Air handler Vs. mini-split.

Hey Team! Im getting ready to pull the trigger on a/c units. I originally thought I was going to throw a 5ton with an air handler for flower, and use a mini split for veg.

After doing some thinking. I am considering just getting a 3 ton with an air handler for veg, since im not really limited by space.

What are some pro's cons or using a mini split over an air handler? I feel like the delivery of cold air would be better with an air handler and you dont have to take it all apart to really clean it after cycles.

Thanks for your time.

Mini splits are more efficient, but you need multiple units for large spaces. Central HVAC systems w/ air handlers are more expensive to install, less efficient, but can move lots of air quickly.

Mini splits generally have a better low ambient capability.

If i was installing units in a commercial style grow, I would probably go with "ductable" split units. I install fujitsu and with this specific unit it is great how easy and slim they are. You can make them sense at the unit themselves or at the remote thermostat, I like these units alot!


Mitsubishi is a really great unit as well. If you have a factory certified installer put the equipment in, you can get really great technical support/service done by professionals with either company. The key is going with a reputable company who installs that unit and has a good connection with the manufacturer.

To make it simple, a minisplit uses inverter technology to control the speed of the compressor and fans, so it's not just on or off, it can be anywhere in between. So if it's cold outside the compressor works less and the condenser fans turn slowly or not at all. If the heat load is low, the unit runs easier saving money and matching it's output to demand. The better ones like Mitsubishi can be set to auto cool and they will figure out how hard to work according to the variables involved.

Renfro said:

To make it simple, a minisplit uses inverter technology to control the speed of the compressor and fans, so it's not just on or off, it can be anywhere in between. So if it's cold outside the compressor works less and the condenser fans turn slowly or not at all. If the heat load is low, the unit runs easier saving money and matching it's output to demand. The better ones like Mitsubishi can be set to auto cool and they will figure out how hard to work according to the variables involved.

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exactly. I think if you were in a place where you only were ever to worry about heat gain in a outdoor high heat area, the conventional air handler would be the way to go

If you are worried about running cooling when it gets colder out~~ Mini splits or similar because of their DC inverter technology.
Renfro always with the accurate Info!

So basically you are saying that getting mini splits would be better. The cost would probably be the same since i would need multiple mini's in the flower room. Trying to cool at least 10k watts

I am cooling 10kW in my rooms with a 4 ton mini. Also heat from dehus and co2 generator.

Features you want on any AC unit.

Low Ambient (so it will work when it's below 60F outside).

Auto Restart after power outage. If the power goes off and comes back on we don't want the plants cooking because the AC didn't resume it's settings.

Renfro said:

I am cooling 10kW in my rooms with a 4 ton mini. Also heat from dehus and co2 generator.

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Its just 1 unit? How often do you have to clean it? Have you had any issues with it breaking?

My friend has had a bunch of issues with his split. I dont know which brand he has, maybe its a shitty one. Taking it apart to clean it is kind of a pain, but i could deal with it.

If you have power outages often and use a standard split style unit (not a mini) then you may need to add a "delay on break" timer to the 24 volt control line. That will prevent the AC unit from restarting too quickly if the power just goes out for a minute. The back pressure in the line set can make it hard to start the compressor (rotor lock) and this can pop the breaker or even burn out a compressor.

Renfro said:

Features you want on any AC unit.

Low Ambient (so it will work when it's below 60F outside).

Auto Restart after power outage. If the power goes off and comes back on we don't want the plants cooking because the AC didn't resume it's settings.

Click to expand...

I was looking at something like this goodman, https://www.acwholesalers.com/Goodman-GSX140361-ARUF37C14/p87125.html for the veg room.

I really appreciate your input here.

Snob said:

Its just 1 unit? How often do you have to clean it? Have you had any issues with it breaking?

My friend has had a bunch of issues with his split. I dont know which brand he has, maybe its a shitty one. Taking it apart to clean it is kind of a pain, but i could deal with it.

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Just one unit per room, never cleaned them (no reason to). I haven't seen any mold and when I pull the filters they are clean (my carbon filter scrubbers clean the air good).

Supposed to be getting a quote on installation tomorrow. I haven't ordered the units yet tho.

Snob said:

I was looking at something like this goodman, https://www.acwholesalers.com/Goodman-GSX140361-ARUF37C14/p87125.html for the veg room.

I really appreciate your input here.

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That will probably work (if 3 tons will do the job) but when it gets cool outside the evaporator coil will wanna freeze into a block of ice.

Renfro said:

Just one unit per room, never cleaned them (no reason to). I haven't seen any mold and when I pull the filters they are clean (my carbon filter scrubbers clean the air good).

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Is there 1 condenser outside and 2 splits for the rooms like this?


Or would i get separate condensers?

I like the ceiling mount units, I hang them where I don't have lights. If you have space in your rooms where you can do that it's a real winner.

Snob said:

Is there 1 condenser outside and 2 splits for the rooms like this?

Mitsubishi M2H60W24240000 Wall Mounted 2-Zone System - 60,000 BTU Outdoor - 24k + 24k Indoor - 17.4 SEER

The Mitsubishi Wall Mounted 2-Zone System - 60,000 BTU Outdoor - 24k + 24k Indoor - 17.4 SEER M2H60W24240000 has been discontinued. Check out Expert's recommended alternatives for another top mini split system.

www.ecomfort.com

Or would i get separate condensers?

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Two totally seperate units, the unit you linked will only put half the cooling to each zone.

Not sure about that unit either 48k isn't 60k. Wonder whats up there.