Adding onto your home is an easy way to expand its square footage. Whether it’s a sunroom, mother-in-law suite, or home office, you’ll love having the flexibility to use your home in new ways. During the planning process, you must consider what type of HVAC to use. A ductless mini-split allows you to keep the addition comfortable without having to run new ductwork.
What Is a Ductless Mini-Split?
A ductless mini-split provides an all-in-one heating and cooling system for year-round comfort. It consists of an outdoor compressor that connects to an indoor wall-mounted air handler. There’s no need to install bulky ductwork because the cool or warm air blows straight into the room through the indoor unit. This makes the installation process less complex compared to traditional HVAC setups.
Position the Indoor Air Handler to Eliminate Uneven Temperatures
The indoor air handler needs to be on a wall that doesn’t have any weird angles or alcoves. If it does, the conditioned air will bounce off the narrow recesses, resulting in uneven temperatures throughout the room. Ideally, the air handler needs at least two to three feet of clearance on the bottom and sides. You should leave about six inches between the top of the unit and the ceiling. You must also be mindful where you set up furniture. Don’t place a bed or bookshelf right in front of the unit because it’ll block the cool air.
Clean the Air Filters Regularly for Better Airflow
Compared to traditional HVAC systems, a ductless mini-split requires more upkeep for air filter cleaning. It helps to set a reminder to clean the filters at least once every two to four weeks. Some models even come with filter cleaning indicator lights. If you don’t keep the filters clean, this can reduce airflow and lead to poor indoor air quality. Clean filters help ensure the system operates at peak efficiency and delivers maximum comfort.
Use the Louvers Correctly for Heating and Cooling
The louvers on a ductless mini-split direct the flow of air up or down. Place them in a downward direction for heating since heat naturally rises. Position them to blow the air upward for cooling; this allows the cold air to gradually cascade down into the room as it disperses across the space.
Schedule Annual Service to Stay on Top of Required Maintenance
The smartest way to keep your mini-split running smoothly is to schedule annual maintenance. This allows an expert to find and replace worn-out parts before they impact the efficiency of the system and the comfort it provides.
Are you ready to give your home addition the ultimate form of comfort? Chatting with a skilled HVAC technician will help you learn about your heating and cooling options and whether a ductless mini-split is the right solution. If you live in Albuquerque, NM or a surrounding area and need ductless mini split services, make your first call to Ace Cooling, Heating, Plumbing, & Electrical.