Definition
A ductless mini-split is a heat pump with an outdoor compressor connected by a slim refrigerant line set to one or more indoor heads mounted on walls or ceilings. Each head heats and cools its own zone without ductwork. Most use variable-speed inverter compressors, and single-zone and multi-zone configurations are both common.
Also called: Mini-split, Ductless heat pump
Why it matters to you
Many older Vancouver and Portland-area homes heat with electric baseboards or wall heaters and have no ducts, and garages, additions and ADUs often sit outside the main system. A ductless mini-split adds efficient heat and first-time cooling to those spaces without building duct runs.
Practical guidance
Rinse or vacuum the washable filters in each indoor head on the manufacturer's schedule and keep the outdoor unit clear of debris. Line-set, refrigerant charging and electrical connections require a licensed technician.
About this definition
Written by the Home Energy Group team — a family-owned HVAC company celebrating 25 years of comfort & care across SW Washington and the Portland metro, licensed in Washington (WA LIC# HOMEEGI003J7) and Oregon (OR CCB# 184255). Definitions inform; an on-site diagnosis decides.
