Tag: ductless

5 Fast, Easy Tips For Ductless AC Maintenance

Jun 20, 2022

5 Fast, Easy Tips For Ductless AC Maintenance

  • Cooling
ductless AC maintenance

A ductless AC is extremely handy for homeowners looking for a more focused cooling effort in their home. Whether it’s a home office, a living room, bedroom, ductless ACs are fantastic for cooling the most-used areas of your abode with minimal costs to your overall energy bill. With some proper maintenance and TLC, your ductless AC can and will serve you well for years on end. But you need to know how to take care of it.

Keep the Exterior Unit Clean

As you’re probably aware, your ductless unit is comprised of the interior unit responsible for blowing the cool air into your home and the exterior unit where the air comes from. As it’s outside, the latter component is exposed to the elements on a regular basis. Rain, snow, sleet, animals, you name it your outdoor unit has to deal with it. An occasional sweeping of it, clearing it of debris, dust, and accumulated dirt. While you may not think so, keeping the exterior unit clean saves you and HVAC techs a huge amount of headache later on when you need more in-depth service.

Check the Filters

Filters prevent harmful, nasty particles from flowing through your HVAC systems. Things like dust, pet dander and even bacteria and viruses get caught in the filter and stop circulating in your home. That’s only if you have a functioning filter, however. Old filters get clogged up with gunk and refuse over time and stop working, allowing all manner of particles to float through your home.  Thankfully, replacing your filters is a pretty easy process you can do with even a small amount of HVAC know-how. Depending on your unit, you may even be able to clean the filter you have with a dry cloth. The intrepid homeowner is going to want to check their air filters every month and a half or so.

Clear the Area Around the Interior Unit

While not nearly as bulky as other varieties of air conditioner, ductless ACs need some room to breathe.  The interior unit needs a good amount of wall space to operate to the best of its ability. About four feet in every direction (aside from the wall itself) should be sufficient space to ensure optimal cooling. Make sure things like book cases, wall-mounted televisions, sofas, and framed photos are well out of the way from your AC to ensure nothing goes awry.

A Clean Condenser is a Functional Condenser

You may think internal cleaning is beyond what you’re capable of as a homeowner. So long as you know what you’re doing and are safe, personal cleaning of your ductless unit can be an extremely beneficial way to increase its lifespan and make it run smoother longer. Before you do anything, make sure the unit is completely powered down to avoid damaging components, or worse, injuring yourself. Once the condenser is powered down, you can use your garden hose (at low pressure) to clean off any accumulated dirt and debris from the unit. If left unchecked, this can clog up your fans and impede your AC’s ability to function properly. Once the water is dry, make sure the fins did not bend (they can be realigned with a simple alignment comb) and dust off any remaining matter by hand.

Call a Professional For a Regular Tune-up

We here at North Shore are all for the DIY spirit. But some things do require a professional touch. Calling out an HVAC tech every once in a while for a regularly scheduled inspection will help identify and isolate issues as they appear and before they snowball out of control. A visit from your friendly neighborhood HVAC professional every so often can save you a lot of money and headache down the line.

Contact North Shore Home Energy Today for the Best in HVAC Work!

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ductless AC maintenance  ductless ac maintenance 

By nshec

8 Signs That Your Ductless Heating System is in Need of Repairs

Oct 27, 2021

8 Signs That Your Ductless Heating System is in Need of Repairs

  • Heating
ductless heating

The winter season is almost here, which means we’re all thinking about the same thing… our ductless heating systems. Well, maybe you’re thinking about holiday treats, family time, and gift-giving, but don’t forget that this is the best time to prep your heating too. Your heating appliances are used the most during the holidays so it’s crucial to tune up and repair any damages. Ductless heating systems can be a popular choice for homeowners because of their energy efficiency and low maintenance, but they can still be prone to damages. Nothing makes for a miserable winter than a busted heater, which is why it’s crucial to check for potential damages.

