up to an 18 SEER performance ranking, split devices can achieve a 22 SEER performance rating.


2) More of the system's parts are located inside the house so a lot of the simple upkeep can be done inside the comfort of your residential home or your company's office space.


3) Split units are more flexible when it comes to changing or upgrading your heating or cooling system. For example, if you already have a heating unit, getting a split HVAC device is the most economical alternative.


We hope this has provided you with a better understanding of what a split device is. When choosing what kind of system to get for your home or company, we recommend that you contact your Best Owner Direct for helpful tips and guidance so you can make the best decision for your home or office.


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