The Plumbing & Air Service Co. - All About Ductless Mini-Split AC Systems

HVAC Techs in Greensboro, North Carolina, Share Info About Ductless Mini-Split AC Systems

Your Guide to Ductless Mini Split AC Systems

You may not realize that there’s an alternative to traditional AC systems found in many homes and buildings. Where installing ductwork is prohibitive or expensive, ductless mini-split air conditioning systems are the go-to solution. Many people don’t know these exist until they’re looking for a solution to an AC problem. The fact is that mini-split systems are fairly common and are great for certain situations.

Read on to discover what mini-split systems are, when they’re the best option, and what kind of maintenance they require.

What Is a Ductless Mini-Split System?

Mini-split air conditioner systems consist of up to four units installed directly into rooms that require cooling. They’re usually installed in an exterior wall because they need to be connected to a central outdoor unit. But, it’s not as intensive as it sounds. Most systems only require a 3-inch hole in the wall for the power cable, tubing, and a condensate drain. They are much the same as a conventional AC system in this way. But, while a conventional system has a single outdoor and a single indoor unit, mini-split systems can have up to four indoor units that run off of the outdoor unit which houses a compressor and condenser.

Since mini-split systems don’t use ducts and consist of individual units, there’s no central thermostat. Instead, each unit comes with a remote to control the temperature on that particular unit. If a mini-split unit does have problems, it doesn’t affect the other units in the system. Unless, of course, there’s a problem with the outdoor unit.

HVAC technicians look at a few things when they do regular maintenance checks on mini-split units. They inspect the evaporator coils and the drain pan, clean the indoor air quality filter components, and will ensure the blower assembly and fan wheel are correctly aligned and balanced.

When to Install a Ductless Air Conditioner System

Benefits of a Ductless Mini Split System

People usually opt for a mini-split system when installing ducts isn’t possible or cost-effective. Old houses without existing ducts can benefit from a mini-split air conditioner system. The same goes for add-ons or stand-alone buildings that have been converted to living quarters or studios. Multi-family homes are also good candidates for ductless air conditioners, because of the ability to have different temperatures in each room.

Ductless AC systems can also save energy. Conventional systems lose up to 30% of their effectiveness through ducts, particularly when the ductwork is in an uninsulated attic. However, mini-split systems have a fairly steep upfront cost, if you have existing ducts to use or it would be easy to install them.

Ductless AC Maintenance

Like other AC systems, mini-split units need regular maintenance. Typically this involves cleaning out each unit’s filter on a regular basis. It’s also a good idea to check and clean the outdoor unit. Keeping the outdoor unit clean and clear of plants or other obstructions will help it run smoothly for a long time. Of course, the best way to keep any AC system healthy is to call you local HVAC experts and have them do regular maintenance checks.

About Plumbing & Air Service Company

Plumbing and Air Service Co. has been serving Greensboro, North Carolina, since 1997. They offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee, upfront pricing, and excellent technicians. The locally owned and operated company treats your home like their own, and they aren’t happy until you are.