Multi-split air conditioning systems connect multiple indoor units to a single outdoor unit. They're ideal for cooling several rooms without cluttering your exterior with multiple outdoor units.
How Multi-Split Systems Work
One powerful outdoor unit connects to 2-5 indoor units through refrigerant piping. Each indoor unit can be controlled independently with its own thermostat and settings.
Advantages of Multi-Split
- Space saving: One outdoor unit instead of many
- Aesthetics: Cleaner exterior appearance
- Efficiency: Modern systems share load intelligently
- Flexibility: Mix different indoor unit types (wall, ceiling, floor)
- Individual control: Each room has its own settings
Disadvantages to Consider
- Single point of failure: If outdoor unit fails, all rooms affected
- Higher initial cost: More complex installation
- Piping complexity: Longer runs reduce efficiency
Planning Considerations
Capacity Calculation
The outdoor unit must handle the combined BTU of all indoor units. However, you typically don't need 100% simultaneous capacity since not all rooms run at full power at once.
Pipe Length
Maximum pipe length varies by system (typically 50-100 meters total). Each meter of pipe run reduces efficiency slightly. Keep runs as short as possible.
Indoor Unit Placement
Consider airflow patterns, furniture placement, and ease of maintenance access.
Plan Your System
Use our Multi-Split System Planner to design your configuration and Pipe Length Sizing Tool for proper refrigerant line sizing.