In the first installment of our blog series on everything tiny homes, we looked at humidity issues in tiny houses. Today, we're looking at staying comfortable in your tiny house with the right cooling and heating solution.
You'll see a lot of comfort solutions out there. From heaters to window air conditioners, but there's one product that stands out from the rest, a mini split. Also known as ductless split systems, many of these are all-in-one units that cool, heat, and more. Keep reading to see the top 5 reasons a mini-split is the best cooling and heating solution for your tiny house.
Reason 1: Combination Heating and Cooling Units
If you're looking for a way to not have to have separate heating and cooling systems, then you've found it with a mini split. Many mini splits are designed to offer both cooling and heating in the same unit.
When shopping, be sure to look for a unit that has built-in heating. Most will use a heat pump to create warmth, helping to keep you toasty all winter long.
Reason 2: The Right Cooling and Heating Power for Tiny Houses
A mini split uses an outdoor condenser and an indoor air handler to cool and heat your home. Each indoor ductless unit offers a set number of BTUs of cooling power. You simply need to know the number of BTUs associated with the indoor unit and make sure it fits the square footage you're cooling.
Check out the below sizing chart to easily find the right one for your space. The typical tiny house is going to need 10,000 BTUs or less of power. 
Reason 3: Mini Splits Offer the Ultimate in Efficiency
Many individuals choose the tiny house lifestyle because it's a more cost-effective way to live. Nothing can put a crimp in your annual costs like the wrong heating and cooling solution. That's why a mini split and its maximum efficiency is such a great choice.
- Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio: The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, or SEER, is how the efficiency of a mini split is measured. Federal requirements state mini splits must have a 13.0 SEER rating to be used in the United States, compare that to other options.
- Energy Star: To even further reduce your annual energy usage, look for a model that's earned an Energy Star rating.
Reason 4: Quiet Operation
In a tiny house, you don't want a unit that's going to put out a lot of noise. Traditionally, mini splits are known as some of the quietest comfort solutions available. Because the unit's compressor is housed outside, only indoor noise is from the air handler's fan.
Reason 5: Simple Installation
Installation of a mini split is relatively simple. While many do require professional installation, some models are designed for the do-it-yourselfer.
By mounting the indoor unit to your wall, drilling a hole, and connecting the indoor unit to the outdoor unit with refrigerant line, set up takes just a few steps. Find out how easy it is to install a DIY mini split in this handy article.
Things to Consider
Before you decide a mini split is right for you, there are a few things you should consider first:
- Will Only Work in Stationary Homes: If your tiny home is going to be on the move, instead of remaining in a permanent location, then a mini split is not the best choice for you. The outdoor condenser needs to be placed in a fixed location outside the home.
- Additional Cooling Options: Mini splits allow you direct the airflow to areas you need it most. Sometimes though, people need a little extra airflow. Consider placing a wall-mounted fan in your loft or bedroom or even a desk fan for when you're working and need a little extra airflow.
Questions?
Want to find out more about the right cooling and heating solutions for your tiny house? Contact one of our product experts at 1-800-934-9194.
