Ductless mini-split HVAC systems are as good as (if not better than) traditional HVAC systems with two key advantages: ductless systems do not require ductwork and plenty of space. It is the best option for older homes where installing ductwork is either impractical or has the potential to ruin the structure of the home. A ductless mini-split is also a good option if you need to upgrade or supplement your current HVAC system. If you opt to invest in a ductless heat pump, then it is vital that you hire a licensed HVAC technician. In this article, we discuss the benefits of a ductless mini-split system and the importance of a professional ductless installation.
What Is A Ductless Mini-Split?
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A ductless mini-split is a type of HVAC system that consists of two components: the indoor unit (air handler) and the outdoor unit (condenser). These components are linked by a conduit line that is passed through a small hole drilled through the wall. The conduit is made up of a power cable, a refrigerant line, and a condensate drain. A home or structure may have one or more air handlers to accommodate more space.
Mini-splits offer more flexibility. These units can keep your home cool during the hot months and keep it warm during the cold months. A ductless mini-split system circulates the refrigerant through the line connecting the condenser and the air handler. The refrigerant or coolant absorbs the hot air indoors and pushes it out of the house. When the heating mode is turned on, the process is simply reversed.
Benefits Of A Ductless Mini-Split System
There are reasons why many homeowners are transitioning from conventional HVAC systems to mini-splits. Here are a few:
Sleek Design
Ductless mini-splits come with sleek, modern designs that keep the unit compact and therefore unobtrusive. It offers flexibility in terms of placement. You can, for example, mount the unit onto a wall, suspend it from the ceiling, or just simply have it stand on the flat surface of the floor. These units are designed to fit into small spaces in the home without affecting the interior design.
Whisper-Quiet Operation
Many ductless mini-split models come with a sound rating that is about 19dB. At this frequency, a whisper is more audible than the unit. Not only is the design sleek and compact, but it is also likely you would not even notice that the system is even running.
Superior Home Comfort
Conventional HVAC systems tend to cycle on and cycle off while running. The system first runs until it reaches the set temperature, after which it turns off. The temperature will begin to fall gradually. When it reaches a set temperature, the unit cycles on again. While this is how many types of conventional systems work, it results in uneven indoor temperatures.
Ductless mini-splits, on the other hand, rely on inverter technology. As a result, the HVAC system is capable of delivering constant and continuous heating and cooling. This helps ensure that indoor temperature is at a constant and comfortable level. Ductless mini-splits can also eliminate moisture, which ensures that your indoor surrounding does not suffer from excess humidity.
Energy Efficiency
Ductless systems come with a high energy efficiency rating. Since they run on inverter technology, they use variable speed during heating or cooling, which helps reduce energy waste. The heat exchangers in the units are also intelligently designed with advanced control algorithms. This combination helps cut down your energy costs by at least 30%.
Creating Zones
A key advantage of ductless mini-splits is that they can be set up to heat or cool multiple zones or areas. Individual air handlers can be set up in every zone, allowing you better control and flexibility over your indoor environment. You could, for example, turn on the air handlers in the rooms that are occupied. You can also set up the system to maintain different temperatures in each zone so as to cater to the comfort needs of household members.
Single Zone
A single-zone ductless mini-split has one indoor unit and one outdoor unit. This is usually considered a supplemental option to heat/cool spaces that are underserved. It is also an excellent option for rooms that did not have air conditioning or heating.
Note that a single-zone system cannot be converted to a multi-zone. If you decide on a single-zone unit, it should be for a room or space that is underserved and not one that could become a part of a zone later.
Multiple Zones
Multiple zone systems are made up of a single outdoor unit and several indoor units. The outdoor compressor can be connected to as many as eight air handlers. With this type of setup, you enjoy the best in terms of control, efficiency, and comfort that other HVAC systems cannot offer.
Each air handler in a multi-zone system can function and be controlled independently. This means that you get to enjoy customized comfort for every zone. If there are zones that are unoccupied, you can simply turn off the air handlers in those areas. If you want a cooler temperature for your bedroom and a warmer temperature for the living room, you can do that as well.
