#mini splits

As the demand for efficient and customizable cooling solutions rises, ductless mini-split systems are becoming increasingly popular. Whether you're looking to cool a single room or your entire home, understanding the options and how they compare can help you make an informed decision.

Introduction to Ductless Mini-Split Systems

Ductless mini-split systems are a type of air conditioning system that, as the name suggests, doesn't require ductwork to distribute air throughout your home. Unlike traditional HVAC systems that use a network of ducts to push air from a central unit, ductless mini-splits consist of an outdoor compressor/condenser unit and one or more indoor air-handling units.

These indoor units are typically mounted on the wall and are connected to the outdoor unit via refrigerant lines, drain lines, and electrical wiring. Each indoor unit can be controlled independently, allowing for zoned cooling and heating, which can result in significant energy savings.

How Ductless Mini-Split Systems Work

The operation of a ductless mini-split system is relatively simple. The outdoor unit compresses refrigerant and sends it to the indoor units, which absorb heat from the indoor air. The cooled air is circulated back into the room while the heat is expelled. In heating mode, the process is reversed, with the system extracting heat from the outdoor air and bringing it indoors.

Each indoor unit has its thermostat, allowing you to set different temperatures in different rooms or zones. This zoned cooling and heating capability is one of the key advantages of ductless mini-splits, as it allows you to customize the comfort level in each area of your home while also conserving energy.

Benefits of Ductless Mini-Split Systems

1. Energy Efficiency: Ductless mini-split systems are known for their energy efficiency. Traditional HVAC systems can lose up to 30% of energy through ductwork, especially if the ducts are old, poorly insulated, or have leaks. Ductless systems eliminate this loss, making them more efficient in delivering cooled or heated air directly to the target area. Additionally, the ability to control the temperature in individual zones means you can avoid cooling or heating unoccupied rooms, further reducing energy consumption.

2. Flexible Installation: One of the most significant advantages of ductless mini-split systems is their flexibility in installation. Since there's no need for ductwork, these systems can be installed in virtually any room or building, regardless of existing infrastructure. This makes them ideal for homes without existing ducts, as well as for room additions, converted garages, or other spaces where extending ductwork would be impractical or costly.

3. Improved Indoor Air Quality: Ductless mini-split systems can also contribute to better indoor air quality. Traditional ducted systems can accumulate dust, pollen, and other allergens over time, which can then be circulated throughout your home. Ductless systems, on the other hand, use multi-stage filtration systems in each indoor unit to capture and remove contaminants from the air before it is recirculated. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with allergies or respiratory issues.

4. Quiet Operation: Ductless mini-split systems are known for their quiet operation. The indoor units are designed to operate with minimal noise, often producing no more than a low hum. The outdoor unit is also typically quieter than a central air conditioning system, making ductless mini-splits a great choice for bedrooms, home offices, or other areas where noise levels are a concern.

5. Customizable Comfort: The ability to control the temperature in individual zones allows for high customization. This is especially useful in homes with varying cooling and heating needs, such as multi-story homes or spaces with large windows that receive a lot of sunlight. Family members can set the temperature in their rooms to their liking, ensuring everyone is comfortable without wasting energy on unoccupied spaces.

Comparing Ductless Mini-Split Systems to Traditional Air Conditioning Systems

When deciding between a ductless mini-split system and a traditional air conditioning system, you must consider your home's and lifestyle's specific needs. Below, we compare these two systems across several key factors.

1. Installation and Cost:

Ductless Mini-Splits: Installing ductless mini-split systems is generally more straightforward and less invasive than traditional systems. Since no ductwork is required, the process typically involves mounting the indoor units and connecting them to the outdoor unit via refrigerant lines. This can lower installation costs, especially for homes without existing ductwork. However, the cost of the individual units can be higher, particularly if you need multiple indoor units to cover your entire home.

Traditional Air Conditioning Systems: Installing a traditional HVAC system can be more complex and expensive, particularly in homes without existing ducts. The installation process may involve extensive ductwork, which can be disruptive and costly. However, central air conditioning systems can be more cost-effective if you're cooling a large home with an existing duct system.

2. Energy Efficiency:

Ductless Mini-Splits: As mentioned earlier, ductless systems are typically more energy-efficient because they eliminate energy loss through ducts. Cooling or heat individual zones also allows for more targeted energy use.

