Multizone Mini-split

[theoldwizard1]

Seeking input from professionals.

In the past, I always believed that more zones (air handlers) from a single compressor was less efficient. Mr. Cool is currently advertising a 6 zone system with a SEER2 ratting of 22 ! They spec all air handlers to be the same size, so this might not work out for every installation (I guess you could have more than 1 air handler in a room if they were slaved together.)

I do know that long refrigerant lines hurts efficiency. Also, smaller "systems" (air handler and compressor) for smaller, less frequently occupied rooms (so they could be closed off) will reduce the "cost of operation".

So professionals, have you installed mini-splits systems with more than 2 zones and how did they work out for the customer ?

 

[fitter30]

All minis in the install manual and brochure state max line lengths and height difference. As for as different size evaps when i bought my two- three head systems they were advertised mix or match. Also see like mine are two ton and using 5 wall units 9k and one ducted 9k. Only thing they required is to run at least two indoor unit at the same time. Picked two systems because I'm very rural instead of one in case one unit has problem still have AC or heat in half the house because parts are a few days away. Also use lp for backup heat and a 5k btu window unit for a bedroom to run off my generaror if needed ( bought it 10 years ago keep it in a closet never used but run it for 20 minutes at the start of the season)

 

[pcmeiners]

Mr. Cool is currently advertising a 6 zone system with a SEER2 ratting of 22

Considering heating costs are approx (4) times the cost for AC for average users SEER should not be relied upon to judge a splits efficiency except for states which rarely use heat but need AC more.

This is what I found, HSPF2: Up to 8.5 Not great for Mn.
Had to look around so Mr Cool likes to bury the HSPF numbers.

"In the past, I always believed that more zones (air handlers) from a single compressor was less efficient." This has not changed

 

[theoldwizard1]

This is what I found, HSPF2: Up to 8.5 Not great for Mn.
Had to look around so Mr Cool likes to bury the HSPF numbers.

Good to know !!!