When You Need to Repair Your Ductless Heating System

Just like any major appliance, your ductless heating system is prone to a variety of problems. The average lifespan of a ductless heating system is usually up to 20 years with proper maintenance. Over time, your heater breaks down from use and damages. You may also be dealing with more problems if your ductless heating system is nearing the end of its lifespan. It’s best to catch and repair the problems early, as that ensures your heater will work effectively this winter. To stay warm this winter, here are a few problems to watch out for.

  • Leaking fluids. Your ductless heating should never leak any fluids, but if it is, your heater could be leaking refrigerant. In order to transfer heat throughout your home, your system is equipped with refrigerant. Refrigerant is toxic for your health and a heater empty of refrigerant is nothing more than a fan. If your system is leaking fluids, it’s time for a repair.
  • Ice buildup. Whether it’s in the middle of the summer or in the dead of winter, your ductless system can experience problems. If something is wrong with the air conditioning portion of your ductless system, it will affect your heating. Ice buildup on a ductless system might seem harmless when you’re using the air conditioning, but it’s usually a sign that there’s something wrong with the evaporator coil. A dirty coil prevents your ductless system from functioning properly.
  • Lack of efficiency. Starting from day one, your ductless heating system’s efficiency gradually starts to decline. If you start to notice that you’re ductless heating system is cycling more often to keep up with your  system demands, it could be time for a repair.
  • Higher utility bills. As your ductless heating system ages, it wears down and loses its efficiency. A ductless heater usually lasts for 20 years with the proper care, but it’s full of components that can break apart from use and needs repair. The older the heater, the longer it runs to keep your house warm which results in higher utility bills.
  • Unusual sounds. If you start hearing loud or unusual sounds coming out of your ductless heating system, it could be time for a repair. Inside are several different moving parts, and if damaged, they’ll make noises. Squealing indicates that there could be a problem with the fan motor belt. A hissing sound could mean a refrigerant leak.
  • A lack of heat. It sounds obvious, but if you don’t feel any heat coming out of your ductless heating system, it’s in need of urgent repair. The problem could be a clogged air filter or an electrical malfunction. If your ductless system isn’t properly conditioning your home, it’s best to call an HVAC technician.
  • Foul smells. If you start to smell something funky coming out of your ductless heating system, the culprit could be somewhere inside the unit. Foul odors could be caused by the evaporator coil clogged with mold or bacteria. The condensate line could also be clogged, and the water in the pan has mildew. Mold is toxic to your health. If the system starts to smell, you’ll want to repair it immediately.
  • The outdoor unit doesn’t work. Everything inside your house may be functioning fine, but your ductless heating system has an outdoor unit that can wear down as well. If you notice something is off with your outdoor unit, it’s time to call an HVAC technician.

For More Information on All Things Furnace Maintenance, Call NSHEC Today!

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By nshec

4 Signs That A Ductless Mini-Split AC May Be Right For You

Jul 21, 2021

4 Signs That A Ductless Mini-Split AC May Be Right For You

  • Cooling
ductless mini-split

There are a lot of options out there for cooling systems. You have the standard central air systems, evaporative coolers, and even the classic window units. And that’s just scratching the surface of the deep, deep rabbit hole that is the air conditioner market. An often-overlooked variety is the ductless mini-split, which shares qualities of the other more traditional systems.  They are similar to central air systems in their shared indoor air-handling unit as well as an outdoor compressor/condenser. The conduit links the two parts of the system together and contains the refrigerant tubing, power cables, condensate drain and suction tubing. Ductless mini-splits are an increasingly popular choice amongst homeowners in the North Shore area, so we’ve complied a short list of signs that you may want to look at a ductless mini-split.

