How Many Amps Does a Mini-Split Use?
Mini-Split draws about 4.2 amps at 240 volts (1,000 watts running) and briefly spikes to around 6.3 amps at startup. Mini-Split runs on its own dedicated 240 V circuit — a 1,000 W load calls for at least a 15 A double-pole breaker (your unit's nameplate may require more).
Amps = watts ÷ volts. Enter the wattage from your appliance's nameplate or label for an exact figure.
Current draw — a mini-split
4.2 A
- At 240 V
- 1,000 W
- Typical breaker
- 15 A
Breaker figure is guidance for a simple resistive load, sized at 125% for continuous running — confirm against the nameplate and a licensed electrician.
Mini-Split amperage at 120 V and 240 V
Same 1,000 W load — the current halves when the voltage doubles. Mini-Split is typically a 240 V appliance in US homes.
| Draw | Watts | Amps at 120 V | Amps at 240 V |
|---|---|---|---|
| Running | 1,000 W | 8.3 A | 4.2 A |
| Starting (surge) | 1,500 W | 13 A | 6.3 A |
The startup surge lasts a fraction of a second — it matters for generator sizing and breaker trip curves, not for your electric bill.
Breaker and circuit for a mini-split
Mini-Split runs on its own dedicated 240 V circuit — a 1,000 W load calls for at least a 15 A double-pole breaker (your unit's nameplate may require more). For a dedicated circuit, guidance is a 15 A breaker with 14 AWG copper (75°C terminations) — sized at 125% of the running current because it runs 3+ hours at a time (NEC 210.20).
Guidance only — actual circuit sizing depends on your unit's nameplate, wire run length, and local code. Confirm with a licensed electrician. See the wire & breaker size chart for the full NEC ampacity table.
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