Mini Split Power Requirements (With Wire Size and Breaker Size)

Power requirements for mini split systems are:

110/120 Volt: Most mini split systems up to 12,000 BTUs can use this voltage.

208/220 Volt: 12,000 BTU higher.

But, strangely some 6000 BTU mini split ACs and heat pumps would use 208/230V power, but it is true.

Let’s get into the details. 

What’s Here

The Mini Split AC/Heat Pump is becoming the method of choice for heating and cooling home additions, workshops, and garages, just to name a few places popular for installation. Mini splits are powered by electricity, so there is the need to extend an electric service line to the area where the outdoor component will be located. 

This article focuses on the electrical connection that will provide the proper voltage and watts needed to power mini splits of different sizes. Easy-to-read charts are included, along with examples of how to use them, which will enable you to quickly find the information you need.

There are FAQs at the end of the article. 

How a Mini Split Works 

A mini split system may either be for a/c only, or a heat pump, which will provide both cooling and heating. They have similar electrical needs, so the information found here can apply to either type. 

The mini split has two main units. The condenser is the outdoor unit. The evaporator or air handler is the indoor unit. Between them is a line set, aka lineset, which includes two insulated copper tubes through which the refrigerant flows. Electrical wiring and a drain tube are often bundled with them. 

An electrical service line must be run from the main breaker panel in the building to the mini split outdoor unit. This provides all the power needed to run both components of the system. The size of this wire will be determined by the type and size of the mini split system being installed. 

The Critical Electrical Connection 

The normal configuration of the electrical connection for a mini split consists of the following:

 1. A dedicated circuit breaker or breakers in the main service panel of the building. These breakers act as the surge protector for the mini split.

 2. Wires of the appropriate gauge (thickness) for the mini split to be installed. These wires are to be run all the way from the main panel to a disconnect box on the outside of the building within just a few feet of where the outdoor unit will be located. Note – the lower the number of the gauge, the thicker the wire. For example, 12-gauge wire is thicker than 14-gauge wire.

 3. The disconnect box has either a switch or a removable “plug” that will shut off all power at that point. It may have another fuse or circuit breaker in it. The disconnect box is there so the power may be easily and safely removed from outside the building when the system needs maintenance or repair.

 4. The connecting cable provides electrical power to the entire system. This could either be wire that is approved for outdoor use, or an electrical whip, which is a waterproof tube which looks somewhat like a garden hose through which wires are run. Whichever one is used, the connecting cable extends power from the disconnect box to the condenser unit of the mini split.

Mini Split Power and Wire Requirements 

All electrical appliances and systems need wires of the correct size (gauge) to safely and efficiently handle the amount of current the system will use. Some of the smaller mini splits operate on 110 volts, while most need 220 volts. Here are some charts that will help you choose the correct wire gauges and circuit breakers for your system. 

110V Mini Split Power Requirements 

It is important to get the proper wiring for the safe, effective operation of a mini split heating and cooling system. 

110v Mini Split Wire Size

110V Mini SplitMinimum Circuit AmpacityWire Size
9000 BTU14 Amp12 Gauge
12000 BTU15 Amp12 Gauge

How many amps does a 12,000 BTU mini split use? You can see from the chart above that the answer is 14 amps. And to determine what size wire for 12000 BTU mini split? The chart tells you that you should use 12 gauge wire. 

110V Mini Split Breaker Size

110V Mini SplitBreaker Size
9000 BTU15 Amp
12000 BTU20 Amp

Do you need to know the recommended 12000 BTU mini split circuit breaker size? The chart shows that it should be 20 amp. Notice that the 9,000 BTU system only requires a 15 amp circuit breaker. This tells us that the more cooling power a system has, the more electrical power it will require. 

220V Mini Split Power Requirements 

As noted, all mini splits larger than 12000 BTUs use 220 power. 

