mini split systems

Ductless Split Systems

If you were to go with ductless split systems, you should be installing a complete system for each room, just as you would with window air conditioners. So, If you have a living room, dining room and den on the first floor and 3 bedrooms on the second floor, you are looking at 6 units.

Also consider that the length and width of the air handler portion of the ductless split systems are typically larger than the corresponding measurements of a window air conditioner, so the visual results will be very different than your original central system.

If you do opt for the six ductless split systems, be aware that you will also need 6 outdoor units. This will affect the appearance of the outside of the house. There are, however, condensing (outdoor) units that contain multiple compressors and are intended for use with mulitple air handlers.

Since you are in the process of renovating, it is safe to assume that the walls and ceilings are in a demolished state. Given that, I would opt for replacing the ductwork and sticking to a central a/c system. From a first cost standpoint, this may actually be a less costly option.

If you opt for the central system, be sure to install a multistage electronic air cleaner and avoid using the 79-cent HD specials. Your ducts will thank you.

If the interior of the ductwork is dirty, dirt was allowed to enter the ductwork. Fair enough? If we use high quality filters and are able to prevent the dirt from entering the air distribution system, the ducts will remain cleaner.

No, you are not paranoid. But it's a good thing that you actually got a good look inside the duct system. Now, you know what will happen (and did) if your system is not properly maintained.

Yes Mike

You are correct and in the third paragraph of my previous post it mentions that there are condensing units available that have multiple compressors for use with multiple air handlers.

And yes, Mike, you are also correct when you mention that these systems can be a little rough to service.

As a point of order to our home remodeler... If you go the ductless split route, be sure that the contractor insulates both refrigerant lines that connect the indoor and the outdoor units. The metering devices on these systems are located outdoors and both lines contain low pressure, low temperature refrigerant. I have seen, on more than one occasion, water damage to the structure that resulted from an installation that was missing insulation on the line feeding refrigerant to the indoor coil. On conventional split-type air conditioning systems, this line contains high pressure, high temperature subcoolied liquid and dies not sweat and, therefore, does not need to be insulated.

Good luck with your new home and please keep us posted as to your decisions and progress with the house.

The Professor.

Have a Great Time!

I was one of the guest educators last year at the HARDI Annual meeting in Chicago.

Great bunch of guys!