Upgrading to Mini-Splits: Modernizing Heating Systems in Cape Coral, FL Homes
Ductless mini-splits have been around for more than 60 years. While popular throughout the world, they have only recently taken off in the United States.
Ductless mini-splits offer many advantages. These include increased energy efficiency, lower utility bills, and more accurate and easier cooling and heating maintenance throughout your home.
This article covers the basics of ductless mini-splits as well as a detailed breakdown of the benefits they can afford. Keep reading to find out if they might be the right choice for your Cape Coral home.
What Are Ductless Mini-Splits?
Ductless mini-splits are HVAC systems that use many of the same processes as traditional systems to heat or cool air. However, these happen in different locations.
As the name suggests, ductless mini-splits do not require a system of ducts to transport air. The main conversion process happens right at the wall unit, in the space you wish to heat or cool.
The indoor unit, which is usually wall-mounted, houses an evaporator coil and blower fan. It takes in warm air, removes the heat using refrigerant, and then pushes the cool air back out into the room.
It does have an outdoor unit that connects to the indoor one through small copper piping and electrical wiring. The outdoor unit houses the compressor and condenser that releases the warmed air and re-cools the refrigerant. These are much smaller and quieter than most whole-home units.
Like other HVAC systems, ductless mini-splits range in size and capacity. Most standard ones will heat or cool a space between 400 and 600 square feet. However, there are specialty mini-splits that can tackle much larger spaces.
Advantages of Ductless Mini-Splits
There are many distinct advantages of ductless mini-split systems. Here are the main ones to consider.
More Precise Cooling and Heating Maintenance
One of the biggest advantages of ductless mini-splits is the precision with which you can control climate throughout your home. This means you can heat particularly drafty rooms without cranking up the heat throughout your entire home.
It also means you are not heating or cooling areas of your home that you do not use as often. You can lower or raise the temp in these spaces, or completely shut down these units, if you prefer.
More precise cooling and heating maintenance can provide a higher level of comfort for family members who prefer different temperatures. It can be ideal for homes with infants or elderly family members who are more sensitive to different temperatures.
Energy Efficiency and Utility Savings
It is easy to see how flexible zoning throughout your home, including the ability to turn off units in rooms you do not always use, can lead to serious energy savings over time. Mini-splits are very efficient in general.
Also, a lot of energy can be lost traveling through a system of ducts. That is due to the long distances that air often has to go from the condenser/evaporator unit on one end of the house to rooms on the other. Even without any major cracks or damage, energy loss could be as high as 30 percent.
Ductless mini-splits carry out the air temperature adjustments in the rooms where they exist. This alone contributes to greater energy efficiency and huge cost savings over time.
Less Maintenance
Ductless mini-splits are very reliable and durable. You can expect quality systems to last 25 to 30 years or longer.
You might assume, with many different units throughout your home, that maintenance may be more intensive. This is not the case. Ductless mini-splits are very easy to care for.
Many come with reusable air filters. These require the occasional removal and rinsing under a faucet to remove dust and other particles. It is quite easy and saves money on disposable filters.
Less Inconvenience When Repairs Are Needed
If you have a centralized HVAC system, when breakdowns happen, your entire home is without heating or cooling capacity. Depending on the scope of the project, that could mean days or even weeks. In the South Florida heat, that is not only a matter of convenience and comfort, but one of safety as well.
Although controls can be centralized using wi-fi and smartphone capabilities, each ductless mini-split operates independently. If there is an issue with one system, it does not affect the others. That means you can keep the rest of your home comfortable, even if you are having cooling or heating repairs done.
Flexible Use
Ductless mini-splits can replace your whole-home HVAC system, with units in various rooms or parts of the house. You can also integrate them with existing systems.
This is a popular option for spaces that have been added on, including sheds, garages, workspaces, or attics converted into living areas. Most importantly, it keeps you from having to expand your system of ductwork to that area.
What About the Cost?
One drawback to ductless mini-splits is cost. However, this is relative.
Individual systems can cost between $2,000 and $4,000, depending on their size. Keep in mind though that you are not comparing apples to apples when looking at ducltess mini-splits versus whole-home systems.
One consideration is the cost savings you will see down the road. As mentioned, this includes everything from lower utility bills to less maintenance. This especially extends to the elimination of ducts throughout your home that need to be repaired or replaced over time.
Finally, installing ductless mini-splits is minimally invasive. It is a far less arduous process than a whole-home HVAC system replacement. Professional HVAC companies can complete the job in a day or two, including the removal of old ductwork and existing system components.
Learn More From an Experienced Fort Myers HVAC Company
Now that you understand how mini-splits work and the many advantages they can provide, you can determine if they are the right choice for your home. They can offer superior control and convenience, last for decades, and help lower your monthly utility bills.
For over 50 years, Ellsworths Heating and Cooling has been providing the highest quality cooling and heating maintenance in Fort Myers and Cape Coral. We are a licensed dealer of Daikin, Lennox, and Trane, but will work on any make and model. Reach out to us to discuss improved Fort Myers heating maintenance or cooling solutions today.
Surviving the Florida Heat: Tips for Keeping Your Home Cool and Comfortable in Cape Coral, FL
Did you know Florida is the hottest state in the U.S.? The aptly nicknamed Sunshine State has an average temperature of a scorching 73.4 °F.
Louisiana, with an average temperature of 68.5 °F, and Texas, with an average temperature of 68 °F, come in at numbers two and three on the list of the hottest states in the US of A.