Traditional Air Conditioning Systems: While modern central air conditioning systems can be quite efficient, they may still lose energy through ductwork, particularly if the ducts are old or poorly insulated. However, newer systems with high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings can still offer excellent energy efficiency.

3. Aesthetics and Space Considerations:

Ductless Mini-Splits: Ductless mini-split systems have a minimalistic design, with indoor units typically mounted on walls or ceilings. While some people may find the indoor units visually intrusive, various design options are available, including recessed ceiling units or units that blend with the décor.

Traditional Air Conditioning Systems: Traditional systems have the advantage of being less visible, with most components hidden within walls, ceilings, or basements. However, ductwork and large outdoor units can occupy valuable space and may not be ideal for smaller homes.

4. Maintenance:

Ductless Mini-Splits: Ductless systems require regular maintenance, including cleaning or replacing filters and checking the refrigerant lines. However, they are generally easier to maintain than traditional systems since there are no ducts to clean or inspect.

Traditional Air Conditioning Systems: Central air conditioning systems require regular maintenance of both the indoor unit and the ductwork. This can involve cleaning ducts, checking for leaks, and ensuring the entire system runs efficiently. Neglecting maintenance can lead to decreased efficiency and higher energy bills.

5. Lifespan:

Ductless Mini-Splits: Ductless mini-split systems can last 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance. Their longevity makes them a worthwhile investment, particularly for homeowners looking for a long-term cooling solution.

Traditional Air Conditioning Systems: Traditional HVAC systems also have a lifespan of around 15 to 20 years, depending on the quality of the installation and how well the system is maintained. However, the ductwork can add complexity to the system, potentially leading to more frequent repairs.

Choosing the Right System for Your Home

When choosing between a ductless mini-split system and a traditional air conditioning system, it's crucial to consider your home's specific needs, your budget, and your long-term goals.

1. Consider Your Home's Layout: If your home lacks existing ductwork or has areas that are difficult to cool or heat, a ductless mini-split system may be the best option. On the other hand, if you have a large home with existing ducts, a traditional central air conditioning system might be more cost-effective.

2. Budget Considerations: While ductless systems can have higher upfront costs due to the need for multiple indoor units, they can offer long-term savings through increased energy efficiency and lower operating costs. It's essential to weigh the initial investment against potential savings over time.

3. Comfort and Customization: If you're looking for a system that allows for customizable comfort in different areas of your home, a ductless mini-split system is likely the better choice. The ability to control the temperature in individual zones can enhance comfort and reduce energy waste.

4. Aesthetics and Space: If you're concerned about the visual impact of the indoor units or have limited space for installation, consider the design options available for ductless systems. Alternatively, a traditional system with hidden ductwork might be more suitable if you prefer a system with minimal visible components.

Ductless mini-split systems and traditional air conditioning systems each have their advantages and disadvantages. Your choice will depend on your home's layout, your budget, your energy efficiency goals, and your personal preferences.

Ductless mini-splits offer excellent energy efficiency, customizable comfort, and flexible installation options, making them ideal for many homes. However, traditional air conditioning systems can be more cost-effective for larger homes with existing ducts and offer a more discreet aesthetic.

As  your vehicle requires a regular oil change, your air conditioning system requires too! Continue reading this article to overcome the AC repair issues, 

 With that said, no critical issue can be diagnosed without the eye of a qualified technician.  Even if it's a simple water heater repair. Thus, having a regular checkup to keep your mini splits cool around your home is mandatory and to understand it more clearly here is all you need to know!

Common AC Repair Problems- Refrigerant Leaks- The chemical that absorbs heat from your home and rejects the heat to the outdoor unit, delivering cool air back into your home/occupied space. This can impact your  ductless heating and cooling systems, which eventually will hamper the indoor air quality. 

Signs of an AC refrigerant leak;

Air coming from vents isn’t cool.

Unexpected increase in cooling cost.

A hissing sound from the outdoor unit.

Access indoor humidity. 

If these issues are observed the refrigerant leak may include repairing or replacing the unit where the leak has occurred along with the unit recharging. 

HVAC Drainage Issues - As per the Environmental Protection Agency it is mandated that only a certified technician can take care of the HVAC installation as well as recharge the HVAC unit. An air conditioner’s cooling process produces condensation, which flows away from the equipment, allowing the unit to function smoothly. 

Too much condensation hinders the performance of the AC system and it could cause damage to the unit’s components.There are 3 possible drain issues to look for in your commercial air conditioning troubleshooting process.

