Burlington MA Heating and Air Conditioning Blog

Ductless Mini Splits Have a Cool History

After World War II, air conditioning manufacturers in the U.S. were excited to cash in on Japan’s sweltering summers. That’s when air conditioners were first introduced to Japan.

The Japanese absolutely loved the idea of Air Conditioning, but...

Home and building owners in Japan were deeply disappointed. Mitsubishi’s early A/C systems could not be used in Japan for a few interesting reasons.

Japanese homes were famously small, thin walled and tightly clustered together. Not a good match for loud, droning AC’s and their massive, bulky duct work.

Also, Japan’s energy costs were sky high then. That alone meant doom for the earlier, energy hogging AC’s.

Japan’s response? Revolutionize the Air Conditioner

Again, the Japanese adored the idea of AC’s, so their manufacturing engineers quietly went to work.

In 1959, Mitsubishi finally succeeded in reinventing air conditioning. They introduced the Ductless Mini Split Heating and Cooling System.

Mitusbushi 5-zone ductless hyperheat installtion, Burlington, M

(Almost) All the world loved it

Mitsubishi’s “split” technology enabled each room to have its own temperature zone, eliminated bulky duct work, ran quieter and was much more energy efficient.

In time, the popularity of these unique systems spread across Europe and other parts of the world...but not here in the United States. Distributors said no.

Mitsubishi mini splits finally make it in America

Decades later, Mitsubishi’s AC marketers became savvier at directly educating U.S. consumers. The response was dramatic. Now, hundreds of thousands of ductless mini splits are sold in the U.S. every year.

Continuous improvement

Manufacturers continuously advanced their ductless technologies - with Mitsubishi leading the pack. The latest systems are far more energy efficient. They’re quieter still, run cleaner and they meticulously filter out allergens.

When reviewed, HVAC contractors and homeowners consistently give high marks to Mitsubishi’s ductless systems.

Total Comfort Mechanical has installed over 1,000 Mitsubishi mini splits

...and requests continue to surge because Mitsubishi systems

  • Run quietly
  • Conserve space
  • Use less energy
  • Save money
  • Are highly reliable

Mitsubishi ductless mini split installation, Burlington MA

Best uses for ductless mini splits

  • Older homes without space for duct systems
  • New additions
  • Underutilized rooms
  • Garages, basements and attics

Picture your home with quiet, ductless, zoned heating and cooling

If that looks good to you, we’ll pass along financing and tax credit information to help you save money. We’ll expertly plan and affordably price custom solutions for your home or business.

Our expertise increases with every installation. You’ll love experiencing our team’s expert workmanship, but not as much as you’ll love the quiet and air quality of your state-of-art system. 

Contact us at totalcomfort@live.com or call (781) 697-9016 

 

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This entry was tagged Energy Efficiency, AC, Ductless, Air Conditioning, Air Conditioner, Mitsubishi AC, MiniSplit, Ductless AC, Mitsubishi and posted on January 10, 2019

HVAC for Dummies - Heating and Air, HVAC for the Average Joe

Everything you wanted to know about Air Conditioning

HVAC (Heating - Ventilation - Air Conditioning) can sometimes be overwhelming.  Here we'll break down some of the most commonly used terms in the business, so the next time you call your heating and air conditioning service specialist for help, you'll impress the expert!


HVAC-for-Dummies

Air Conditioning, HVAC for Dummies

  • Air conditioner: A mechanical device used to control temperature and air movement in a confined space.
  • BTU/H: (British Thermal Units per Hour): A measure of cooling or heating capacity.
  • Capacity or Load: A refrigeration rating system usually measured in Btu/h.
  • Compressor: A refrigeration or air-conditioning system pump that circulates refrigerant through pipes between an outdoor and indoor unit using pressure.
  • Ductless Mini-SplitDuctless systems consist of one or more outdoor compressor units and indoor air-handling units, called “heads”, linked by a dedicated refrigerant line. There is no ductwork required.
  • External Static Pressure (ESP): Measure of static pressure losses from ductwork, fittings, dampers, grills, and any other devices located in the airstream.
  • Freon: See Refrigerant.
  • Heat pump: An air conditioning system that provides either heating or cooling - because it can reverse the direction of refrigerant flow.
  • HSPF (Heating Season Performance Factor): A rating of the seasonal efficiency of a heat pump unit when operating in the heating mode.
  • Indoor unit: The air handler of the air conditioning system.  It contains a heat exchange coil, filters, remote signal receiver and fan.
  • Outdoor Unit: A component of the air conditioning system which contains the compressor, fan, circuit board, and heat exchange coil. It pumps refrigerant to or from the indoor unit.
  • Refrigerant: Many people commonly refer to refrigerant as Freon, which is actually a 'brand' name (much like Kleenex).  Refrigerant is a gas/liquid substance that is used to provide cooling, by direct absorption of heat. The most environmentally-friendly refrigerant at this time is R410A.
  • Refrigerant lines: Insulated copper tubing through which refrigerant flows to and from the indoor and outdoor unit.
  • SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio): The rating of the seasonal efficiency of air conditioning or heating units.  The higher the SEER, the more energy efficient the unit is.
  • Split-Ductless System: A system comprised of a remote outdoor condensing unit connected by refrigerant pipes to a matching, non-ducted indoor air handler and a remote controller. Special cases for introducing ventilated air may call for limited ducting to air handler from outside.
  • Split-zoning System: A system comprised of a remote outdoor condensing unit connected by refrigerant pipes to a matching, indoor air handler that conditions single or multiple room space that is conditioned to a set temperature and is independent from other rooms within the same structure.
  • Zone (zoning): A single or multiple room space that is conditioned to a set temperature and is independent from other rooms within the same structure.

