When You Should Use a Ductless, Mini-Split System

If you’re planning to add livable space to your home, you might find that ductless mini-split systems are the perfect way to heat and cool it. A mini-split refers to an air conditioner or heat pump that works just like a central system minus the ductwork.

Mini-splits work well for:

• Add-on rooms.

• Attic or basement retrofits.

• Garages and workshops.

• Stand-alone buildings.

They provide the same level of comfort as central systems do, often with better efficiency. They also solve problems associated with remodeling projects where the ductwork won’t fit easily or the existing HVAC system can’t be extended.

Besides remarkable comfort, mini-splits offer more advantages, like:

• Easy installation. These systems come complete from the factory, where the refrigerant is installed. A mini-split heat pump or air conditioner has an indoor air handler and an outdoor condenser. A flexible conduit contains the refrigerant line, the wiring and a drain line.When installing a mini-split, the technician has to drill a hole for the conduit, position the air handler and condenser, and connect the two. There is no ductwork to install and seal to deliver the conditioned air.

• High energy efficiency. Mini-split systems exceed the energy efficiency of central systems because there are no thermal or air leaks through ductwork. They often have upgraded features that increase their efficiency even more.

When not to use a mini-split:

As advantageous as mini-splits are, they don’t work in every situation. Homes with lots of hallways and interior doors will block the free circulation of air from a mini-split. They’re also more expensive per ton than central systems. If you’re remodeling and need a new HVAC system, it might make more financial sense to install new equipment for the whole house than invest in a mini-split for a small space.

As you move forward with the addition or retrofit, exploring the benefits of mini-split systems will ensure your long term comfort and satisfaction. To learn more, contact Air Assurance, providing trusted HVAC services for Broken Arrow homeowners.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about ductless mini-split systems and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

Ductless Systems are Perfect for Home Additions

When adding a new addition to your home, one of the most important considerations is how to most efficiently heat and cool this new space. In this situation, a ductless system can play a superior role. Here is how.

What is a Ductless System?

Ductless heating and cooling systems, sometimes called mini-split systems, consist of an outdoor condenser and an indoor unit containing the evaporator and air handler. A refrigerant line and cables connect the two units through a hole in an exterior wall.Ductless systems operate similarly to central air. The biggest difference is that there is no need for ductwork. Refrigerant travels from the compressor to the indoor unit, which is usually mounted on an exterior wall. In the cooling mode, as air circulates through the indoor unit it moves over the evaporator coils and loses heat. The cooled air is then blown directly into the room.

Why it's Perfect for Additions

When you add a new space to your home, the heating and cooling load automatically changes. This means that the current HVAC system will lose efficiency if you simply extend ductwork to the new space. Buying a brand new, larger HVAC system just because you have added new area to your home can be very costly. A mini-split system is a more efficient and a less expensive option, especially if you account for the extra ductwork you would otherwise need, the heating and cooling load calculations that would need to be performed and the price of installing a new whole-home system.A mini-split system is also easy to install and easily customized to meet the requirements of new additions. Each comes with its own thermostat so you can adjust the heating or cooling according to the particular needs of the new space. In addition, each outdoor unit of a mini-split can support several indoor air handlers. If you add more rooms later on, you don’t have to purchase full mini-split systems each time.

For more about getting a ductless system for your Broken Arrow home, please contact us at Air Assurance.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “DoublePHOTO studio/Shutterstock”

Tips for Tackling Your Ductless Maintenance

Ductless systems are attractive to homeowners for many reasons. Some may appreciate the versatile installation options when no other option seemed practical. Zoned point-of-use operation and high efficiency components are certainly favorites when energy bills arrive. Low-profile components won't disturb those who enjoy peace and quiet. Whichever aspect of your ductless system you enjoy most, make the most of your system with regular ductless maintenance.

Tackling Ductless Maintenance

Like their larger central system cousins, ductless systems use the same components to provide efficient cooling and heating. They're just packaged differently -- more compact and accessible than central units. Stay on top of the following maintenance tips and enjoy better comfort and lower energy bills this summer:

• Air filtration - It's important to keep the air filtration parts clean. The filters capture dust, germs and other contaminants to enhance indoor air quality and protect the evaporator coil and fan motor. Wash the filters by hand and let them air dry before you re-install them.

• Coil cleaning - The evaporator coil is where heat exchange takes place. To access the coil, remove the air handling cabinet. Inspect the coil for mold development and dirt. Use a disinfectant foaming coil cleaner to clean the coil. Follow instructions thoroughly, as some foam sprays will drip away on their own and others you'll need to use a soft cloth to remove.

• Drainage - The condensate pan is where condensation collects and is drained from your unit. Check the pan for signs of mold and algae. If you see any, pour a cup of 50/50 bleach and water solution into the pan.

• Compressor/condenser unit - The unit located outside the home contains the compressor and condenser coil. These components need to be rinsed off each month you use your ductless system. A dirty condenser coil degrades cooling and heating efficiency, and a dirty compressor can overheat. Make sure the power is turned off for safety when you spray the unit with a garden hose.

For more information about ductless maintenance in your Broken Arrow home, please contact the experts at Air Assurance for the answers.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “concept w/Shutterstock”