[Greenbuilding] mini split? Always?

[John Straube]

Climate?
The huge problem with mini-splits is there lack of distribution. How to spread the heat and cool around without causing discomfort in far corners of buildings.
Second issue is capacity: most are limited to 24-36K.
Systems with air handlers and higher capacity are available but their cost tends to skyrocket and the performance drops a lot.
If many cases, a standard US brand air source heat pump is not a bad choice: a Carrier, Goodman or Trane SEER16 heat pump with an ECM air handler can be a great swap out for electric furnaces in homes with modest heating demand in climates without many hours below around 10 F.


On 2010-10-12, at 12:32 PM, Reuben Deumling wrote:

> I'm helping some folks replace their forced air electrical furnace (1970s condo, two level, 1,200 square feet) and from paying peripheral attention to electrical heating discussions here I understand that a mini-split system is the way to go if energy efficiency/low energy consumption per HDD is the top priority and wood and gas are not options. 
> 
> I normally only work with wood and natural gas heating systems, so this is new to me. Any introductory tips? Advanced recommendations? Obvious mistakes to avoid? 
> 
> Thanks so much.
> 
> Reuben Deumling
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