Mini split-system air-conditioners, also known as mini-splits, offer a multitude of potential applications across residential, commercial, and institutional settings. Typically, these systems are installed in multifamily housing or retrofitted to houses with "non-ducted" heating systems such as hydronic, radiant panels, or space heaters fueled by wood, kerosene, or propane. They are also an ideal choice for small apartments and room additions where extending or installing distribution ductwork for a central air-conditioning system is not feasible.

Similar to central systems, mini-splits comprise two key components: an outdoor compressor/condenser and an indoor air-handling unit. These components are linked via a conduit that houses the power cable, refrigerant tubing, suction tubing, and condensate drain.