Multi Zone mini split systems are widely used when more than one room needs to be heated and cooled.
Single zone systems are the most common mini split units installed, which are great when heating and cooling a single room or addition.
When more than one room needs air conditioning or heating, 2, 3, 4, or more zoned systems can be installed.
What is a Multi Zone Mini Split?
A multi zone mini split system heats and cools multiple rooms using one outside condenser.
The single outside condenser manages multiple indoor units.
Most mini split installs are single zone systems that have one outside condenser and one inside wall unit.
Multi zone packages can add more inside wall units to a single outside condenser.
This includes 2 (Dual-Zone), 3 (Tri Zone), and sometimes four or more inside units running from one outside condenser.
While multiple single zone units can also be installed, this often clutters up the outside area with multiple outdoor condensers.
A multi zone system with a single outside condenser not only helps curb appeal but also can save outside space.
How Do Multi Zone Mini Splits Work?
Multi zone mini split system works by having multiple inside air handlers, all using a single outside condenser.
The outside condenser will have multiple connections for refrigeration lines going to the inside wall units.
Inside evaporator wall units can number 2, 3, 4 or more all connected to a single outside condenser.
This allows for the heating and cooling of many rooms or even a whole house.
How To Install a Multi Zone Mini Split System
- The outside condenser is set up at the best location.
- The indoor units are set up and mounted on a bracket. A hole is cut through the wall behind the bracket to run the line-set.
- A line-set that carries refrigerant is run between the indoor units and the outside condenser.
- Electrical lines are run to the outside condenser, usually 240 volts.
- Control wires are run between the indoor units and the outside condenser.
- The entire system is pressure tested and set into a vacuum with a vacuum pump.
- Once a system is tested for leaks and holds a vacuum, the refrigerant is released, and the system is ready to be used.
What Type of Multi Zone Mini Split Brands are Available?
There are several brands available that can be installed from any of the popular mini split manufacturers.
This includes Pioneer, Senville, Mitsubishi, Gree, Cooper & Hunter, and more.
Read Here for Our Picks for the Best Dual Zone Mini Split Systems
Read Here for Our Picks for the Best Tri Zone Mini Split Systems
Can You Install a Multi Zone Mini Split System Yourself?
Yes, there are many DIY multi-zone mini-split systems that a homeowner can install themselves.
There is some degree of basic construction skills that are needed to do an install.
How Hard is it To Install a DIY Multi Zone Mini Split System?
There is a level of knowledge needed to install any mini split system, including multi zone units.
Holes will need to be drilled through walls and copper line-set that carry refrigerant run between the inside and outside unit.
Electrical will also need to be run to the outside condenser, usually 240 volts AC.
If you have experience installing electrical breakers along with drilling holes and other skills, installing a DIY unit may work for you.
If you have limited construction knowledge calling a local HVAC company for a bid on an install is likely the best option.
There are many YouTube videos showing the steps involved for a multi zone install to see if a DIY kit is right for you.
Summary
Multi zone mini split heat pumps are great units for heating and cooling more than one room.
They are often used to heat and cool a whole house that traditional HVAC systems have problems with.
For example, some 2-3 story homes have problems keeping the temperature the same throughout the house.
A multiple zone system can help regulate the temperature in each room, adjusting automatically.
Mini split systems also usually have much higher efficiency ratings at 19-25 SEER or higher, which helps bring down electrical bills.
Have you installed a multi zone mini split system? Let us know your thought below.
Really would like to know more about hoe to run refrigerant &vcondensation lines fro additional indoor unit.