Skip to main content
Find a Local Expert Get System Recommendation
HVAC Education, Buying Tips, Furnaces, Heat Pumps, Technology

What is A Split System Air Conditioner?

By Ryan Mayes

How does air conditioning work as a split HVAC system? A split HVAC system is an air conditioning system or heating system that has both indoor and outdoor units that are connected with copper tubing.

Traditionally, the outdoor portion of the unit contains the compressor and condenser, and the indoor portion of the unit contains an evaporator coil and indoor air handling unit that sends the air through the ductwork in your home. These types of home cooling systems are different from HVAC packaged units, where all parts are packaged together in one unit.

There are many different types of split systems, which can include heat pump systems or air conditioning systems (larger homes might require multiple split system air conditioners) installed outside your home, paired with either a gas furnace or a fan coil located inside your home.

5 Different Types of Split System Cooling and Heating Systems

An illustration that explains what is a split system air conditioner

1. Split System Heat Pumps

Heat pumps run on electricity and draw heat from outside air—even cold air—and transfer it indoors. The outdoor unit houses a compressor and heat exchanger, and the indoor unit has an air handler and fan that circulate the air inside the home.

2. Split System Air Conditioners

Split-system air conditioners are units with the condenser and compressor placed outdoors, and an indoor unit containing the evaporator, furnace, air handler, and filters.

3. Furnaces

Furnaces are indoor units that burn fuel, like gas or propane, to heat up the air, then distribute it through ductwork in your home.

4. Fan coils

Fan coils are indoor units that move air over the coil, heat or cool it depending on the weather and season, then distribute it through ductwork in your home.

5. Ductless vs. Ducted Systems

Split-system HVAC can be ducted or ductless. Ducted split systems use ductwork to circulate the warm air generated from your furnace, fan coil, or heat pump, and the cool air generated by your air conditioner, heat pump, or fan coil. Ductless mini split systems use small air handlers located in specific areas in your home to heat or cool that individual space.

What Is A Split Air Conditioner's Benefit?

Split HVAC systems have many benefits compared to HVAC packaged units. However, it is important to keep in mind that different types of ducted air conditioners and mini split air conditioners have benefits for different types of homes, apartments, and condos. While one HVAC system might be best suited for one type of home, it may not be best for another. Our dedicated team of Carrier experts can help you determine the best type of split HVAC system for your home and budget.

a carrier dealer explains what a split unit ac is and the value of a split air conditioner

Efficiency

The efficiency ratings for HVAC split systems can range from the minimum efficiency allowed by the Department of Energy (DOE), to high-efficiency systems with ratings up to 24 SEER2. Split systems that are Energy Star® certified are considered much more energy efficient than those that rated the DOE minimum efficiency standards. Having a more energy-efficient unit can help you to save money on heating and cooling costs, which are traditionally the most expensive parts of your energy bill.

Customization

HVAC split systems have two separate components, which allows for more customization in the setup of the system.

Out of Pocket Savings

Installing a high-efficiency ducted air conditioner or mini split AC system can help save money by reducing energy costs, especially when it offers both heat and cool functions for year-round use. 
 
Additionally, if you add zoning, you can control the temperature in individual rooms, further reducing energy use in spaces that don’t need constant conditioning. This targeted cooling and heating approach can also help reduce your energy bills.

What Is A Split AC Unit Downside?

A Carrier dealer explains what is a split ac unit to a couple standing in their kitchen.

More Expensive Installation

Since there are two separate units that comprise the system, split HVAC systems tend to be more expensive to install compared to HVAC packaged units. The installation costs can also increase if the two separate units have to be installed farther apart. The installation costs can vary widely for different types of HVAC split systems, and ductless systems can have more expensive units, but don’t require any air ducts to be installed in your home.

Outside Noise

If the outdoor split AC is not properly maintained, the unit can be pretty noisy, which can hinder your experience in your yard or on your patio. This can also cause problems if you’re a light sleeper and the split system air conditioner is placed close to a bedroom.

The Outdoor Unit Requires Space

Since part of the system lives outdoors, there is space needed for the outdoor split air conditioner. This makes it difficult to install these systems if you have a small yard or outdoor space.

Contact an HVAC Expert About Your Carrier Split AC System and Split Air Conditioners

Our dedicated team of HVAC professionals can help you to determine the best type of HVAC system for your home and can properly install your new split air conditioner in your home. Find a dealer near you to get started on your new HVAC split system today!

a carrier dealer stands by split ac unit outside home

Frequently Asked Questions About Split System Cooling Units

A split HVAC system consists of two main components: an indoor unit (usually furnace and evaporator coil or fan coil) and an outdoor unit (the air conditioner or heat pump). These units are connected by refrigerant lines, allowing the system to cool or heat the air efficiently, with each component performing specific functions.
An air conditioner split system has two main components: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The indoor unit, usually a fan coil or furnace, circulates air within your home. Meanwhile, the outdoor unit—with its compressor, condenser coil, and expansion valve—transfers heat from inside to outside, providing efficient cooling.
The primary difference between a split AC and a normal AC lies in their design and installation. On the other hand, normal ACs, such as window or wall units, are self-contained systems installed through a window or hole in the wall. Split ACs offer advantages like improved energy efficiency, quieter operation, and the ability to cool individual rooms independently through the use of a zoning system.
A split system uses ductwork to distribute air throughout an entire home. A mini split system does not use ductwork and uses individual indoor units for specific rooms or areas. Both systems use an indoor unit and outdoor unit to effectively heat or cool an area.
Yes, a split system can cool an entire house, depending on the size of the HVAC system and the size and layout of the house. Some homes require multiple split systems. Talk to your local Carrier dealer to learn what HVAC solution is best for your home.
A common drawback of a split air conditioning system is the higher upfront cost compared to other air conditioning units. Additionally, are more complex to install and require professional installation, which can increase the overall expense. However, the energy efficiency and individual room control (when zoning is added) can often outweigh these drawbacks.
Get Carrier Comfort in Your Home
Build your own system keyboard_arrow_right
Connect with an expert keyboard_arrow_right

Learn More About Split Unit Air Conditioners

Chat-icon
Let's chat
- Home-icon
chat-circle-icon