In recent years, mini split systems—also known as ductless heat pumps—have become the go-to HVAC solution across Europe and East Asia. While still gaining traction in North America, these systems have long been a staple in homes and businesses overseas. But what makes them so popular in these regions?
Older Buildings, Modern Needs
Mini split systems have become incredibly popular in Europe and East Asia largely because of how well they fit into the existing infrastructure and the age of the buildings. Many homes in these regions are decades or even centuries old, built long before central HVAC systems were common. Retrofitting these buildings with ductwork is often impractical or prohibitively expensive. Mini splits, which require no ducts and minimal structural changes, offer a simple and efficient solution.
In Europe, it’s common to find homes with thick stone or brick walls and limited space for large mechanical systems. Similarly, in East Asia, especially in densely populated cities like Tokyo or Seoul, apartments are compact and vertically stacked, leaving little room for traditional HVAC systems. Mini splits, with their small indoor units and flexible installation options, are ideal for these environments.
Many of these homes were originally heated with radiators and had no central cooling at all. Mini splits provide both heating and cooling in one system, making them a modern upgrade that doesn’t require a complete overhaul of the home’s infrastructure. Their ability to deliver zoned comfort—heating or cooling individual rooms independently—also aligns well with the way people live in these regions, where energy efficiency and personal comfort are highly valued.
The combination of older buildings, space constraints, and the need for efficient, flexible climate control makes mini splits a natural fit for homes across Europe and East Asia.
Trulli houses in Alberobello, Puglia Italy.
Compact Living
Urban living in cities like Tokyo, Seoul, Paris, and Berlin often means smaller apartments and limited wall space. Mini splits are compact, wall-mounted, and don’t require bulky ductwork, making them perfect for tight spaces.
This is especially important in older European buildings where retrofitting central air systems would be costly and invasive.
Mini splits allow for zoned heating and cooling, meaning each room can be set to a different temperature. This is ideal for multi-story homes or buildings with varying sun exposure.
In countries like China and South Korea, where winters can be freezing in the north and mild in the south, this flexibility is a game-changer.
Environmental Regulations
Believe it or not, European and East Asian countries often have higher energy costs and stricter environmental regulations than the U.S. Mini splits are incredibly efficient, with SEER ratings often above 20, making them ideal for reducing both energy bills and carbon footprints.
In Japan, for example, energy efficiency is deeply embedded in building codes and consumer habits. Mini splits, with their inverter-driven compressors, adjust output based on demand, using far less energy than traditional systems.
Government Incentives and Policies
Many European and East Asian governments offer rebates, tax credits, or subsidies for installing high-efficiency systems like mini splits. These incentives make them more affordable and attractive to homeowners and landlords alike.
For example:
- Germany offers subsidies for heat pump installations.
- Japan has long promoted energy-efficient appliances through its “Top Runner” program.
Cultural Values and Lifestyle Habits
Culture plays a significant role in the widespread adoption of mini split systems in Europe and East Asia, influencing not just how people live, but how they think about comfort, energy use, and technology in the home.
In East Asia, particularly in countries like Japan and South Korea, there is a strong cultural emphasis on precision, cleanliness, and personal control. People are accustomed to tailoring their environment to their exact preferences, and mini splits support this with zoned temperature control, remote operation, and smart features. It’s common for each room to have its own unit, allowing individuals to adjust the temperature to their liking without affecting others. This aligns with a broader cultural value of respecting personal space and minimizing disruption to others.
In Japan, for example, energy conservation is deeply ingrained in daily life. The concept of “mottainai,” which expresses regret over waste, influences how people use electricity and appliances. Mini splits, with their high efficiency and ability to cool or heat only the rooms in use, fit perfectly into this mindset. The same goes for South Korea, where high-tech living and smart home integration are widespread. Mini splits are often part of a larger ecosystem of connected devices that enhance convenience and efficiency.
