Anyone use only minisplits to cool/heat an entire house?

[Joseph Weisenbloom]

I have a flip I am currently working on and there is no space for ducts. I am considering buying a few multizone minisplits and placing the heads in the bedrooms, kitchen and the living room.

My question is will this strategy work? How do I circulate conditioned air to hallways, bathrooms etc? 

[KC Pake]

Quote from @Joseph Weisenbloom:

I have a flip I am currently working on and there is no space for ducts. I am considering buying a few multizone minisplits and placing the heads in the bedrooms, kitchen and the living room.

My question is will this strategy work? How do I circulate conditioned air to hallways, bathrooms etc? 

Hi Joseph,

I have used this strategy in a large basement (1100 sqft) with multiple rooms. Opting for multi-zone mini-split systems (link is just a sample, there are many to choose from) offers a practical and efficient solution for heating and cooling an entire house, particularly in renovation projects where space for ductwork is constrained or entirely absent. These systems provide the flexibility to install individual air handlers in key living spaces—such as bedrooms, kitchens, and living rooms—without extensive ducting, making them ideal for streamlined and efficient climate control throughout the property. One of the primary benefits of mini-splits is their energy efficiency; by enabling individualized temperature control for different zones within the house, they significantly reduce energy waste associated with heating or cooling unoccupied spaces.

However, a common concern with this approach is ensuring that areas not directly served by an air handler, such as hallways and bathrooms, also receive adequate conditioned air. This can be effectively addressed by strategically placing the mini-split units in locations where they can facilitate airflow into adjacent spaces, and by implementing simple modifications like undercutting doors to promote air circulation. Additionally, the use of ceiling fans in these areas can further assist in distributing conditioned air more evenly throughout the house.

It's also important to conduct accurate load calculations for each zone to ensure that the mini-split units are appropriately sized, thereby maximizing their efficiency and the overall comfort level within the home. Consulting with HVAC professionals experienced in working with mini-splits can provide valuable insights into optimal unit placement, sizing, and strategies for enhancing airflow to areas without direct air handler placement.

With careful planning and installation of multi-zone mini-split systems, renovators can achieve a comfortable, energy-efficient environment that appeals to potential buyers, overcoming the challenges of limited space for traditional ductwork and enhancing the property's value through the added benefit of zoned climate control.

Good luck with your project,
KC