MITSUBISHI ● NEW INSTALLATIONS ● SERVICE & REPAIRS

Doing the Impossible

There are occasions when it is physically impossible or impractical to install a central air conditioning system or heat pump.  Through-the-wall and window units are noisy, drafty, and allow unneeded air infiltration when not in use that can waste energy and allow insects or other pests to invade the home or office.

 

Ductless mini-split heat pumps provide a unique solution to bringing central air conditioning into homes.  By piping refrigerant to individual coils within air handlers mounted throughout a home (rather than a single refrigerant coil/air handler and central ductwork), mini-split heat pumps do not require ductwork for central air conditioning.  Because the refrigerant lines take up much less room than do typical ducts, much less effort is required in installation in a retrofit.  Large holes in the wall or open windows are eliminated.

 

More Efficient and Quieter

Split systems offer higher efficiency and reduced noise.  By separating the compressor and condenser coil from the fan and evaporator coil, the noisiest component is away from the room.  The indoor unit will usually have remote control capabilities and a timer to cycle the system only when needed.  The indoor unit is called an air handler because it has the evaporator coil, blower, and controls inside.  The outdoor unit is called the condenser. They are connected together with refrigerant piping and control wiring, similar to a central system.

 

No Ductwork Required

Because they do not rely on ductwork (which is often leaky and can account for nearly a third of the energy usage for heating and cooling), mini-split heat pumps can boost energy efficiency.  The ability to control each zone separately can also contribute to energy efficiency.  Distribution energy losses for ductless systems are only about one to five percent.

 

A Typical "Three-Zone" Ductless System Installation

 

The Flexible Solution

Ductless mini-split systems combine the flexibility of room air conditioners with the whole house cooling of central systems.  Although some systems provide heating and cooling, ductless mini-split heat pumps are usually installed primarily for cooling.

 

Home Owner Servicing Cautions

Some manufacturers use low voltage to control the system, others use line voltage.  Caution must be taken when opening up the cabinet to shut power off when servicing.  The most important service item is dirt.  Screens or filters can usually be found behind the front grill of the air handler.  Tabs allow them to slide out for cleaning.  Keep vegetation and debris away from the outdoor unit to allow good air flow for maximum cooling efficiency.  An occasional blast from a garden hose with the system shut down will help keep the condenser clean.

 

How can we help?

To learn more about how Service Air can help you live more comfortably in your home year-around, please contact us.