How does a MRCOOL mini split AC work?
Tracy Beard / Tuesday March 26, 2024
MRCOOL is a leading provider of heating and cooling products that help create energy-efficient systems for homes and businesses. The MRCOOL mini split air conditioning (AC) systems have gained popularity for their design, versatility, and advanced technology.
If you’re considering purchasing a MRCOOL mini split AC, read on to find out more about what it offers.
If you need any replacement parts for your MRCOOL AC unit, you can use your model number to find what you’re looking for at AppliancePartsPros.com. We also have thousands of free DIY troubleshooting and repair guides to help you fix your AC yourself.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on general service manuals and may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.
What does a mini split AC do?
Mini split ACs allow the user to control the temperature in a single room or space. Since it’s a type of heating or cooling system that removes or adds heat through a typical refrigeration or heating process for a designated space, it doesn’t need any ductwork. Mini split ACs are also referred to as ductless units for this reason.
To switch between cool and heat, you just toggle the desired mode. There are other modes offered on some MRCOOL units such as fan-only and dehumidification.
Key parts
A MRCOOL mini split AC system consists of three main parts: the compressor or condenser unit, the indoor air-handling unit (also referred to as the evaporator or air handler), and the conduit that connects them. Let’s take a closer look at each component and its role in the overall system.
Indoor air-handling unit
The indoor air-handling unit, which is often mounted on a wall or ceiling, is where the magic happens. This unit contains the evaporator coil, which absorbs heat from the indoor air. As the refrigerant passes through the evaporator coil, it absorbs heat from the surrounding air, which causes it to cool and dehumidify the space.
Condensing unit
The condensing unit is the beating heart of the mini split AC system. This outdoor unit houses the compressor, condenser, and condenser fan. The compressor circulates refrigerant through the system. The condenser condenses the refrigerant, where it gives off the heat absorbed in the evaporator.
Line set
The line set is a set of insulated pipes that connect the indoor and outdoor units. It consists of a smaller copper pipe (the liquid line) and a larger copper pipe (the suction line). These pipes allow the refrigerant to flow between the two units and help transfer heat in the cooling or heating process.
How does the MRCOOL cooling process work?
- The refrigerant, in a low-pressure liquid state, enters the indoor air-handling unit’s evaporator coil.
- As the refrigerant passes through the coil, it absorbs heat from the indoor air, which causes it to evaporate into a gaseous state.
- The gaseous refrigerant is drawn into the compressor in the outdoor unit, where it’s compressed. This compression process raises the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant gas.
- The hot, high-pressure refrigerant gas enters the condenser coil of the outdoor unit, where it releases the absorbed heat from the indoor space to the outside air. This heat rejection causes the refrigerant to condense back into a liquid state.
- The liquid refrigerant passes through an expansion valve, which causes a sudden drop in pressure and temperature.
- The cooled, low-pressure liquid refrigerant returns to the indoor air-handling unit, where the cycle repeats.
This continuous cycle of heat absorption, compression, condensation (heat rejection), and expansion keeps the space cool while the heat is transferred outside.
The heating process for heat pump units is the cooling process in reverse. Units with strip heat have an electric heating element added to the indoor unit.
Advantages of a MRCOOL mini split AC system
Energy efficiency
These systems are designed to deliver superior cooling and heating performance while consuming less energy compared to traditional HVAC systems. The advanced inverter technology used in MRCOOL units allows for precise temperature control, a reduction in energy consumption and potentially lower utility bills.
Targeted cooling and heating
Unlike traditional central air conditioning systems, MRCOOL mini split AC systems offer zoned cooling and heating. Each indoor air-handling unit can be controlled independently so you can cool or heat specific areas or rooms as needed. This feature can bring comfort to your home and contribute to energy savings by only cooling or heating occupied spaces.
Flexible installation
The MRCOOL mini split AC systems are also flexible for installation. Since they have a compact design, they can be installed in several different locations including walls, ceilings, and even drop ceilings. These units tend to be an excellent choice for spaces with limited ductwork or specific cooling and heating requirements.
Quiet operation
MRCOOL mini split AC systems are known for their quiet operation due to their advanced compressor technology and sound-dampening design features. The indoor air-handling units operate at a whisper-quiet level to keep a peaceful indoor environment.
Improved indoor air quality
Many MRCOOL mini split AC systems come equipped with advanced air filtration systems that help remove airborne particles, allergens, and pollutants from the indoor air. This feature can help you maintain a healthier indoor environment and prevent dust and debris buildup in the machine.
More information
Thanks for reading! If you need replacement parts for your MRCOOL unit or any of your other appliances, check out AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can enter your model number to find exactly what you’re looking for. Most orders arrive in two business days, and we have thousands of free resources to show you how to install your new parts.
You can also reach our award-winning customer service team at 1-877-477-7278, chat with a pro on our website and watch thousands of free video tutorials on our YouTube channel.
Hello there! I’m Tracy, and I’m thrilled to be part of the Appliance Parts Pros team. With two years of service and hands-on experience here, I’ve had the privilege of helping numerous customers troubleshoot their home appliances and find DIY repair solutions.