220v Mini Split Wire Size

220V Mini SplitMinimum Circuit AmpacityWire Size
9000 BTU12 Amp12 Gauge
12000 BTU15 Amp12 Gauge
18000 BTU18 Amp10 Gauge
24000 BTU20 Amp10 Gauge
30000 BTU22 Amp10 Gauge
36000 BTU25 Amp10 Gauge

What size wire for 18,000 BTU mini split? This chart says you should use 10 gauge wire. The answer to: What size wire for 24000 BTU mini split? It is the same as the other larger sizes on the chart – 10 gauge. 

220V Mini Split Breaker Size

220V Mini SplitBreaker Size
9000 BTU15 Amp
12000 BTU15 Amp
18000 BTU20 Amp
24000 BTU25 Amp
30000 BTU30 Amp
36000 BTU30 Amp

What size breaker for 24,000 BTU mini split? A 25 amp circuit breaker is the correct size for a 24,000 BTU mini split. Using a 30-amp breaker is fine too. 

Why Power Requirements Matter for Mini Splits

Getting the right power requirements for your mini split system isn’t just a technical detail—it’s essential for the system’s safe and efficient operation. The size of the wire and the circuit breaker play a major role in ensuring that the system gets the correct amount of power it needs to function properly. Using wires that are too small can lead to overheating, and a wrongly sized circuit breaker can cause the system to malfunction or even fail prematurely. It’s important to understand that proper power connections prevent damage to your mini split system and keep it running smoothly over time.

Moreover, adhering to the manufacturer’s recommended power requirements directly impacts the system’s performance. When you get the wiring and breaker size right, your mini split will run efficiently, cooling or heating your space effectively without wasting energy. An undersized system can lead to higher operating costs, as it’ll struggle to meet the demand. Following these power specifications ensures your mini split not only operates at its best but also enjoys a longer lifespan, minimizing the need for costly repairs or replacements down the line.

Should I Use A 10/2 Or 10/3 Wire For A 220v Mini Split?

Definitely use 10/3 – and this should also have a ground wire (“10/3 w/ground”). While a 110v system only needs two wires to conduct the electricity, a 220v system requires three. Two of them are considered “hot”, and one of them is the “neutral”. The additional ground wire is a safety measure to prevent a house fire or an electric shock if there is excess electricity in the wiring system. 

Which One is Better? A 110 or 220 Mini Split? 

When choosing a mini split system, one of the most important decisions is whether to go with a 110V or 220V model. The key difference between the two lies in the power requirements, which directly affect the system’s performance and installation process. A 110V mini split typically supports smaller systems, usually up to 12,000 BTUs, making it ideal for smaller spaces like single rooms or small apartments. These units are easier to install because they don’t require extensive electrical modifications, and the wiring is less expensive. However, their cooling or heating capacity is limited compared to 220V systems.

On the other hand, 220V mini splits are designed for larger systems, ranging from 12,000 BTUs to 36,000 BTUs or more. These units are more powerful and suitable for larger spaces such as multi-room areas, homes, or offices. Though the initial installation costs may be higher due to the need for more expensive wiring and dedicated breakers, a 220V system offers better performance, energy efficiency, and a wider range of cooling and heating capabilities. Choosing between 110V and 220V depends on the size of the space you’re looking to condition and how much power your mini split system will need to effectively meet the demand.

It depends on what “better” means for you. Here are some ways to compare a 110v and a 220v mini split:

System Cost
Typically, a 220V mini split system will have a higher upfront cost than a 110V model of the same brand, BTU, and SEER rating. This price difference is largely due to the more powerful components required for a 220V system. A 220V mini split is designed for larger cooling or heating capacities, which often necessitates more advanced internal components and more robust build quality. However, this cost can vary depending on the brand, model, and any promotional discounts or sales. While the difference in cost may not be substantial for smaller units, it can become more pronounced when dealing with larger systems designed for extensive cooling or heating needs.

