Definition
A split system is an air conditioner or heat pump divided between two cabinets: an outdoor condensing unit containing the compressor and condenser coil, and an indoor furnace or air handler containing the evaporator coil and blower. Insulated copper refrigerant lines and low-voltage control wiring connect the halves, and the pair is rated together as a matched system.
Also called: Split-system AC, Split heat pump
Why it matters to you.
Most ducted homes across Boyle, Mercer, Lincoln, Garrard and Jessamine counties use a split system, with the indoor half usually a natural gas or propane furnace or an electric air handler in a basement, crawlspace, closet or attic. Because efficiency ratings apply to the matched indoor-outdoor combination, a new outdoor unit paired with an old coil can fall short of its rated SEER2.
Practical guidance.
When replacing either half, ask whether the new outdoor unit and indoor coil are a certified matched combination and which refrigerant the new equipment uses, since many new systems use A2L refrigerants such as R-454B. Line-set, refrigerant and electrical work is licensed technician work.
About this definition
Written by the Feistritzer Heating & Air Conditioning team — family owned and operated in Danville since 1976, Kentucky HVAC license M02584. Definitions inform; a whole-system diagnosis in your home decides.