How to Install Ionization in your Mini-Split!
HypoAir has a range of ionization solutions for every home. For smaller spaces, we have the Mold Guard and Air Angel units. For larger spaces, we have the Whole-Home Ionizer, model BP-2400. This unit is rated for use in up to 2400 ft2 spaces, and can be installed in a central air conditioning system air handler OR a mini-split. If your home has a mini-split as its main air-conditioner (or even in addition to a central system), you can use our BP-2400 “Ice” model, which although it was originally designed to keep mold out of ice machines, is a perfect fit for most mini-splits. This is because the ionization heads are located on 2 long leads, which can easily be placed in the airflow of the unit.
First of all, lets go over the parts of a mini-split. Mini-splits are really just smaller versions of a central unit, and they can be “ducted” or “ductless”. For our purposes, a ducted mini-split can use the regular BP-2400 unit (it’s just a smaller version of a central air handler), so we will focus on the ductless version here.
Below is a diagram of a typical ductless mini-split. You’ll see that there are 2 main parts, a condenser (always located outside) and an evaporator (always located inside). They are connected by refrigerant lines, one that brings cool liquid inside and one that brings hot gas outside to be recompressed and recycled. The BP-2400i (for “Ice”) will be installed in the evaporator.
Source: How Ductless Mini-Split Systems Work
Now, if your mini-split is several years old and you’ve never cleaned it, this would be a good time to do so (before installation of the ionizer). We have an article on that right here! Once you’ve cleaned it to your satisfaction, we suggest letting a licensed electrician or HVAC tech install the ionization unit. Below, we have a photo of a mini-split with the cover removed. Basically, he’s going to be installing the ion generator (the blue boxy part) in any accommodating space within the unit (yellow circle), and then feeding the ion head leads either to A) the evaporating coil (where the air is cooled and mold can grow) or B) the air outlet, where ions can be carried into the room with the air. Either way, ions will enter the room and have a sanitizing effect on surfaces there as well, but if you have a problem with your mini-split smelling musty, it might be wise to go with placing the heads on the evaporator coil.
That’s it! The technician will connect the ionizer to the power of the unit, and it will always be on, sending ions into your space to reduce dust and microbes.
If you have any questions about how to improve air quality and cleanse your space with our ion units, please contact us for custom recommendations.
