Alternatives to Traditional HVAC Systems

Split system air conditioning systems using a compressor / condenser unit and an indoor unit are one of the most cost effective means to cool any commercial or residential space.  Traditionally with these systems, cool air is distributed into the areas being cooled thru strategically located ductwork.  Now it is possible to air condition spaces easier and cheaper by using a ductless mini-split system, which completely eliminates the need for any ductwork.  This results in lower costs! 

This system has a small inside unit, which is located on an interior face of a perimeter wall, with the compressor / condensing unit being located in the same area on the exterior of the home.  The outdoor unit is either mounted on the floor or mounted on the wall, with all connections of refrigerant lines, condensation drains and power feeds between the indoor and outdoor units being made thru a single hole approximately 3” in diameter.  These systems come in a variety of sizes with the systems being made by a variety of international companies, including LG and Mitsubishi.  These types of systems are very popular in Asia, where it is hot year around. 

There are a number of advantages to using these units including the ability to eliminate bulkheads required to conceal ductwork.  In addition, they are economical to operate, easy to install and give the property owner the ability to regulate the temperature of each room without the need to create expensive air conditioning zones with zone dampers.  Maintenance is straightforward with a periodic cleaning of the filters being required.

Posted on behalf of Find Local HVAC

Ductless Mini Split HVAC Systems

Ductless mini split heating and cooling systems are a great new alternative to traditional ducted HVAC systems.  A mini split system is similar to a modern heat pump, but as the name implies it does not use any ducts to distribute the heated or cooled air.

A ductless mini split system uses an outdoors compressor/condenser like a heat pump, but indoors it uses a separate individual air handler for each room instead of a central air handler with ducts to blow the air to each room like a heat pump or furnace.  Mini-split systems can have anywhere from one to four indoor air handlers for each outdoor unit.

Mini split systems are an excellent alternative to replace older ductless heating systems such as water or oil filled radiators, space heaters, or radiant panels.  They are easy to install and only require a three inch hole in the wall to connect indoor air handler to the outdoor unit.

They are also an excellent choice for installation in room additions where extending the ducting would be impractical or where the existing HVAC system would not be large enough to heat and cool the additional space.

Because they do not rely on ducts for air distribution, mini split systems are very efficient.  Traditional central heat and air conditioning systems can lose as much as 30% of their heating and cooling energy through the duct system.  Also, each indoor air handler in a mini split system has a separate thermostat.  Each room can be heated or cooled depending on how it is used resulting in further energy savings.