What is mini-split (also known as "split ductless") air conditioning?
Mini-split systems is an effective way to add air conditioning to multiple rooms without opening up interior walls to install ductwork.
Mini-splits consists of an exterior condenser and an indoor evaporator unit (air handler) that houses the cooling coil, a fan, and controls. The condenser and the evaporator blowers are connected by electric wires and
copper tubing, through which the refrigerant circulates. Some models are designed to have two (dual zone) or more evaporators (indoor air handlers) connected to one
outdoor condenser unit. Each evaporator blower is mounted high on the interior wall of the room or area you want to cool and you can control the units with a remote control. Since you
have the option to install multiple units, you can save energy by zone cooling your home instead of a central unit that will cool the entire home.
Mini-split systems do an excellent job of cooling and are much quieter indoors and out than window air conditioners. On the low setting they are barely audible.
Mini-split systems (professional installation is recommended) is more expensive than window or portable air conditioners but is less expensive than central air if you are cooling only a few rooms. However, if you are looking to cool the majority of your home, a central-air-conditioning system is probably a more cost-effective choice.
Why should I purchase a new heating or air conditioning system?
Efficiency and cost savings
Older systems (as recent as 10 years ago) may not be as efficient as newer model systems. New systems today are more efficient, as much as 60%
and can offer long-term benefits.
New systems today may help to eliminate ongoing maintenance and costly monthly bills.
Which system works best for me?
A consultation with RLC HVAC Controls LLC can help determine which system would be efficient and effective for your needs.
Various factors must be considered when determining the most efficient and effective system for your needs. Factors such as the property
size of your home/business, the number of rooms, climate, the number of windows in your space are just a few factors considered in the evaluation of
which system will best suit your needs.
When replacing an existing system with a new system, we can help with ensuring you receive an equal or higher efficiency system that may help
reduce natural gas and electricity costs by as much as 60%.
How is a new system installed?
If the property does not have existing central air and heat, it will require the installation of ductwork (unless installing a Mini-split
system), insulation, refrigerant piping, electrical service, wiring, thermostat, condensate piping, and other equipment.
For a central system, properly installed ductwork allows for the outflow and delivery of air to each zone of your home/business with the new system. Ductwork
also comes in various sizes depending on the amount of air needed to go to each zone. A return duct is also installed to remove air to be
heated or cooled with a filter. To ensure proper distribution of airflow, ductwork is properly sized.
How long before I will need to replace it?
If your system is properly maintained, an air conditioner can last 12 to 15 years and a gas furnace can last 20 to 25 years.
How to control the humidity levels?
Using a variable-speed furnace or air handler as part of your HVAC system can help reduce humidity levels. Variable speed units can run longer
and at
lower speeds to allow air to circulate against the cooling coil and remove more moisture.
Variable-speed motors use less electricity and will aid in reducing your energy costs.
Can I do any self-service work before calling to service my system?
HVAC systems should be serviced by a certified professional if it is malfunctioning. However, you can try a few basic steps to troubleshoot on your own. If you are not comfortable performing
these steps, it is best to consult us.
Check your circuit breakers to see if they are in the ON position.
Check and clean your filters.
Check the supply and return vents to make sure they are not blocked.
Check your thermostat.
Why is my system not turning on or shutting off?
Check your thermostat is operating properly. If it's a programmable (electric) thermostat, check the batteries. If you have an older manual
style thermostat, this would be a great opportunity to replace it with a programmable unit which not only saves you energy, it will save you money
in the long run.
Why is my air handler frozen and/or leaking water?
Most likely there is a leak in the system causing the gas to run low. You should have a professional come diagnose the system to track down
the leak and properly repair it before recharging the gas. A common mistake is to simply recharge the gas however that will only last for a little
while till the gas depleted due to the unrepaired leak. 1
What is R-22?
R-22 is the common name for hydro-chlorofluorocarbon (HCFC). R-22 has been used as a refrigerant by HVAC manufacturers for over 40 years, but
studies in the past decade have shown that HCFCs contain chlorine, an ozone-depleting agent. For this reason, the United States Clean Air Act has
set a target date for January 1, 2010, on which HVAC manufacturers must cease the production of products that use R-22.
What is R-410A?
R-410A is the common name for an emerging hydro-fluorocarbon (HFC) that is being used as a refrigerant in the HVAC industry. R-410A is more
environmentally friendly than R-22 and is being seen as the most likely replacement for R-22 by HVAC manufacturers. At the beginning of 2010, the
use of alternate refrigerant will be required in HVAC manufacturing.
What is ENERGY STAR?
ENERGY STAR is a label that identifies energy efficient products, such as heating and cooling equipment, which meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).
Products that have earned the ENERGY STAR help you save energy and money without sacrificing performance. By using less energy, these products also help reduce greenhouse gas emissions— caused by the burning of fossil fuels at power plants—that contribute to global warming.
More than 50 types of products, including heating and cooling equipment, lighting, office equipment, appliances, and home electronics can qualify for the ENERGY STAR.
The ENERGY STAR program helps businesses and individuals fight global warming through energy-efficient products and practices. Learn more at www.energystar.gov.
