A Redditor took to the platform to inquire about a specific type of heat pump and why it gets so much perceived hate. 

Posting in the r/hvacadvice subreddit, they asked why so many people didn't like multi-zone mini split heat pumps. They explained that their two-story, 1,400-square-foot space didn't give much option for central heating, so they wanted to go with a multi-zone, ductless mini-split heat pump for their HVAC, but everything they read about the systems was bad. 

"Reasons listed are usually leaks or cost of maintenance/replacement, but the technician I talked to offered a 10 year service warranty and said he has not run into any issues like that with these systems," they wrote. "It seems much less invasive to run a small refrigerant pipe instead of a bunch of ducting. I love the control that they offer, I barely spend time upstairs so I don't want to needlessly heat or cool areas where I don't spend time. They are cost effective and efficient, but again, people seem to like to bash them."

They concluded by asking for advice: "I'd love to hear anyone's first hand experience, not just an internet expert's opinion. I can't seem to wrap my head around why people hate these systems so much."

Multi-zone mini split heat pump systems are a means of connecting one outdoor condenser unit to multiple indoor units, allowing you to manage the temperature in multiple spaces without the need for expensive ductwork, and they highlight the flexibility that heat pumps can provide over a traditional HVAC system. They allow you to control individual rooms' temperatures and send heat where it's needed most, making them more efficient than traditional units, which saves you big money on your energy bill. 

If you want to make the switch to a heat pump system, TCD's HVAC partners, like Mitsubishi, can help. The company can walk you through your HVAC options and can save you money on your energy bills.

Smart upgrades that slash monthly energy bills

Mini-split systems like the one the Redditor described are a perfect way to regulate the temperature in unique spaces or keep different areas cool. Here are more resources to get you started on upgrading your HVAC system.

• Mitsubishi can help you find efficient heating and cooling solutions for your home and connect you with trusted installers
• Not ready to spend up front? Palmetto's $0-down HVAC leasing program can lower your energy costs by up to 50%
• TCD's HVAC Explorer makes it easy to access exclusive offers from preferred partners

Palmetto's leasing programs start as low as $99 a month and include 12 years of free maintenance, so you can enjoy your system worry-free. 

Pairing your new HVAC system with solar panels is the ultimate energy and money-saving hack to drive your energy bills even lower. TCD's Solar Explorer can help you find the system that's right for you, and save you up to $10,000 on your installation. The free Palmetto Home app can help you unlock up to $5,000 in rewards to use on a home upgrade by completing simple tasks like reducing your energy usage. 

What's the most you'd pay per month to put solar panels on your roof if there was no down payment? $200 or more 💰 $100 💸 $30 💵 I'd only do it if someone else paid for it 😎 Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.

Commenters were quick to explain why the systems got a bad rap. 

"Because it's new a[nd] scary," one said. "The world runs on them, I look after them from industrial, medical and residential. They work fine."

Another explained that much of the hate is because they aren't maintained properly.

"The units work great; when they work," they said, "90% of the time they aren't being maintained properly, and it's a pain in the ass to have to clean them. And every time a part fails it's an expensive fix."

Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices — and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club.