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Also called a mini-split, a ductless HVAC system is a system professionals install more and more throughout Charlotte. You can use this type of system for both cooling and heating, depending on what you need at the moment to make your home more comfortable. These systems tend to be flexible and energy efficient, giving you another option to consider for your home’s temperature control. Learn more about their longevity to help decide if it is the right system for your residence.
The Operation of Ductless HVAC Systems
There are two primary components of a ductless HVAC system: an outdoor condenser unit and an indoor evaporator unit. Electrical wiring, refrigerant lines, and a housing conduit connect these two units.
Professionals will generally mount the indoor unit on the ceiling or high up on a wall. This will provide warm or cool air to the room you place the unit in. The outdoor unit works to exchange heat with the indoor environment.
There are several advantages associated with having this type of HVAC system in your home. It tends to be energy efficient. Since it does not have any ductwork, there is no heat or AC loss in the duct network. The lack of ductwork also makes it easier to install compared to a traditional HVAC system.
This kind of system is flexible, and you can install one in various settings. The lack of ductwork makes it suitable for installation in a garage apartment, a workshop, a new room addition, or the restoration of a historic home.
Since you can have a separate indoor unit in any location, this type of system allows for zoning. Consequently, the greater control helps you reduce energy waste. If one family member prefers a cooler room, but the nursery for the baby should be kept warm, you can accommodate both, and it’s easy to do. What’s more, if a particular room is unoccupied, you can turn off the equipment in that area to save on the expense of cooling or heating.
Typical Ductless HVAC System Life Span
Several factors influence the life span of your ductless HVAC system. When you maintain your system well, you can expect it to last approximately 15 to 20 years.
The system’s overall quality affects its longevity. Choose a system from a reputable manufacturer so that you know the build is sturdy and the components are high in quality. This will contribute to it holding up longer. Consult with a professional in order to choose a system that will withstand wear and tear, especially if you intend to use it all year for both cooling and heating. In addition, it must be the right size for the space.
You’ll also want experienced professionals to install your system. With proper installation, your equipment will last longer and have fewer problems over the years. Improper installation can increase the risk of a variety of issues such as insufficient airflow and inefficient operation.
Always keep up with the routine maintenance. You can talk to an HVAC professional to determine the best maintenance schedule. They will replace the filters, do the necessary cleaning, check the components, and keep an eye on the refrigerant level. All of this will have a positive influence on your system’s life expectancy. If you neglect to have routine maintenance performed, this could cause the system to experience premature wear and tear.
How you use your system also plays a role in how long it lasts. When you use the system seasonally, it tends to last longer than a system that provides both cooling and heating and is in use throughout the year.
Environmental conditions and the climate where you live have an impact on the life span of the system as well. Extreme temperatures and poor air quality can both reduce the system’s useful life. For example, compared to areas further from the ocean, coastal air may cause premature outdoor unit corrosion due to the high content of salt in the environment.
Increasing the System’s Life Span
The right maintenance and usage can help to increase how long your equipment lasts. When you keep an eye on the system and are mindful of its needs, it will be easier to keep it going and notice issues when they arise. This is important because fixing something as soon as it goes bad can also help your system last longer.
When it comes to usage, only select the temperature you need to stay comfortable. Setting the device to very cold or hot temperatures can cause the internal components to wear out faster. When you are not home, adjust the settings a few degrees to reduce the workload on the system. Then, when you do get home, you can set it at the desired temperature. It will not take too long for your room to cool or heat to your liking. A programmable thermostat can help you to achieve this regulated schedule more easily and more accurately. An HVAC professional can advise you on how to optimize your temperature settings.
Insulating your home properly and sealing gaps will not only save you money on your utility bills but also save your HVAC equipment from overworking. It’s worth it to have a professional inspect your insulation.
A surge protector can also help to protect your system. An electrician can install this for you. Once installed, the device will shield the sensitive components inside your system from damage if an electrical surge occurs.
Make sure that the outdoor unit has adequate protection from the elements. You want to clear debris when you see it and keep the landscaping trimmed back.
Routine maintenance is something you’ll want a professional to do. They’ll start by inspecting your system to determine if any component requires fixing or replacing. Once they complete this step, they will look at the filters in the system. A clean filter ensures that there is less strain on the equipment by promoting proper airflow. They will clean the outdoor unit and all of the indoor units. Removing dust and debris will help your system to run optimally.
In addition, they’ll tighten electrical connections, lubricate moving parts, and inspect safety mechanisms. The technician will also check the refrigerant level in your system. This is especially important if you notice a reduction in your system’s cooling or heating performance. Low refrigerant can shorten the system’s life span by putting excess strain on the compressor.
HVAC Experts in Charlotte
Learning more about a ductless HVAC system in Charlotte makes it easier to determine if it is the right choice for your home. Our experts know what it takes to help you with everything from the installation to annual maintenance. Of course, we can also extend the life of your equipment by performing repairs when needed. Once we get your system up and running, our team of professionals is here to assist you with these and any other HVAC needs you may have. We offer a complete range of electrical services as well.
Call us at Acosta Heating, Cooling, & Electrical in Charlotte today to talk more about your ductless HVAC system.
