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How Do Ductless Mini Splits Work?

June 28, 2024
How Do Ductless Mini Splits Work?

At Southern Air, the technicians agree that exploring new air conditioner possibilities for your home may sound intimidating with all the new models now available. A lack of familiarity (and the price factor) can bolster a sense of apprehension. However, one thing is certain – if you want superior temperature control, ductless mini-splits are the way to go.

Here’s more about modern ductless heating and cooling solutions so that you can make a more informed decision.

What Are Ductless Mini-Split Systems?

Ductless mini-split air conditioners have two parts – one outside and one inside – that are connected compactly. Most types will heat and cool effectively within a small space or zone, making them a perfect alternative to larger centralized systems with elaborate ductwork. Plus, without ductwork required, installing the unit is a lot cheaper. 

This compact option for temperature control combines easily with small, wall-mounted units that cool and heat a single room at a time. Through a flexible tube in the wall, you connect your outdoor unit to your indoor one for a temperature management solution that’s just as powerful as it is concentrated. While it isn’t as widespread as a central air system, you can let this energy-efficient system work for comfort as well as energy savings.

How Do Ductless Mini-Splits Function?

Your ductless mini-splits bring in hot air through your outdoor unit, passing it through a pipe. This air flows into your indoor unit, which compresses it and blows out cool air. 

Unlike a duct system, this method of cooling your home is direct and quick. The tube is quite narrow, so it is a relatively short pathway for the air from hot to cold.

Benefits of a Ductless Mini-Split System

Generally, ductless mini-split systems serve smaller homes better or even, if a landlord allows it, apartment units. The units cool in just a short amount of time, so you won’t even notice the lack of ductwork with the secure air transfer system (and there’s no room for leaks, either!).

If you’re considering a ductless mini-split system, the following reasons might persuade you:

  • Compact: Unlike other air conditioners and heating systems, the mini-split system puts a great deal of emphasis on the ‘mini’ in its title. Both the outdoor unit and the indoor unit are compact and easy to keep clean.
  • Affordable: The mini-split system contains no ductwork, so you save money on the installation and maintenance aspects compared to duct systems.
  • Efficient: Electing for a mini-split system can help you manage your energy bills more succinctly – they’re highly energy efficient.
  • Superior control: Because this system cools one room at a time, you can maintain better control over your home’s temperature control with ductless mini-splits.

Are you interested in installing a ductless mini-split unit? Consider working with Southern Air, one of the best air conditioning and heating services in Florida’s Palatka area and the surrounding cities. 

Call Southern Air at (386) 222-1342 for everything from heating and cooling solutions to air quality control, maintenance packages, and HVAC installation.


Meet Dustin

Dustin Caison serves as both the President and CEO of Southern Air, a family-owned business founded in 1980 and based in Palatka, Florida. As the third generation to lead the company, Dustin has dedicated over 21 years to continuing the legacy of excellence established by his father and grandfather.

A State Certified Air Conditioning Contractor, Dustin brings extensive expertise and professionalism to the HVAC industry. Under his leadership, Southern Air has maintained its commitment to delivering quality service and fostering strong ties with the Palatka community. His dedication and credentials have been key to the company’s ongoing success.

An avid outdoorsman, Dustin enjoys hunting, fishing, and golfing with his family and friends. He is also deeply involved in his local community, serving at his church, Rodeheaver Boys Ranch, the Putnam County Fair Board, and A Women’s Resource Center.

Dustin places great importance on taking care of his people and building strong relationships with his employees. He believes that with a dedicated team, strong business practices, and a focus on continuous growth, any business can achieve remarkable success.