Drain trap

Mold Growth

Water leakage spilling.

This can be an indication to schedule an appointment with your certified HVAC replacement technician. 

AC Broken Compressor FanCondenser coils, compressors, and fans are the components of which an outdoor unit comprises. They work to release heat from the air, to deliver a cool indoor climate.  It’s simple- when the outdoor fan isn’t working properly, the heat transfer process is impacted. A broken fan causes overheating system’s compressor , which triggers the air conditioner’s safety controls and consequently results in the AC’s shut down. 

- Signs of bad AC Compressors

No cooling of indoor temperature

Constant tripping of circuit breaker

Unit makes unwanted noise  

Well, there are other ways a bad compressor will pave itself. But these are a few of the common problems. Replacing or repairing a compressor is not a DIY job.  There are chances it may require a heat pump repair service technician, hence let the specialist diagnose and fix the issue. 

What are the major warning signs your furnace needs servicing or repairs? - Changes in airflow, runtime, new sounds. If you have noticed these changes in your furnace performance it’s time to take a call, as they are asking for a repair or a service. 

The major 5 signs are as follows;

Changes in airflow- They could be due to dirty filters, and clogged blower fans. Decreased airflow can lead to major issues and cause expensive repairs. 

Unusual sound and smoky smell- Some of the issues include smell of burning, or rotten eggs (gas) slow and noisy fan start-up. If they are noticed your certified technician will be able to help and save you from the other uncertainties. 

Kicking on and off without running (Short Cycling) - They are caused due to dirty burners, flame sensors, and malfunctioning ignitors and should be taken care of immediately so that your comfort and wallet both may remain balanced.

Longer run timing- If your existing furnace begins to run longer than it did in the heating seasons past, it may be due to build up grime on the heat exchanger, cracked or malfunctioning heat exchanger. The HVAC technician can address this by cleaning your heat exchanger.                      You can never totally avoid furnace repairs, but you have the power to prevent it by calling a certified HVAC installation/replacement technician. Lastly you can prevent heat exchanger with two steps: A) Schedule regular preventive maintenance. And an annual AC tune-up will ensure that your furnace is working efficiently to heat your occupied space. 

B) Change your HVAC system filter, depending upon the type of filter you have.  

Water and Leaks -A damaged heat exchanger, and a compromised seal on your evaporator coil are the reasons. Contact your technician immediately to rescue from the costly repairs. 

Unfortunately, with the air conditioning system there is no warning, it can happen within minutes, after a few months or several years. Thus,to keep your AC working efficiently for many years, do not miss on your preventive maintenance schedule calendar and hope the above mentioned information will assist you to assess your residential or commercial AC system more efficiently. 

A mini split system can make a massive difference in the comfort level of a room or space. The best part is that you can install mini splits nearly anywhere, providing greater efficiencies than traditional HVAC systems. Keeping your mini split going 24/7 has its advantages. Read on to learn a few good reasons why you should run your mini split all the time.

Efficiency

Mini splits keep temperatures steady, but they need to run continuously to do so. If a unit is powered off or unplugged, it won’t be able to make subtle adjustments to ensure the temperature and humidity remain steady. If you’re considering purchasing a mini split, they don’t function like traditional HVAC units, which switch on and off periodically throughout the day. Instead, they’re meant to stay on constantly. Modern mini splits are efficient, meaning they can operate without using excess energy.

Functionality

Another reason to run your mini split all the time is to take advantage of its built-in and extendable functionality. Many units allow you to program them to heat or cool regularly, keeping the climate at the desired temperature even while you’re out of the house. You can add various mini split AC accessories to your existing equipment to expand its capabilities. Smart thermostats, remote controls, and monitoring solutions allow you to monitor your mini split’s operations at all times.

Comfort

Your home should be where you feel the most comfortable. If your HVAC system is incapable of handling the job, you may need something more flexible. Running a mini split all the time will allow you to keep your house and all its rooms at the optimal temperature for you and your family. Adjusting the heating, cooling, and humidity levels will allow you to dial in the perfect settings for your mini split. Keeping it running will ensure it maintains the desired state without starting all over. This capability is convenient for homeowners who want to maximize their comfort.