Your Energy Bill is too High

Money makes the world go round, and there are certainly some financial incentives to adopting a ductless system. Ducted systems, while they have their benefits, aren’t always the most efficient option. With a ductless mini-split, energy loss is generally less than with a ducted system, where losses can be up to 30%. Saving that much on energy costs is nothing to joke about, and will eventually result in a net gain on you finances. Granted, the system does require more regular maintenance than the standard central air system, which mainly consists of a monthly filter care to maintain air quality. But when boiled down to a choice between a higher energy bill or a little more time on maintenance, most folks should be able to make up their minds.

Your Space is not Duct-Friendly

Some spaces are just not constructed in such a way that makes duct work financially realistic. In some cases, especially in certain older buildings, installing ducts may even be impossible.  For those older structures, mobile homes, and newly constructed home additions, a ductless mini-split solution is your best bet for maximum comfort. While we’re on the topic of space, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention how space-friendly ductless mini-split systems are. They can be mounted in any number of ways, including, but not limited to, flush-mounted on the ceiling, hung from the wall or suspended from the ceiling. The sleekly designed Mitsubishi Electric model, in particular, fits in subtly in any environment, and can be unobtrusively installed most anywhere that suits your needs.

You Need to Closely Control the Temperature in a Smaller Area

Ductless mini-split systems are at their strongest when used within a compact space. Depending on need, you may require multiple units to cover a greater area. Alternatively, you may elect to only cool certain high-traffic areas of the home.  Mini-splits offer a great deal of customization and control on the user-end, and can even be programmed to only turn on when the building is occupied, or on a schedule.

You want a system that runs cleaner

You don’t need to be one of our expertly-trained HVAC techs to know: sometimes air ducts can get downright filthy. Air ducts are notorious for being one of the primary areas for a buildup of dust, dirt, pollen, and other contaminants which may be harmful to your health. Ducts require frequent cleaning to maintain interior air quality and ensure occupant safety.  Eschewing ducts altogether, a mini-split denies these harmful materials an easy place to buildup and accumulate over time and also eliminates the need to frequent professional cleanings.

For More Information on All Things HVAC, Call NSHEC Today!

Contact North Shore Home Energy Today!

Check Out Our Current Specials!

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By nshec

Local Ductless Mini Split Installation

Mar 10, 2021

Local Ductless Mini Split Installation

  • Cooling
  • Heating
Ductless Mini Split Installation

Local Ductless Mini Split Installation

If you have a radiant heating system, space heaters or hydronic heat, a ductless mini-split installation might be a good option to add heating & cooling to your home. They are also a good choice when you’re adding rooms to a home that doesn’t have a traditional ducted system, or for spaces that are very energy efficient and only need a small boost. Ductless mini-split systems are similar to standard heat pumps as they have an indoor air-handling unit as well as an outdoor compressor/condenser. The conduit links the two parts of the system together and contains the refrigerant tubing, power cables, condensate drain and suction tubing.

Advantages & Benefits

Ductless systems work well in spaces that are considered too tight for ductwork, or when you need to heat or cool a relatively small space. The specific number of units that you’ll need depends a great deal on the zone that each unit will cover — all dependent on the overall insulation rating of the building. These systems are relatively easy to install as they only require a very small hole (around 3 inches) to run the conduit. Even more convenience is gained because there can be a significant distance between the interior unit and the external condenser, up to 50 feet or more depending on the length of conduits available for your particular system. This allows you to place the unsightly exterior pieces further away from your home or apartment for aesthetic reasons. 

