Pensacola’s Best Ductless Air Conditioner Service
If you are considering a new air conditioning system, we are going to help you weigh the costs of repairing the old system versus a replacement. We will take into account your current electric bill, the cost of repairs, and the costs of a newer, more energy-efficient system.
If you have an air conditioning unit that meets any of the following criteria, you can probably replace it with a ductless air conditioner. You will end up saving quite a bit of money each summer on your electric bill.
- 15 or more years old
- Requires Freon
- Frequently needs repairs
- Provides inadequate cooling
We offer financing on approved credit through a Home Design credit card that is issued through Synchrony Bank. This helps most homeowners recoup the energy savings more quickly with the cost of the new unit spread out over time. Our team also provides repairs and maintenance for ductless air conditioners, so we can take care of your unit throughout its lifetime.
What is a Ductless Air Conditioner, and How Does it Work?
A ductless air conditioner, also known as a mini-split system, consists of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units. Unlike traditional central air conditioning systems, ductless units do not require ductwork. They work by:
- Outdoor Unit: The outdoor unit contains the compressor and condenser. It connects to the indoor units via refrigerant lines and electrical wiring.
- Indoor Units: The indoor units are mounted on walls or ceilings and contain the evaporator and fan. They distribute cooled air directly into the room.
- Operation: The system uses a refrigerant to absorb heat from the indoor air, which is then released outside. The indoor unit blows cooled air directly into the room, providing efficient and targeted cooling.
What Are the Advantages of Ductless Air Conditioners Compared to Traditional Systems?
Ductless air conditioners offer several advantages over traditional systems:
- Energy Efficiency: Ductless systems are generally more energy-efficient because they avoid the energy losses associated with ductwork.
- Zoned Cooling: They allow for individualized temperature control in different rooms or zones, reducing energy waste and improving comfort.
- Ease of Installation: Installation is typically less invasive and quicker since there’s no need for extensive ductwork.
- Flexibility: Ductless systems can be installed in various configurations, making them suitable for homes without existing ductwork, room additions, or specific areas like basements and garages.
- Improved Indoor Air Quality: Without ductwork, there’s less opportunity for dust, allergens, and other pollutants to accumulate and circulate throughout the home.
How Do I Determine the Right Size of a Ductless Air Conditioner for My Space?
Choosing the right size ductless air conditioner is crucial for efficiency and comfort. Here’s how to determine the appropriate size:
- Calculate the Room Size: Measure the square footage of the room or area you want to cool.
- BTU Requirements: Use the square footage to estimate the necessary cooling capacity in British Thermal Units (BTUs). As a general rule, you need about 20 BTUs per square foot. However, factors such as ceiling height, insulation, and sun exposure can affect the required capacity.
- Consult a Professional: It’s best to consult with a professional HVAC technician who can perform a detailed load calculation. They’ll consider factors like room layout, number of occupants, and electrical requirements to recommend the right size and number of units.
What Kind of Maintenance do Ductless Air Conditioners Require?
Ductless air conditioners require regular maintenance to ensure efficient operation and longevity. Key maintenance tasks include:
- Filter Cleaning or Replacement: Clean or replace the filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage and air quality. Dirty filters can reduce efficiency and indoor air quality.
- Coil Cleaning: Clean the indoor unit’s evaporator coils and the outdoor unit’s condenser coils annually to prevent dirt buildup and maintain efficiency.
- Check Refrigerant Levels: Low refrigerant can reduce cooling efficiency and damage the system. Have a professional check and recharge the refrigerant if necessary.
- Inspect the Outdoor Unit: Ensure the outdoor unit is free from debris, leaves, and other obstructions that can block airflow.
- Professional Maintenance: Schedule annual professional AC maintenance to check electrical components, test the system’s performance, and ensure everything is in good working order.
Can a Ductless Air Conditioner Also Provide Heating?
Yes, many ductless air conditioners are also capable of providing heating. These systems are known as ductless heat pumps or mini-split heat pumps. They work similarly to ductless air conditioners but can reverse the refrigeration cycle to provide heating during colder months. Here’s how they work:
- Heating Mode: In heating mode, the system extracts heat from the outside air and transfers it indoors. Even in cooler weather, heat pumps can efficiently heat a space by absorbing heat from the air.
- Efficiency: Ductless heat pumps are highly efficient and can provide cost-effective heating, especially in mild climates. They offer the advantage of both cooling and heating in one system, making them a versatile solution for year-round comfort.
These systems are ideal for homes in regions with moderate winters or as supplemental heating in specific areas of a home.
Ductless Mini-Splits
Are you in the market for a ductless mini-split system? At Bluewater Heating & Air, we can certainly be of assistance. Ductless mini splits are a kind of heating and cooling system that does not require ducts to circulate the air in and around your home. A mini split is made up of an outdoor systems and one or multiple indoor systems that are attached to the wall or ceiling.
The outdoor mini split contains a compressor and condenser. The indoor mini split system houses an evaporator and a fan. Refrigerant is pumped through the mini split between the indoor and outdoor systems, where it pushes cool or warm air directly to the indoor area.
Ductless mini splits are a good option for homes that do not have existing ductwork, or where installing ducts is difficult. Mini split systems are more energy-efficient than traditional HVAC systems because they use up less energy to run than a system that requires ducts.
