flexibility

The Ductless Mini Split: All The Advantages Of A Heat Pump, And Then Some

When space for HVAC system installation is at a premium, but you still want all the benefits of a heat pump, consider installing a ductless mini split. These more compact heat pumps are just as powerful as a full-size system, but offer unique benefits all their own.

  • Easier installation: Mini splits are easier to install because they don't need a large duct network for air distribution. While the outdoor unit of a ductless mini split is about the same size as that of a regular heat pump, the indoor components are much smaller in size and are not restricted by being connected to a duct system. Up to four indoor air handling units are connected to the outdoor unit via a conduit than runs through the wall. The conduit houses the power cables, refrigerant lines and the drain for the condenser.

  • Freedom of placement: The indoor air handlers of the mini split can be placed almost anywhere in your home, limited only by the length of the connections to the outdoor unit. They can be arranged so that they don't interfere with room design or incorporated into a comfortable home environment.

  • Flexibility for zoned heating and cooling: Each indoor unit operates independently of the other, providing a separate thermostat for individualized temperature control. This allows mini splits to be used where they are needed and wanted to provide zoned heating and cooling. Combine one or more in a particular area or spread them out as needed.

  • Excellent efficiency: The lack of ductwork in a mini split means there is no chance of efficiency loss because of the air and energy leaks that can occur in ducted arrangements. This improves system efficiency and effectiveness, giving homeowners outstanding levels of home comfort at a lower cost--up to 30 percent less than traditional furnaces and air conditioners.

For more than 30 years, Air Assurance has brought expert HVAC sales, installation and service to customers in and around Tulsa and Broken Arrow. Contact us for more information on ductless mini split heat pump systems and how one can work for your northeastern Oklahoma home.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). Image courtesy of Shutterstock

Tips For Choosing A Programmable Thermostat

Choosing appropriate programmable thermostats is essential to homes' energy efficiency and comfort. The most common choice and the best choice to meet both ends is to choose digital, programmable thermostats. It is important that homeowners understand what type of heating and cooling system is installed in their homes before purchasing a thermostat. Depending on what kind of comfort options your system provides, there may be specific features your thermostat must have to operate those functions appropriately.  Another tip, is to make sure you have a battery backup thermostat.  This way, if your power were to go out, your thermostat can use the batteries to hold the programs you have set.  This way, there is no need to reprogram the thermostat after the power comes back on. There are also several other tips for choosing the right thermostat for your home.We recommend evaluating your schedule to determine whether you need a 7-day thermostat, a 5+2-day thermostat or a 5+1+1 day model. A seven day model affords a homeowner the most flexibility. If your daily schedule changes, then this is the best model for you. Our preferred 7 day, programmable thermostat is the Pro8000.Not only is the Honeywell Vision Pro 8000 a 7-day thermostat, but it comes with innovations that only the pros can provide. The display is easy to use, in fact, it's probably the easiest user friendly thermostat we have ever come across. The back-light on the display makes it very simple to read. This is one of the most energy efficient Programmable Thermostats on the market. It even comes with an Energy Star rating. A programmable thermostat like this can add up to 33% savings on your utilities!Other features that set this thermostat apart from the competition are that it has a programmable fan mode (not just on and off) which can provide better air filtration schedules, precision temperature control, and that it has time-keeping capabilities that take daylight savings into account. Some models have the capability to also control humidity levels without the need of a seperate humidistat. Other variations can give you the outdoor temperature on the inside thermostat display! This is a very low maintenance system and comes with a 5 year standard warranty from Air Assurance.  For more information or to purchase  the Honeywell Vision Pro 8000 for your home, please contact us. We also have information to help you with all your air quality needs.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about programmable thermostats and other HVAC topics. Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas.  To get started, check out our website or see our current promotions.