Installation Cost
When it comes to installation, a 220V mini split system generally requires more investment than a 110V system. This is because a 220V system demands additional electrical work to handle the higher voltage. Specifically, you’ll need a dedicated circuit breaker of the appropriate amperage, heavier gauge wiring to support the increased power load, and potentially more extensive electrical modifications to the home or building. These factors lead to higher labor and material costs for installation. In contrast, 110V mini splits are often more straightforward to install, requiring less electrical work and lower gauge wiring, making the overall installation process less expensive and simpler for smaller spaces.

Efficiency
The efficiency of a mini split system, measured by its SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio), is independent of whether the system runs on 110V or 220V power. Both 110V and 220V systems can have the same SEER rating, which reflects how effectively they use energy to cool or heat a space. Therefore, the voltage does not influence the efficiency of the system directly. What matters more in terms of efficiency is the size of the unit (measured in BTUs) and its overall design. Larger systems, regardless of whether they use 110V or 220V, tend to be more efficient in larger spaces, as they can handle the demand more effectively without overworking the compressor.

Operating Cost
When it comes to operating costs, the voltage of the mini split system does not significantly affect the ongoing electricity consumption, provided the systems are of the same BTU and SEER rating. A 220V mini split may have higher initial energy consumption due to its larger capacity, but this is balanced by its ability to cool or heat more efficiently in larger spaces. In comparison, a 110V mini split will consume less energy overall due to its smaller size and lower power requirements, but may not be as efficient when trying to cool or heat larger areas. Ultimately, the operating cost for either system will depend more on the size and efficiency of the unit, rather than the voltage it operates on.

Mini Split Power and Wire Size FAQs

What is 14 4 wire for mini split systems?

Some mini split heat pumps require a 4-conductor control cable. The installation manual for your ductless system should specify what wiring is required. 

Are there any 18,000 BTU mini split for 110 volt power? 

To our knowledge, only mini splits that are 12,000 BTU and smaller are available in 110v models. 18,000 BTU and larger all require 220 volts.

Can I Use a Mini Split on an Existing 110V Circuit?

In most cases, you cannot use a mini split on an existing 110V circuit, especially for units with higher cooling or heating capacities. Mini split systems typically require a dedicated circuit with the correct voltage and amperage to safely handle the power demands. While smaller systems (up to 12,000 BTUs) may operate on 110V, they still require their own dedicated circuit to ensure safe operation. For larger systems, especially those over 12,000 BTUs, a 220V circuit is required. Always consult the manufacturer’s specifications and a licensed electrician to ensure proper installation.

How Do I Upgrade My Home for a 220V Mini Split?

Upgrading your home to accommodate a 220V mini split system involves several important steps. First, you need to have a dedicated 220V circuit installed, as mini splits require higher voltage than standard 110V outlets. This will likely involve upgrading your home’s electrical panel if it doesn’t already have space for an additional 220V breaker. You’ll need to hire a licensed electrician to run the necessary wiring from the panel to the mini split’s outdoor unit, ensuring the proper wire gauge and breaker size according to the system’s power requirements.

Next, the electrician will install a disconnect box near the outdoor unit. This box allows for safe power shutoff during maintenance or in case of emergencies. The indoor and outdoor units will be connected by a line set, which includes refrigerant lines and wiring, but the electrical connection for power will need to meet the system’s amperage and voltage specifications. Additionally, ensure that the outdoor unit is properly located, with enough clearance for ventilation and installation of the lineset. Once the electrical upgrades and installation are complete, the system should be ready for use. Always follow manufacturer guidelines to ensure safety and efficiency.

Written by

Rene has worked 10 years in the HVAC field and now is the Senior Comfort Specialist for PICKHVAC. He holds an HVAC associate degree and EPA & R-410A Certifications.
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1 thought on “Mini Split Power Requirements (With Wire Size and Breaker Size)”

  1. “The additional ground wire is a safety measure to prevent a house fire or an electric shock if there is excess electricity in the wiring system. ”

    Excess electricity in the wiring system. That’s cute.

    Reply

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