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Mark R.
19 hours ago
Robert did an Awesome job on our AC unit. He was on time and very polite. He thanked us for choosing Southern Air for our AC maintenance. He made sure we knew that we could call anytime we needed them.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Mark for the five-star review! We appreciate your business and look forward to working with you in the future.
Susan M.
22 hours ago
Justin was on time at 1pm. He was very friendly and got right down to his business. Justin has been here before with these check ups on the A/C. He brought us spare filters as requested. Very nice young man👍
Eric P.
2 days ago
Mr Vera was a courteous and very knowledgeable technician and did a great job with our maintenance upkeep. Thanks again Mr Vera and Southern Air.
Response from the owner:Eric, thank you for the kind review. I’m glad Mr. Vera was courteous and knowledgeable and that he took good care of your maintenance. We appreciate you choosing Southern Air.
Jim E.
2 days ago
Robert did a great job today! Southern Air always keeps our system it TipTop condition🥶🥶🥶
Response from the owner:Thanks, Jim—glad to hear Robert took great care of you today. We appreciate you choosing Southern Air, and we’ll keep working to keep your system running in top condition.
Meri
3 days ago
I have had great experiences with Southern Air. Each technician has been professional, respectful and knowledgeable.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Meri, for taking the time to share this. I’m glad our technicians have been professional, respectful, and knowledgeable during your visits, and I appreciate you choosing Southern Air.
Louise
4 days ago
Jamar checked the air handler as it was making a strange noise. He said it most likely was doing that because the air filter was very dirty. I changed the filter last night & we could not hear it anymore. While he was here, he checked the system out & all was running ok!
Response from the owner:Louise, thanks for taking the time to share this. I’m glad Jamar was able to pinpoint the likely cause and that changing the filter solved the noise right away. We appreciate you choosing Southern Air, and it’s great to hear everything else checked out and is running well.
John A.
4 days ago
Excellent service
Response from the owner:Thanks, John! We’re glad to have your support and appreciate the 5 stars.
Terri H.
7 days ago
Justin Coates did my maintenance this morning. He was very punctual and professional. He is an awesome service representative. Thank you.
Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your experience! We’re thrilled to hear Matthew and the team provided fantastic service with quick response times. We truly appreciate your continued trust and recommendation of Southern Air!
Richard B.
1 week ago
He was here for a couple of hours troubleshooting my AC as to why it wasn’t communicating with my Thermostat. He was on hold with the Lenex Technical Support and never got them to answer back. Another tech suggested a work around to test system and it worked. Got us a working unit until they could replace the wiring going to the electronics. Just a standard service call price.
Response from the owner:Richard we apologize for the inconvenience but appreciate your patience and understanding. We are diligently working with the manufacturer to get this resolved for you as soon as we can. Thank You!
Roger L.
1 week ago
Great communication, Jason worked fast but took no shortcuts. I was very happy with today’s service.
Response from the owner:Roger, thank you for the kind review. I’m glad Jason kept you informed throughout the visit and got everything taken care of quickly while still doing it the right way. We appreciate you choosing Southern Air.
Sandy J.
2 weeks ago
My first appointment. Jamar seemed thorough; took his time. He unclogged drain. Checked systems inside/outside. Even washed the unit! Explained what he was doing.
Gave recommendations as a/c isn't new!
Happy with my choice of Southern Air.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Sandy! We're very pleased to hear that Jamar took the time to thoroughly check your systems and even went the extra mile to wash the unit. It's wonderful to know you feel happy with choosing Southern Air.
Kelli G.
2 weeks ago
Robert was great and explained everything he was doing.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Kelli—I'm glad Robert took the time to walk you through everything and keep you informed along the way. We really appreciate you choosing Southern Air and sharing your experience.
Relic Rescue U.
2 weeks ago
Excellent! Excellent! Excellent! In the 11th hour of boiling Florida summer temps Justin brought out a new mother board and motor for our warrantied air conditioner. While waiting for parts Southern Air also brought us a small, one room portable air cond. to get us by and at no cost. GET THE ANNUAL MAINTENANCE CONTRACT!
Response from the owner:Wow — thank you so much for the glowing review! We’re thrilled Justin was able to get you up and running just in time. Our team is always happy to go the extra mile, and we’re so glad the portable unit helped while you waited. And yes — the annual maintenance contract really does pay off! We truly appreciate your trust in Southern Air!
Jimmy Jam F.
2 weeks ago
He did a wonderful job, no issues
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your 5-star review, Jimmy! We're glad to know you had a positive experience with Southern Air. Your support means a lot to us!
Kristen P.
2 weeks ago
We’ve had a great experience with Southern Air in Palatka, especially as members of their Comfort Club. It’s been a really great value for us because a technician comes out twice a year to check everything over and make sure our system is working well and staying on track.

This most recent visit was with Dylan, and he was excellent—professional, thorough, and easy to talk to. He cleaned our vent and spent real time going through the system to make sure everything was running exactly as it should. You could tell he cared about doing the job right, not rushing through it.