Additional benefits:

  • Energy loss is generally less than with a ducted system, where losses can be up to 30%
  • More flexible options for mounting ductless systems: flush-mounted on the ceiling, hung from the wall, or suspended from the ceiling
  • Are more sleek looking than traditional systems, and often come with a remote control for added convenience
  • Window-mounted units may induce intruders and are less secure than ductless systems, as mini-splits only require a small 3 inch hole in the wall
  • Potential energy savings because the units are more cost-effective and efficient to run
  • Highly customizable: can be programmed to only turn on when the building is occupied, or on a timed schedule
  • Ductless systems run cleaner than a ducted system. Air ducts are one of the primary areas for a buildup of dust, dirt, pollen and other contaminants and require frequent cleaning to maintain interior air quality 

Challenges to Going Ductless

While there are many benefits for using a mini-split system in the right space, there are some disadvantages as well. There is a fair amount of maintenance required such as a monthly washing of filters to maintain air quality and system efficiency. If you inherit an older system that hasn’t been well maintained and it requires professional cleaning, then the cost can be quite high. The installation cost of a mini-split can be higher than a traditional system, but this is balanced by an ongoing lower cost for energy due to efficiency. However, ductless systems often net homeowners a rebate because the systems are so environmentally friendly. Improperly placed systems can cause serious problems — from hot and cold spots throughout your space to inefficiency due to short-cycling. It’s important to always utilize a licensed and bonded HVAC professional when you’re considering a ductless mini-split heat pump. Finally, the outdoor condenser requires a nearby drain location, which can cause ongoing problems if space is a factor.

Successful Ductless Mini-Split Installation

As ductless mini-split systems gain in prominence, more contractors and technicians are comfortable with their installation. However, it’s still important to keep some key factors in mind to ensure that your installation goes smoothly and you continue to enjoy your space comfortably. Here’s some quick tips for successful installation:

  • Wire power supplies directly from the indoor unit to the outdoor unit, without a junction box or disconnect switch between the two
  • Control the voltage — only use the correct gauge wire for your installation 
  • Ensure that units are hung a minimum of six feet in the air for maximum efficiency
  • Limit obstacles in the area that might impede or reduce air flow
  • Check and double-check that the unit is rated for the room size
  • Insulate both the liquid and suction lines to prevent lines from ‘sweating’

Warning Signs

Even the most secure installations can run into problems, and ductless mini-splits are no different from traditional ducted systems in this regard. If you experience instances where there’s cold air coming through your heating vents, it’s time to call a professional. While the resolution may be quite simple, this can also be a harbinger of a more serious issue and should be resolved. If your system is short-cycling — or running for only a short period of time before turning off and then running again — you may be facing a problem. Short-cycling drives up your energy costs and puts a great deal of strain on the system overall, which can result in expensive problems in a very short period of time. Finally, if your energy costs are going up and there doesn’t appear to be a corresponding change in external temperatures, you might be having problems that require professional assistance.

Life Expectancy of A Ductless Mini-Split Installation

With proper cleaning and maintenance, your ductless mini-split heat pump system should last between 12 – 15 years. As long as you keep debris, vegetation, and snow away from your external unit (and keep your compressor relatively clean) you should have no problem extending the life of your unit. It’s also important to keep in mind that these systems work best between 14 degrees Fahrenheit and 109 degrees Fahrenheit. Outside that range, the unit may not be able to handle the load. 

If you have a relatively small space or want to tightly manage the temperature of your home, a ductless mini-split system is a great option for homeowners. Ensure that you have the system installed by a qualified, licensed professional and as long as you continue regular maintenance on the system you should enjoy years of worry-free convenience and comfort in your home.

For More Ductless Mini Split Installation Information Call NSHEC Today

Contact North Shore Home Energy Today!

Check Out Our Current Specials!

Read The Great Things That Your Neighbors Are Saying About NSHEC.

By nshec

8 Signs You Need A Ductless Heating System Repair

Oct 30, 2020

8 Signs You Need A Ductless Heating System Repair

  • Heating
Ductless Heating Repair

8 Signs You Need A Ductless Heating System Repair

The winter season is almost here, which means we’re all thinking about the same thing… our ductless heating systems. Well, maybe you’re thinking about holiday treats, family time, and gift-giving, but don’t forget that this is the best time to prep your heating too. Your heating appliances are used the most during the holidays so it’s crucial to tune up and repair any damages. Ductless heating systems can be a popular choice for homeowners because of their energy efficiency and low maintenance, but they can still be prone to damages. Nothing makes for a miserable winter than a busted heater, which is why it’s crucial to check for potential damages and schedule a ductless heating system repair.