 


 

Burlington MA Heating Air Service Area

A trained and licensed HVAC contractor can help you determine the appropriate options for your home's air conditioning. For more information, contact the Total Comfort Mechanical Heating and Air Conditioning Service  website or call us at (781) 697-9016.

 


 

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This entry was tagged AC, Ductless, Tips, Heating, Air Conditioning, MiniSplit and posted on August 29, 2014

Ductless Air Conditioning - It's so HOT Right Now

What is a Ductless Mini-Split air conditioning system?  Only one of the hottest-selling cooling systems in the country - Massachusetts included!  A trend that took Europe by storm and is now heading westward, these modern, energy-efficient and stylish air conditioners have become such fast sellers that Mitsubishi is challenged to keep up with the growing demand. 

Mitsubishi, the world’s top-selling brand of ductless cooling and heating systems, experienced a complete sell-out of its 2013 U.S. inventory well before the end of last year.  This caused limited availability and back-orders with Mitsubishi Diamond HVAC specialists throughout the United States.

Mitsubishi Full Stock Burlington MA

Nearly six weeks ago, the out-of-stock inventory was made available again and has been flying off the shelves ever since. “Heating and air conditioning specialists” Total Comfort Mechanical of Burlington, MA happily announced the new 2014 mini-split systems were back in stock and contacted their customers to arrange installation to those that had been anxiously awaiting their new Mitsubishi ductless mini-split systems. 

The ductless mini-split wave is keeping HVAC contractors extremely busy. "We can hardly keep up with the demand", said Total Comfort Mechanical owner Wendell DePaiva. "We've had so many requests for ductless installs that we completely wiped out our inventory in just a few weeks," DePaiva said, "but we have already restocked and are ready to install."  

It seems Massachusetts residents are some of the most energy-conscious the country - the U.S. Green Building Council recently ranked the state #4 in the top 10 list of states leading the nation in green building.

How Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioners Work

Like central air conditioners, ductless units have a split design and don't require a complicated system of ducts. The split system (also called a mini-split, ductless split, or duct-free system) has at least one indoor unit in the home or office (this is the evaporator) and one outdoor unit (the condenser).  Line sets, which are copper tubes of refrigerant, are run to the indoor unit from the outdoor unit.

The indoor component can be mounted on the ceiling or the wall and are extremely quiet when in operation. Read more about ductless ac systems here.

Mitsubishi Ductless MiniSplit installed

With the booming popularity of ductless systems, the product selection is getting wider - many electronics manufacturers now offer their versions of ductless appliances. Considering that many smaller brand names typically don't specialize in heating and cooling solutions, it's important to note that it can be a challenge to find qualified technicians to install and service them. 

The specialists at Total Comfort Mechanical recommend sticking with a trusted, industry leader that provides a solid warranty on their product and has a network of certified and trained Diamond Contractors to perform the installation and service.  "It's smart to get a few estimates from qualified and certified HVAC contractors before making the investment," DePaiva advises.  

Check with your local Better Business Bureau or other local chamber organizations to learn about the reputation of the heating and air conditioning contractors in your area. Burlington MA residents and neighboring MA cities can request a quote or more information on ductless AC solutions here or the following link:

 Ask A PRO

Related Ductless MiniSplit articles:

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This entry was tagged Energy Efficiency, Energy Rebates, Ductless, Burlington MA, Air Conditioning, Air Conditioner, Mitsubishi AC, MiniSplit, Ductless AC, Mitsubishi and posted on April 08, 2014

Congress Extends Energy Tax Credits on Air Conditioning & Heating

tax-credit-300x91

Finally there’s some good news from Washington DC. Relief has been provided to homeowners that have made energy efficiency improvements in 2013 or plan to invest in such improvements this year.

