Mini-split ACs need professional maintenance about once yearly, although some contractors may recommend maintenance before and after the cooling season. Between professional services, change your mini-split filters at least every three months or sooner if your home has high levels of pet dander, dust, or other airborne debris or pollutants.
Mini-split ACs are versatile systems that can adapt to the needs of most homes. They’re efficient and effective in small and medium homes and can match or sometimes outperform central AC in larger homes. Some homeowners install mini-split ACs to support their existing central AC, such as in-home additions and remodeled or zoned areas.
Mini-split systems operate quietly, between 20 and 35 decibels or about the same level as a whisper. In comparison, the quietest central AC systems operate at about 50 decibels. Most central ACs run at about 60 decibels, equivalent to someone speaking to you from a meter away.