Different Types Of Indoor Units
Indoor air handlers come in several types to match your comfort needs. When you choose a specific type of air handler, make sure to consider the layout of your house and your aesthetic preference.
- Wall-Mounted: This indoor unit is fairly common and considered the most affordable. With this type of unit, the air handler is installed on a wall, often at a minimum of six feet high. Wall-mounted systems are efficient and compact. They also offer a number of features and designs.
- Floor-Mounted: This indoor unit is an excellent option if wall installation is not possible, such as when space is limited. Floor-mounted indoor units may be mounted near the floor next to a wall. If your room has a low ceiling or a slanted wall, this is a perfect choice.
- Ceiling Cassette: Ceiling types are installed on the ceiling, often in the middle of the room. What is visible in the room is just the grille (or grilles). The rest of the mechanism is hidden in the ceiling, away from view. With this type, you can control the airflow and shut the vents if necessary.
- Ceiling Suspended: This system is designed to be suspended a few inches from the ceiling. It blends well with the living space and is very effective for cooling large spaces. This is the type often found in offices.
Get A Professional Ductless Installation
The ductless mini-split system is a far more complex system than it looks. Installation of this system should be a well-planned and executed process, which is why it should never be a DIY project. It should only be done by a trained professional. Having a qualified HVAC technician install your system means you can expect the unit to deliver optimum performance and efficiency every time.
A professional HVAC technician can provide assistance from start to finish. A technician, for example, can help you decide on the best type of system to use, install the unit, and check the installation. By hiring a professional technician, you can enjoy the following benefits:
Getting The Right System
The correct HVAC system should match your heating and cooling needs and requirements. This is the only way to ensure that it will work efficiently throughout its lifespan. A professional technician has the training and knowledge to assess your existing structure and heating and cooling needs to identify the proper ductless system size and capacity for your home. Without this information, you may have a system that is not only ineffective but also costly to use. You will then have to contend with poor performance, high power costs, and low air quality.
Safe And Easy Installation
Generally, you can expect the installation of a ductless mini-split system to take just a few hours. However, it is not that simple. Only a technician who has the training, extensive experience, and proper tools can ensure correct and safe installation.
A ductless mini-split is a sophisticated HVAC system. Technicians even have to undergo years of training and certification to be able to handle different HVAC components and models. This is required of them to ensure that they know how and why a system or a specific component works. Unless you have the training, never try to install a ductless mini-split system yourself.
There are, of course, safety mechanisms installed by ductless manufacturers on their products. However, a small mistake can still damage the system irreparably if it is not handled correctly. When an HVAC system is installed properly, it will last for many years and perform efficiently.
Better Efficiency And Longer Lifespan
If your ductless system was installed correctly, then you can expect efficiency and longevity. Systems that were incorrectly installed or were damaged as a result of faulty installation and handling will not be as effective and efficient. This could raise your power cost and increase the likelihood of poor performance.
You can also expect a better return on your investment. HVAC systems, after all, cost a pretty penny and you want optimum efficiency from the system that you are likely going to have to use for many years.
Peace Of Mind
Only hire an unlicensed HVAC contractor if you want to spend a lot of money on installation, repairs, and replacements. Unlicensed HVAC contractors may or may not know what they are doing and will not be able to offer you a guarantee on their work. If problems arise later, they will not be able to provide you with the support you need. You likely will also bear the cost of the repairs yourself. With a licensed technician, you are covered by guarantees and warranties.
Licensed HVAC technicians can also offer damage insurance just in case something goes wrong during the installation. There are state codes and city codes that make this coverage compulsory so you are protected as a consumer. Many ductless manufacturers will void a warranty if it is installed by someone who does not possess the proper licenses. Therefore, hiring a licensed HVAC ductless installer means that your warranty will remain intact.
Conclusion
Hiring a licensed and qualified technician to install your ductless mini-split system will help you get the job done in a timely, safe, and accurate manner. You can trust a professional technician to give you the right service at a reasonable price.
Check Out One Of Our Ductless Installation Projects
Mitsubishi Ductless Installation Project In Rocky Hill, New Jersey
Call PFO Heating & Air Conditioning To Learn More About Ductless HVAC Systems
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