Switching ductless mini-splits from cooling to heating can be a challenging task, but not impossible and essential for the harsh Massachusetts winters. It’s important that you understand the insulation factor in order to ensure that your ductless mini-split is operating at its best. So how do you get your ductless mini-split ready for the winter? Keep reading to find out.
What are ductless mini-splits?
Ductless mini-splits are heating and cooling systems that provide the same level of comfort as a central systems with ducts, but without all the ductwork! Home insulation should be properly installed to help lower energy bills and ensure your mini-split is functioning at it’s best.
The Mistubishi ductless mini-split comes with two types of coils: one for air conditioning and one for heating. The AC coil is made up primarily of copper tubing filled with refrigerant, while the heat pump has aluminum tubes containing an environmentally safe fluid called hydrocarbons (HC). Hydrocarbon fluids have low viscosity levels so they can function most effectively when temperatures drop below freezing.
How do ductless mini-splits work?
To use a ductless mini-split system for heating, you must first set the unit’s mode switch on “heat” and turn off the A/C function so you can control both functions independently of each other. This is because ductless mini-splits that are set to “heat” have an HC heat pump coil. This is the most efficient type of heating unit available on today’s market. Maximize your indoor comfort by using it properly.
They have two main components – an outdoor compressor and the indoor air handling unit. A conduit connects the two components. This conduit houses the power cable, refrigerant tubing, suction tubing, and a condensate drain line to catch any dripping water.
The Mistubishi ductless mini-split comes with a remote control for easy operation, but if you don’t have a remote, you can switch modes using the unit’s onboard electronic controls. When ductless mini-splits are set to “cooling,” air is pushed through the AC coil by the fan in your evaporator unit. In heat mode, that same fan blows air over the HC heating coils and into your ductwork or indoor space.
Types of Insulation for Your Home
There are many different types of insulation you can use in your home. A home improvement expert will know exactly which one will work best in your home and for your HVAC system. Depending on what region you live in as well will depending on how high the insulation r values should be too. Here are a few types to consider:
Fiberglass Insulation
Although fiberglass insulation is the most common insulation type for homes, it should not be installed near ductless mini-splits. It contains cellulose that can cause corrosion to copper coils and other components over time.
Spray Foam Insulation
Blown-in spray foam is injected between walls at specific intervals during the installation process. It expands up to 30 times its original size once contact with air has been made; this creates air sealing against all types of leaks while also providing superior thermal protection to any metal surface. Spray foam along with mini-splits offer the ultimate humidity control.
Cellulose Insulation
Cellulose insulation is the best type of material to use if working on an existing duct system. It has a higher resistance than fiberglass and can be blown into pipes or ducts. This means it’s less likely to impede airflow.
Benefits of Installing Insulation to Maximize Your Ductless Mini-Splits Efforts
By installing ductless mini-splits in your home, you’ll enjoy a multitude of benefits. Some of the top reasons homeowners choose ductless split systems include:
• Improved Indoor Air Quality – when used properly and combined with an air purifier, they can significantly improve overall indoor air quality. This is because they filter out pollen and other allergens from incoming outdoor air.
• Increased Energy Efficiency – this is one of the most notable advantages to using ductless air conditioning and heating units; it allows for better control over heating or cooling throughout different areas of your home. It uses a wall-mounted thermostat in each zone of your home allowing you to condition multiple rooms or leave some rooms untouched.
• Reduced Noise Pollution – duct work can carry noise from one room to the next. Eliminating the need for ducts eliminates noise pollution with each room getting their own indoor units. While these systems are not completely silent, they operate much more quietly than central heating and cooling units.
• Flexibility – anywhere there is an electrical outlet, you can install a ductless split. This includes basements or rooms without windows where ventilation ducting may be difficult to install. Mini-splits are small and can have multiple indoor air handlers per outdoor unit, allowing them to heat and cool multiple rooms at different temperatures.
Note: Proper insulation is necessary to achieve these benefits!
Proper Insulation Is Key
Ductless mini-splits are designed for specific types of insulation. When adding insulation or having insulation upgrades completed, the insulation needs to be compatible with Mitsubishi ductless mini-split systems. Check this before installation to ensure proper performance and warranty coverage.
In order for your indoor units to keep warm air in and cold air out this winter, your insulation needs to be updated and sufficient.
Choose the Best Ductless Mini-Split
The best choice for ductless mini-split systems are Mistubishi ductless mini splits. However, you need proper installation and insulating techniques to get them working at their full potential.
Properly insulated your home this winter. This keeps your hard earned dollars heating your home, rather than escaping outdoors. It you have a ductless mini-split, you want it to work it’s best for your heating and cooling needs. Make sure that you properly insulate so your Mistubishi mini-split can keep your home comfortable all year round.
Contact Wattson Home Solutions today to get a free estimate on how you can save energy and money with proper insulation and a Mitsubishi Ductless Mini-Split! Call today at (855) 627-7674 and remember, we offer no-cost home energy assessments!
