There is an option out there for both cooling and heating that has been growing in popularity recently. That’s the ductless system. Instead of operating through a network of ducts connected to an indoor air handler and evaporator unit, a ductless system basically breaks up the indoor unit and the blower fans in order to distribute conditioned air throughout the home in the form of air handlers, mounted high up on the wall of the room it’s intended for.
If you’ve ever been in a home or building (they’re most often seen in hotels these days) and have seen something on the wall that resembles a window air conditioner but doesn’t go back through the wall, then you’re looking at a component of the ductless system—an air handler—which is connected to a single outdoor unit, essentially creating the same effect as a central heat pump without the air ducts. There are numerous advantages to using this type of air conditioning in Coral Springs, FL—namely, its efficiency.
But, there are also unique needs to be aware of. In particular, repair needs.
Does This Mean There are Disadvantages to Going Ductless?
Not necessarily! These systems aren’t right for every home—for instance, it typically is most advantageous for larger homes with multiple rooms or stories. What we are talking about here, though, is the factors that make ductless systems unique when it comes to repair needs.
The main reason you should be aware of these specific needs is so that you’ll understand how important it is that you have your ductless system professionally installed by trained and experienced technicians. Keep reading to learn more about these unique repair needs.
Water Leaks Behind Air Handlers: Each wall-mounted air handler unit has a series of connections attached to it, which are routed through a hole behind said air handler. This includes a power line, refrigerant line, and condensate line. The condensate line is responsible for removing water moisture from the cooling process so the moisture doesn’t enter your living space, instead.
It is possible for these lines to leak. And when other water or fluid starting to develop between the back of the air handler and the wall, that wall material will weaken until it eventually causes the air handler to rip away from the wall, and likely fall off. Obviously, this damages your actual property. But it also will very likely break the air handler too.
If you do notice or suspect any water damage around an air handler, be sure to call us for ductless repair services!
Broken Air Handlers: Let’s start off with some good news on this topic before we get any further. If a single air handler breaks down because of a failed motor or some other isolated issue, the remaining air handlers throughout the home will still continue to run.
The only part of your home that will lose cooling (or heating) is the room that houses the broken air handler. You will still want to call for repairs as soon as you can, of course. But fortunately, there’s no need to worry about the whole house losing out on conditioned air while you wait for a repair technician to show up.
Refrigerant Leaks: This last issue is actually not unique to ductless systems—it can happen to and affect any type of central air conditioner. However, the reason the risk and urgency is higher with a ductless system is because of the way your refrigerant lines run through the home. Not only will your system suffer, but your home can sustain property damage. Be sure to call for repairs ASAP if you suspect you have a refrigerant leak.
For more information about ductless mini splits or any other AC services, contact Envirotech Air Quality Services today!