Get the Most Out of Your Unit

Ideally, you should have your mini split system serviced and deep-cleaned annually. While most companies will clean your system during routine maintenance, it doesn’t take the place of deep cleaning that will get rid of mold and microbial contamination. Mini splits are more popular than ever today because they make your home feel great and they don’t use a lot of energy. That makes them a considerable improvement over central air, which often leaves some rooms warmer than others.

The Importance of Cleaning Your Mini-Split

Cleaning your mini-split on a regular basis is important for several reasons. Cleaning a mini-split is essential for keeping it in good condition so that it operates at optimal quality. When a mini-split system isn’t cleaned for a significant amount of time, the potential for premature wear of internal components, mold growth, and the emergence of strange odors greatly increases. Furthermore, the presence of excess dirt, dust, or mold in your mini-split system can decrease the air quality in your home by circulating such pollutants into your living space.

The system will also likely become less efficient if you neglect cleaning your mini-split filters for a significant period of time. As dirt, dust, and other contaminants accumulate, the system may have to work harder in order to operate properly. As a result, you’ll likely start to experience higher energy bills each month.

Cleaning the Indoor Unit of Your Mini-Split

To clean your mini-split’s indoor unit, start by simply wiping down the unit’s exterior surface with a damp cloth and then drying it with a dry cloth. Next, locate and remove the mini-split filter and clean it with a mild detergent and water. To do so, you’ll have to remove the system’s front panel. Once you’ve completed the mini-split filter cleaning, let it air-dry completely, place it back into the system where you found it.

After cleaning mini-split filters, it’s time to move on to the evaporator coil. To access the coil, remove the unit’s cabinet. Then, use a clean, dry cloth or a cloth with some coil cleaner on it to remove any dirt, mold, or other particles that have accumulated on the coils. When you’re done cleaning the coils, put the cabinet and front panel back on the unit.

Cleaning the Outdoor Unit of Your Mini-Split

To clean the outdoor unit of your mini-split, start by removing any debris such as twigs, leaves, or grass that’s in, on, or around the unit. Then, use a garden hose or coil cleaning tool to spray down the exterior of the outdoor unit. Upon doing so, use a cloth to remove any dirt or grime that has accumulated on the unit’s housing. When you’re done cleaning a mini-split, make sure to dry it with a cloth.

The ductless mini split heat pump is an increasingly popular choice for both homes and businesses. For new residential and commercial building construction, a ductless system allows for more freedom in building and designing. A ductless mini split uses an outdoor unit (or more than one outdoor unit depending on how large the space they need to condition is) that connects to up to 8 indoor air handlers per outdoor unit. Each of the indoor air handlers contains a refrigerant coil and blower fan to send cooled or heated air directly into the living space.

If you’re considering going with a ductless system for your home, you may feel a bit hesitant at first. After all, those air handler units look a lot like window air conditioners, just not set into a window. Window units aren’t much good for efficiency or comfort, so you might wonder if the ductless system can really keep up with a hot summer.

If you’re considering going with a ductless system for your home, you may feel a bit hesitant at first. After all, those air handler units look a lot like window air conditioners, just not set into a window. Window units aren’t much good for efficiency or comfort, so you might wonder if the ductless system can really keep up with a hot summer.

A ductless AC can handle the heat?

A ductless mini split heat pump isn’t a window unit — it’s a single heat pump system. Each of those units on the wall connects through a hole in the back to the exterior unit. You have the power of a full sized compressor outside working to provide you with the cooling power you need without energy waste.

But, the system does have to be professionally sized and installed. A ductless mini split can provide between 9,000 and 60,000 BTUs of cooling. If the system is too small, it won’t keep up with the heat. If it’s too powerful, it will end up wasting energy. The installers will also determine how many air handlers are necessary to provide even cooling around the house and where they should be placed.

Something to keep in mind: although there are some “cooling only” ductless systems, most of them are heat pumps. This means they can provide both heating and cooling as needed. Just like standard heat pumps, a ductless mini split doesn’t lose any cooling power because it can also operate as a heater. A heat pump works the same whether it’s cooling or heating — the only difference is the direction the refrigerant flows through the system. A well-installed ductless mini split heat pump is ideal for our Oregon climate, since it’s a powerful AC and an efficient heater.

Make Sure Going Ductless Matches Your Needs

There are many benefits of having a ductless mini split system in your home. But they aren’t right for all homes and situations. We recommend ductless for homes that have difficulty remaining comfortable with conventional central cooling. If parts of the home simply won’t cool down the way you want them too, a ductless installation may be the answer.