When A Ductless Heating System Repair Is Needed

Just like any major appliance, your ductless heating system is prone to a variety of problems. The average lifespan of a ductless heating system is usually up to 20 years with proper maintenance. Over time, your heater breaks down from use and damages. You may also be dealing with more problems if your ductless heating system is nearing the end of its lifespan. It’s best to catch and repair the problems early, as that ensures your heater will work effectively this winter. To stay warm this winter, here are a few problems to watch out for.

  • Leaking fluids. Your ductless heating should never leak any fluids, but if it is, your heater could be leaking refrigerant. In order to transfer heat throughout your home, your ductless heating system is equipped with refrigerant. Refrigerant is toxic for your health and a heater empty of refrigerant is nothing more than a fan. If your ductless heating system is leaking fluids, it’s time for a repair.
  • Ice buildup. Whether it’s in the middle of the summer or in the dead of winter, your ductless system can experience problems. If something is wrong with the air conditioning portion of your ductless system, it will affect your heating. Ice buildup on a ductless system might seem harmless when you’re using the air conditioning, but it’s usually a sign that there’s something wrong with the evaporator coil. A dirty coil prevents your ductless system from functioning properly.
  • Lack of efficiency. Starting from day one, your ductless heating system’s efficiency gradually starts to decline. If you start to notice that you’re ductless heating system is cycling more often to keep up with your heating demands, it could be time for a repair.
  • Higher utility bills. As your ductless heating system ages, it wears down and loses its efficiency. A ductless heater usually lasts for 20 years with the proper care, but it’s full of components that can break apart from use and needs repair. The older the heater, the longer it runs to keep your house warm which results in higher utility bills.
  • Unusual sounds. If you start hearing loud or unusual sounds coming out of your ductless heating system, it could be time for a repair. Inside are several different moving parts, and if damaged, they’ll make noises. Squealing indicates that there could be a problem with the fan motor belt. A hissing sound could mean a refrigerant leak.
  • A lack of heat. It sounds obvious, but if you don’t feel any heat coming out of your ductless heating system, it’s in need of urgent repair. The problem could be a clogged air filter or an electrical malfunction. If your ductless system isn’t properly conditioning your home, it’s best to call an HVAC technician.
  • Foul smells. If you start to smell something funky coming out of your ductless heating system, the culprit could be somewhere inside the unit. Foul odors could be caused by the evaporator coil clogged with mold or bacteria. The condensate line could also be clogged, and the water in the pan has mildew. Mold is toxic to your health. If the ductless heating system starts to smell, you’ll want to repair it immediately.
  • The outdoor unit doesn’t work. Everything inside your house may be functioning fine, but your ductless heating system has an outdoor unit that can wear down as well. If you notice something is off with your outdoor unit, it’s time to call an HVAC technician.

What makes North Shore Home Energy the best choice for a Ductless Heating System Repair?

At North Shore Home Energy, the experts in split system heating unit installation and maintenance, work to make the entire process as seamless as possible for your home. Our professionals are trained, certified and only top-notch equipment and industry leading technology to ensure that our customers are satisfied.  Contact North Shore Home Energy today to learn more about how we can equip your home with a ductless-split system heating system. North Shore Home Energy LLC is a small local dedicated HVAC & Refrigeration service company in the North Shore providing excellent service to homes, businesses, and restaurants. With over 25 years in the industry, North Shore Home Energy is here to educate our customers on maintenance and strive for 100% customer satisfaction. Our attention to detail, on-demand service, and fair pricing will keep you running smoothly year after year. We are a proud participating contractor with the Mass Save program.

By nshec

Split System Air Conditioners: What Are They and What Are Their Benefits?

