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Wall vs Ceiling Mounted? Which is right for your home?

Mini-split systems typically fall into 4 styles / product lines.  Wall mount, floor mount, ceiling (one-way), ceiling (4-way).    Wall mount cassettes are nearly always less expensive than the other options.  This is due to the lower initial product cost and the relative ease of installation.  The main downside is the aesthetics and overall bulk of the units.  They also can conflict with windows, trim, etc. which limit their placement.

Wall Mounted Mini-Splits

  • Available in smaller sizes (6,000 BTUs) than 4-way or floor mount models.  Helpful for small bedrooms, where 9,000 BTU units will overpower the space.
  • Require a minimum of ~36-40″ of total available width, depending on the model.  Wall mount units typically stick out ~10-11 inches from the wall.  These mini-splits must have at least 5″ of clearance on the right side of the unit.
  • Ideally installed on exterior walls or within close proximity.  While the condensate/drain line can be installed in a wall cavity, leaks can cause more damage.
  • Air movement is predominantly outward and is less effective at heating/cooling areas perpendicular to the airflow.

 

1-Way Ceiling Cassettes

  • Similar in many ways to a 4-way cassette.  These push air in a single direction, which can work well in long/narrow rooms.  Like their 4-way counterparts, they are significantly more costly (2x-3x) than a corresponding wall mount unit.
  • In most cases, an accessible attic space above the proposed location is necessary.
  • Require less width between joists than a 4-way cassette (~13 inches).
  • Available in small sizes (i.e. 6,000 BTUs), making them a good option for small rooms.

 

4-Way Ceiling Cassettes

  • Significantly more costly (2x-3x) than a corresponding wall mount unit.
  • As the name implies, these are installed on the ceiling, so they take up much less space in the room & are much more inconspicuous.
  • In most cases, an accessible attic space above the proposed location is necessary.
  • Installation requires at least 22.5in of clearing space in the ceiling cavity (24 on-center ceiling rafters).
  • Ideal for bigger rooms or open floorplans as they distribute air in 4 directions.  This provides much more even distribution than a similar wall mount cassette.
  • Not available in small sizes (i.e. 6,000 BTUs), making them a poor option for small rooms.   The minimum available size is 9,000 BTUs.

 

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