Highly recommend Southern Air, and if you’re considering the Comfort Club, it’s absolutely worth it.
Response from the owner:Kristen, thank you for the kind review and for being part of our Comfort Club. I’m glad the twice-a-year checkups have been a good value for you, and that Dylan took the time to thoroughly go through your system, clean the vent, and make sure everything was running the way it should. We really appreciate the recommendation.
marianne G.
2 weeks ago
Very helpful and explained situation
Response from the owner:Thank you! We're glad we could help and appreciate your kind words.
James S.
3 weeks ago
Very knowledgeable and polite, did a great job
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words, James. I'm delighted to hear that you found our team knowledgeable and polite. We're grateful for your positive feedback and for choosing Southern Air!
Daniel B.
3 weeks ago
Great
Response from the owner:Hi Daniel, thanks for your review! We’re glad you had a good experience and would love to make your next one a 5-star.
Excellent and friendly service.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Marshall, for your kind words! I'm delighted to hear that you found our service excellent and our team friendly. Your satisfaction is our priority!
Joanne J.
4 weeks ago
Albert was awesome!
Response from the owner:Thanks for the shoutout! Damon always appreciates hearing this.
John N.
1 month ago
Jamar was very knowledgeable and effective- appreciate the excellent technical knowledge and helping me understand the system, fantastic technician!! Thanks!!!
Response from the owner:Thanks so much for the awesome feedback! We’re glad Jason took great care of you and helped make things easier to understand. We’ll be sure to let him know you gave him a shoutout!
Ronald C.
1 month ago
Justine is an outstanding technician. Very friendly, life family.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words, Ronald. It's wonderful to hear that Justine made such a strong impression with her friendly and personable service; she's truly an asset to our team. We appreciate your feedback.
Linda L.
1 month ago
Very polite gentleman and very thorough. Explained everything. Great business. Did regular maintenance I can always count on southern air. Justin was the technician. 2/9/26
Response from the owner:We’re thrilled Randy could take such good care of you! It’s great to know you can always rely on Southern Air for your maintenance needs.
Marie R.
1 month ago
Our technician Albert was friendly. He made sure to let us know all was running well.
I would recommend them.
Response from the owner:Friendly service and peace of mind is what we aim for. Thank you for your thoughtful words and for recommending us!
Tera V.
1 month ago
Robert was professional, efficient, knowledgeable, and polite. We highly recommend Southern Air!
Response from the owner:We are so glad to hear it! Thank you for your review!
Penny L.
1 month ago
I was having issues with a noise coming from my condenser. Justin came out very quickly and checked it for me. He explained what the issue could be in a way I could understand. Great technician!
Response from the owner:Thank you, Penny! I'm glad you had such a positive experience with Dylan and found our service thorough. Your feedback means a lot to us!
Kellie
1 month ago
Robert is an excellent HVAC technician! I have been using Artic Air for years and became disgusted with their high pressure sales tactics. Robert handled my questions professionally-very informative. I highly recommend Southern Air. If I could give 10 stars I would! Thank you to the entire Southern Air team for their professionalism and prompt response.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Kellie, for your glowing review! We're glad to hear that Robert's professionalism and informative approach made a positive impression on you. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we're grateful to have you as part of our Southern Air family.
Walter G. D.
1 month ago
Timely, friendly, and professional says it all. With Jamar Witt and Southern Air, I am confident that I will get the longest life and best service from my air conditioner unit!
Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your experience! We’re thrilled to hear that Randy and the Southern Air team are keeping your AC running efficiently. We appreciate your trust and look forward to continuing to serve you!
HAROLD J.
1 month ago
Justin Coates did an outstanding job diagnosing my HVAC system he found the problem within 20 minutes of arrival time which was very early in the morning with the temperature outside being 23 degrees in Florida ouch. Very professional and knowledgeable. I can’t thank him and Southern Air enough great company
Response from the owner:Hi Harold!
We appreciate the review and are glad to be of service!
Nicole C.
1 month ago
This company came highly recommended and we were not disappointed! Quick response times and very personable staff. Jason certainly knows his job and does it well.
Response from the owner:Hi Nicole, thank you for sharing your experience! I'm happy to hear that Jason and the team provided prompt and personable service. Your recommendation means a lot to us!
Karen
1 month ago
Robert is outstanding! So thorough
Response from the owner:Thank you, Karen! I'm pleased to hear that you found Robert's work thorough and outstanding. We appreciate your kind words and your support of Southern Air.
Terri S.
1 month ago
Albert was professional and made sure we were well informed of the work being done.
Response from the owner:Thank you Terri for the kind review and your many years of loyalty to Southern Air!
Michelle B.
1 month ago
Justin was knowledgeable, efficient, professional and explained everything to my satisfaction. Please keep him employed because I don’t want anyone else to provide services to me.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Michelle! I'm delighted to hear that Justin impressed you with his knowledge and professionalism. We look forward to continuing to provide you with excellent service.
Lenee B.
2 months ago
From start to finish I had a great experience. TJ came out to my house to give me a quote on a new HVAC system and was great. David and Andrew came out and installed our new unit. They were professional, polite, on time, knowledgeable and patient with all of our questions. The new system looks and sounds great.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Lenee, for sharing your wonderful experience with us! We're pleased to hear that TJ provided a thorough quote and that David and Andrew were professional and attentive during the installation. It's fantastic to know you're satisfied with the new system!
Justin always does a great job.
Response from the owner:Thank you! We’re glad to hear you’re happy with our work and look forward to serving you again.

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