Jun 29, 2020

Split System Air Conditioners: What Are They and What Are Their Benefits?

  • Cooling
split system air conditioner installation by North Shore Home Energy

Keeping up with home maintenance, especially during the winter season can be overwhelming, but the holidays are the perfect time of year to take stock of your appliances. Your HVAC system works especially hard when the snow falls, and it may be time for a replacement. The older your HVAC unit gets, the less effective it is. Outdated air conditioners are more than just a nuisance; they can cause a variety of safety hazards such as mold, gas leaks, and electrical fires. If it’s time to replace your air conditioner, you might want to consider a split system air conditioner.

When it’s Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner

Eventually, it will get to the point that your air conditioner just can’t function as well as it used to. An air conditioner on its last leg not only affects your comfort, but your wallet, and the older it gets, the harder it works. Replacing your air conditioner can be expensive, but a damaged air conditioner can wind up costing you more in repairs and damages, damages which can be dangerous for your home and your health. Luckily there are plenty of warning signs when your air conditioner is nearing the end of its life. Here’s what to watch for.

  • An air conditioner that’s over 10 years old. Most air conditioners have an average lifespan of 15-20 years. If your AC unit is in the double digits, it might be time for a replacement.
  • Your home feels warm and stuffy. It might sound obvious, but if you start noticing that your home feels uncomfortable, the problem might have something to do with your air conditioner. Feel around your AC unit, if you feel little to no cool air, it might be time for a replacement.
  • Your home is dusty. An air conditioner on its deathbed will have a hard time filtering the air in your home, which can result in excessive dust everywhere. If your home seems dustier than usual, it might have something to do with your AC unit.

Why a Split System Should Be Your Next Air Conditioner

The difference between centralized air conditioning and a split system air conditioner comes down to ventilation. A split system doesn’t use air ducts to heat or cool your home which can be ideal for small homes or homeowners planning on adding to their home. As the name implies, a split system has two units, one indoors and one outdoors, and are built to efficiently cool your home. Don’t wait if your air conditioner needs a replacement, here is how a split system air conditioner can benefit you.

  • It’s easy to install. One great perk for a split system air conditioner is the lack of an air duct system. Packaged or centralized air conditioners are limited by the air ducts in your home, which means you have to install around your air duct system. Instead of connecting the unit to the air ducts, a split system only needs two holes drilled in the wall for the copper tubes and wiring. As long as both units are within 100 feet of each other, you can install a split system air conditioner just about anywhere.
  • They’re energy efficient. One of the best perks of a split system is its energy efficiency. Since there are no air ducts, there is no energy wasted, because the chilled air or heat is delivered directly into each room. A split system air conditioner gives you more control over which rooms you want to be cooled or heated, meaning you don’t have to run units in rooms that are unused.  
  • It’s quiet. If you want some peace and quiet, rest assured you can with a split system air conditioner. The noisiest parts of an air conditioner, such as the fan and the condenser, are located in the outdoor unit, meaning there is minimal noise when your split system air conditioner is in use.
  • It’s easy maintenance. There’s enough inside your home that requires routine maintenance, and luckily your split system is easy to maintain. There’s less to maintain because there are no ducts, and split system air conditioners have washable air filters, and easily accessible outdoor units.
  • You save money on your utility bills. Since a split system air conditioner is built to be energy efficient, it means you can save money on your utility bills. Unlike a centralized air conditioner, a split system  is built to speed up or slow down the compressor instead of shutting it down entirely, which can save up to 30% on your utility bills. Some split system air conditioners may also qualify for a tax rebate.

Don’t Wait Until the Air Conditioner Busts

Investing in an energy efficient appliance may be a lot cheaper than the upkeep of an older air conditioner. If it’s time to replace your AC unit, a split system air conditioner is the right alternative, as it’s easy to install, cheaper in cost, and easy to maintain. No homeowner wants to deal with a busted air conditioner. Call North Shore Home Energy today!

By nshec