While representatives haggled over the notorious “Fiscal Cliff” earlier this year, Congress voted to extend the popular Federal tax credits for Consumer Energy Efficiency. This serves as an incentive to upgrade systems in existing homes by installing energy- efficient air conditioning systems, heat pumps and hot water heaters. Other improvements such as roofing, windows and insulation may also qualify.

The tax credit amount varies depending on the type of energy-efficient heating and air conditioning component(s) installed. To be eligible, the products must be installed in a home that you own and serves as your primary residence.

Central Air Conditioning products must meet certain minimum Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER) or Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) to qualify. Heat Pumps are given a Heat Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF). The higher the SEER, EER or HSPF, the more efficient the system is.

Which heating and air conditioning improvements are eligible for the Federal tax credit?

Central Air Conditioning Systems (CACs)

  • Split Systems (outdoor compressor, indoor evaporator coil and air handler) 16 SEER, 13 EER or above
  • Package Systems (all-in-one outdoor pack) rated 14 SEER, 12 EER or above
  • Tax Credit amount: 10% of cost, maximum credit: $300.00

Geothermal Heat Pumps

Air Source Heat Pumps

  • Split Systems with a minimum 8.5 HSPF, 12.5 EER, or 15 SEER
  • Package Systems with a minimum 8 HSPF, 12 EER, or 14 SEER
  • Tax Credit amount: 10% of cost, maximum credit: $300.00

Natural Gas, Propane or Oil Furnaces and Boilers

  • Must be rated AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) 95% or above
  • Tax Credit amount: 10% of cost, maximum credit: $150.00

Most of the tax credits allow inclusion of the cost of installation in the eligible amount, but there is a lifetime maximum credit allowance of $500.00. If you have or plan to install energy-efficient products, call Total Comfort Mechanical Heating and Air Conditioning in Burlington, MA – to consult with professional HVAC experts and find out if any other rebates are available. Be sure to also consult a tax advisor for specific details when filing your tax r

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This entry was tagged Energy Rebates, AC, Ductless, Pumps, Air Conditioning, Heat Pumps, MiniSplit, Heat, Energy Tax Credit and posted on June 06, 2013

7 Benefits of Ductless Air Conditioning Systems

Mr. Slim Ductless Mini Split AC installed
Mr. Slim Ductless Mini Split AC installed

Ductless air conditioning is quickly gaining popularity in the US, as it is in Europe and Asia over recent years – for many reasons. A Ductless (mini-split) AC unit is an efficient and affordable alternative to the traditional central heating and air conditioning systems that require a network of duct lines to circulate air.

In older homes that have no ducts or a newly-built home that doesn’t use forced-air heat (with no ductwork), installing a central A/C system can be extremely costly. Opting for a ductless air conditioner or even multiple units to cool different zones in the home is a more affordable solution.

Multi-zone outdoor units connect more than two indoor units, providing individualized comfort control to different areas within the home. For example, the Mitsubishi Ductless outdoor multi-zone units can be configured for as many as four or more individual ductless air conditioning units. Mini-split systems also are excellent for sun rooms and homes with hydronic heating.

Ductless indoor units (also known as ductless mini-splits) can also be controlled with convenient remote controls – both wireless and wall-mounted programmable touch-screen thermostat controls and WI-FI.

7 benefits of Ductless Air Conditioning:

Ductless MiniSplit AC in Lexington MA
A multi-zone ductless AC installation in Lexington, MA
  1. Energy- efficient technology, Environmentally-friendly
  2. Easy to install & operate
  3. Compact in size
  4. Quiet Operation
  5. Allergen Filtration
  6. Precise and total Comfort Control

And number 7, they save money. Ductless air conditioning uses less energy than traditional air conditioning systems, which can dramatically reduce your energy usage. For zoned systems, you can control individual room temperature and only use energy where and when you need it!

Consult with an HVAC professional to determine if a ductless air conditioning system is a viable option for your home and to get recommendations on which product options are right for you. Diamond Contractors that specialize in ductless A/C system installation and trained experts like those at Total Comfort Mechanical in Massachusetts can give you a quick estimate and also find out if any other rebates and tax credits are available.

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This entry was tagged AC, Ductless, Air Conditioning, Air Conditioner, MiniSplit, Lexington MA and posted on May 28, 2013

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