The temperature is rising, and with it the desire for air conditioning in your older home. Unfortunately, you don’t have any ducts. But the good news is you do have options. Possibilities beyond those noisy, unsightly window units you’ve been relying on for so long — and without the need to reconfigure your home and chase around drywall dust for months after accommodating ductwork. What is this magical whole-house central air conditioning option? It’s ductless air conditioning.

What’s Ductless Air Conditioning?

Relatively new to the market, a ductless air conditioner, also called a mini-split system, is comprised of two parts: an interior, wall-mounted unit paired with a larger compressor unit which sits outside your home. What makes this so different from your typical, split HVAC system? No venting or ducts — hence the name. Simple and easy, ductless air conditioner installation require only a few small 3 inch holes to accommodate refrigerant lines for the delivery of cool, fresh air to your home.

How does it work?

Ductless systems work similarly to split HVAC systems, sans the ducts. The outdoor compressor unit cools air with the help of refrigerant, returning it into your home via a single or multiple interior units, which can be mounted on your wall or flush-mounted on your ceiling like recessed lights. Air is distributed via the interior unit’s fan. Each interior unit features its own easily adjustable thermostat, making it a great solution for homes with areas that remain unoccupied during the day.

Why Are Ductless Air Conditioning Systems A Superior Choice For Your Older Home?

Ductless systems offer a host of benefits over both window units and traditional ducted systems:

Affordability. Installing traditional central HVAC ducting can be a massive, cost prohibitive undertaking in older homes.

Space savings. With ductless systems, you’ll never lose interior home or storage space to an air handler or ductwork.

Comfort. Ductless systems offer better temperature control than both window units and central air, courtesy of hand-held remote controls that allow you to dial-in different temperatures and times for each unit and room.

Security. No more open window security issues as with window units — or the need for off-season moving and storage.

Flexibility. Ductless systems offer room to grow: From single units to the addition of as many as four interior units. This allows for installation options ranging from a single areas (garages, all-season rooms) to multi-level homes.

A ductless, mini-split system operates differently from a centralized heating ventilation air conditioning (HVAC) system. Most centralized systems rely on the presence of air ducts in place, connected to a furnace, usually gas burning. The heated air then moves through the ducts to every room in a home. For cooling, an additional air conditioner is added, with a condenser unit outside the home that uses the same ductwork to distribute cool air.

A mini-split, ductless system, does away with vents. The mini-split units are installed in specific rooms or regions of a space. Since mini-splits don’t operate with a duct network, many people wonder if a mini-split needs to run longer or even all the time, compared to a centralized HVAC system.

More Time, Better Efficiency

Central systems are designed to heat air to much higher temperatures, between 130 and 140 °F. It “blasts” heat into every room where there’s a duct. Mini-splits heat air between 85 and 95 °F and then disperse that into any area that requires it, based on the assessment of an HVAC expert on where to place the units for maximum efficiency and your settings.

A mini-split system may run longer than what people are used to with a central system. However, mini-splits are also 30% more efficient in their operation than central systems, so despite running longer, they use less energy. In central systems, some heat is invariably lost “in the ducts” as air travels from the furnace, through ducts, to the different vents. Mini-splits eliminate this deficiency.

Why Do Mini Splits Run All the Time?

A mini split that runs all the time is not broken but it’s supposed to do so because it is more energy-efficient. Traditionally, air conditioners shut off when they reach the set temperature. Then, they start to run again when the temperature drop. On the other hand, most mini splits never shut off because they are equipped with inverter technology. Mini splits with inverter technology never stop operate until you turn them off. They always run at a percentage of their capacity based on how much cooling is needed for your house or room. These mini splits are often called inverter mini splits.

More Comfortable

Because mini splits that run constantly are able to regulate their capacity, they are capable of maintaining a steady room temperature which creates a more comfortable environment for your house or room.

Conventional start/stop air conditioners often cool a room too much before they stop running. Afterward, the room may get too warm before they start running again. Such a cooling cycle often makes us feel an obvious temperature fluctuation which is not very comfortable especially when we sleep. We may be woke by the significant temperature rise.

On the other hand, mini splits that run constantly start cooling a room with their full capacity. When the room reaches the set temperature, they reduce their cooling to a level just enough to maintain the desired room temperature. Thus, we won’t experience any temperature fluctuation and feel more comfortable.

Do Constantly-Running Mini Splits Consume More Electricity?