When you invest in a new AC unit, you want to know that you are buying a system that will last for many years, especially with how daunting the idea of facing the hot summer months without a good air conditioning system can be. Therefore, you need to know that the ductless mini-split system you purchase is reliable. Unlike a traditional air conditioning system, ductless mini-splits do not use ductwork to deliver cool air throughout your house. That means you won’t have to deal with leaky ductwork problems, which is why many homeowners claim they are more efficient and even better for your comfort and wallet in the long term.
Most traditional air conditioning units last for around ten years. While a decade may sound like a long time, ductless systems last for a longer duration. These air conditioners have an average life of 20 years, but this lifespan isn’t guaranteed. Without proper maintenance and care, your HVAC cannot operate for that long. According to research, an improperly maintained ductless system can use 25% more energy to operate every day. One of the main benefits of a ductless unit is that it can save you a maximum of 30% in energy costs compared to central air conditioning units.
If you would like your ductless system to have a long lifespan and enjoy the benefits of your investment, ensure your unit is properly maintained by a professional. Below are some factors that affect the longevity of ductless units and tips to prolong their service life.
1. Frequency of Use
Many homeowners who reside in regions with extreme temperatures rely on their HVAC units throughout the year. It’s therefore natural for the components of their cooling and heating units to wear out with time because of their frequent use. The good news is that people living in areas with cold winters and hot summers can find ways to reduce their systems’ load. Using milder thermostat settings, for instance, can help you maintain indoor temperatures within the normal range, keeping your home comfortable regardless of the season.
When you are not at home, you can turn the temperature up when your mini-split is in the cooling mode and turn the temperature down when heating. This way, you’ll minimize wear and tear on the system and significantly cut down on energy costs.
2. The Level of Maintenance and Care the Unit Gets
Every HVAC unit needs regular maintenance to perform optimally and efficiently. Although you don’t need to check on it daily, performing simple tasks like regularly changing filters can make a big difference. After all, changing or cleaning your unit’s filters also enhances airflow in your living space.
The other thing you need to do is schedule regular maintenance of the ductless system at least twice annually. During routine maintenance, the HVAC technicians will inspect the components of the unit, clean and test them to ensure the entire system is working as it should. These professionals will also make the necessary adjustments to keep your unit running at peak performance and energy efficiency.
3. Environmental Conditions
The conditions of the environment you live in also play a significant role in the longevity of your ductless mini-split. For instance, if you live near a construction site or in a region that experiences dust storms, your filters will become dirty and clogged quickly due to dust buildup. That means you’ll need to clean or change them regularly to extend the service life of your unit. Homeowners living in coastal areas will also have to deal with salty air, which causes the components of ductless units to corrode fast. That means your ductless system will last for a shorter time than those living far from coastal regions.
4. Quality of Your Ductless Mini-Split
Like any other equipment or appliance, the quality of the ductless unit you purchase will determine its service life. Although it’s tempting to go for a low-priced unit, you need to consider the unit’s longevity. Most of the cheap models you find on the market today are made from cheap materials, and such units do not last long. Therefore, you need to consider the quality of an air conditioning system before making your purchase.
Since a ductless system is a huge investment, you can ask your local HVAC technician to help you get a good brand that will serve you for a long time before needing a replacement. Consulting with a professional will help you get information about the recommended brands, unit’s warranty, quality, and other related factors. The technician can also help you get a good option without putting a dent in your wallet if you are on a budget.
5. Installation of the Ductless Unit
The other thing that affects the lifespan of a ductless air conditioner is the unit’s installation. Having an HVAC professional install your unit will ensure good performance and longevity of the equipment. These experts have the knowledge, skills, and tools to assemble your system on-site. They also know how to identify suitable locations for the outdoor and indoor units and ensure proper fitting of the connecting cables and pipes. To prolong the service life of your ductless mini-split, consider hiring a skilled and reputable contractor to handle the installation.
6. Sizing of the Ductless Mini-Split
When purchasing a ductless system, you need to get the correct size to match your home’s square footage. Therefore, the system should not be bigger or smaller than you require to heat or cool your living space. Installing an oversized system leads to short cycling, making the unit’s components wear out fast. On the other hand, getting an undersized ductless mini-split will force your unit to work longer and harder to attain the desired indoor temperatures. As a result, the components of the system will be susceptible to wear and tear, affecting the longevity of the ductless mini-split.
The power utilized in ductless units is measured in BTUs, or British Thermal Units. The bigger your living space is, the higher the BTU number you’ll need. If you don’t know how to calculate the size of the unit you need, consult an HVAC technician. These professionals will help you calculate the amount of power you need for your space and find a system that matches your load. Furthermore, they can also give you suitable recommendations to suit your budget and needs.
Contact the Experts Today
Ductless mini-splits have a longer lifespan than traditional central air conditioning units. Improved HVAC technology and the absence of ductwork enable these systems to operate more efficiently, significantly contributing to their extended service life. Taking good care of your unit can extend its lifespan. Since ductless mini-splits are more costly to buy and install upfront, you’ll want to get the most out of your investment for as long as possible.
If you are considering purchasing a ductless system for your living space, our HVAC team at Tarpy Plumbing, Heating & Air can help you decide and pick the most appropriate unit to match your needs. We offer high-quality ductless units and services that give you a good air conditioning setting while keeping your energy and operation costs low. Our company also offers AC, furnace, plumbing, air quality, and blow-in insulation services to the residents of San Diego, CA, and the surrounding regions. Contact us to learn more about ductless systems or book your service appointment.
SPECIALISTS