If you have a home in Cape Coral, FL, you'll want to know how to keep your space cool and comfortable inside even when it's hot outside.
Keep reading for tips to survive the Florida heat to be as cool as a cucumber.
Maintain Your HVAC Unit
One of the best ways to keep your home and its occupants cool in the Florida heat is to ensure your HVAC equipment is functioning correctly. That means scheduling maintenance to keep it in tip-top shape.
A quality HVAC unit appropriately installed and maintained regularly will serve you well for many years. Doing these things will also reduce the need for costly repairs that cost a small fortune.
You don't want to delay or ignore maintenance and then find yourself with a malfunctioning HVAC unit when the mercury in the thermometer is climbing to sweat-inducing heights. Proper HVAC unit care is a must.
Consult your HVAC homeowners guide to determine the recommended service intervals and contact a reputable HVAC technician for professional service.
Know When to Go the Take-Out Route
When the temperature is high, the last thing you should do is turn on your stove or oven for extended periods. Doing so can make the temperature inside your home even hotter than outside your home.
So, you need to know when to patronize one of your neighborhood eateries. Of course, it'll cost you to eat out, but that's better than suffering through extreme heat due to cooking indoors.
If you want to avoid ordering food, you can cook a meal on your BBQ grill. Many families have one on their back deck. A hot day is the perfect day to pull out the burgers, fish, steaks, and veggies to grill up a feast.
Cooking outdoors will ensure your house isn't hotter than it needs to be. It'll also help with cooling your home since the HVAC equipment won't have to work overtime to achieve your desired temperature.
Insulate Your Attic
If you're considering home cooling tips, remember your attic. It's easy to overlook this space since you probably have never looked in the attic, let alone been up in the attic.
You should, however, see if the attic has enough insulation. The right amount of insulation will ensure your home remains cooler during the hot-weather months.
Contact a professional to assess the insulation and add the right insulation material if necessary.
Assess Your Windows
If you want to learn how to survive the heat, one way is to ensure your windows are up to the challenge. How old are your windows? Consider replacing them if they're at or near the end of their lifecycle.
Check out the condition of your windows. Some problems can be repaired, but other problems mean it's time for replacement windows.
You should upgrade to double-pane or triple-pane windows if you have single-pane windows. Single-pain windows won't afford the level of insulation you need, but one or two panes of glass will offer better energy efficiency.
When you get replacement windows, consider getting inert gas placed between the panes of glass. That'll offer even more energy efficiency so your home stays cooler and your HVAC equipment doesn't have to overwork.
Use Portable Fan
Another way to keep your home cool when it's hot outside is to use portable fans. You won't have to rely on your HVAC unit all the time.
If you have ceiling fans in your home, put them to good use. It'll help keep your home cool so the interior is comfortable for you and yours.
Use Window Coverings
Yet another way to keep your residence cooler is to use your drapes, blinds, shutters, or whatever other coverings you have. Something like thick curtains can help keep the sun's rays from overheating your home.
While covering the windows will keep natural light from getting inside, it will also help to keep your rooms cooler. So, use the window coverings you already have, or invest in some if you don't have them on all your windows.
Keep Interior Doors Open
It's also a great idea to keep the doors inside your house open. Doing so will encourage more airflow throughout your residence.
So, if you're seeking Florida HVAC tips to use your equipment more efficiently, get in the habit of leaving the doors in your home wide open. Your home will be cooler, and your electricity bill will be lower since the HVAC won't be on 24/7.
Beat the Florida Heat
If you live in Florida, you need an HVAC unit. You must maintain it so that it doesn't fail you when you can least afford for that to happen.
Whether you need to maintain your current HVAC unit or replace it altogether, we can help you beat the Florida heat at Ellsworth's Heating & Cooling. We're a reputable HVAC technician serving homeowners in and around Cape Coral, FL.
You can count on us for all your residential HVAC needs. That means we can assist you with service, repair, installation, and replacement. Contact us today for the help you need.
How to Prepare Your HVAC System for Extreme Weather in Punta Gorda, FL
Is the scorching summer heat in Punta Gorda, Florida, putting your HVAC system to the test? With a relentless combination of high temperatures and suffocating humidity, it’s crucial to ensure your cooling system is ready to operate efficiently under extreme weather.
Neglecting proper preparation can lead to unexpected breakdowns, discomfort, and even costly repairs.
Read on for practical tips to prepare your HVAC system for whatever weather comes its way. If you follow these tips, you’ll enjoy a comfortable home year round.
Clean and Maintain Your HVAC System
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your HVAC system running smoothly. Start by cleaning or replacing the air filters. This helps keep air flowing and prevents dust buildup.
Clear the condensate drain line of any debris or blockages. A clogged AC drain line won’t allow your AC to work efficiently. If you ignore it long enough, the entire system could shut down.
Keep the outside unit clear of dirt and yard debris. This includes trimming the grass and shrubs back to allow for ventilation.
You can DIY the cleaning process, but it’s best to schedule professional AC maintenance from your HVAC company. Maintenance usually includes an inspection and a thorough cleaning.
Optimize Your Thermostat Settings
To maximize comfort and energy efficiency, adjust your thermostat settings according to Punta Gorda’s climate. While the area faces extreme weather, it's not that way all year.
Adjust your thermostat when you’re away. Doing so can conserve a surprising amount of energy - turn your thermostat up when no one is home. You could save up to 10% every year on energy bills.
Consider investing in a programmable or smart thermostat that allows you to schedule temperature adjustments automatically.
Take advantage of the “fan” mode to circulate air and improve indoor air quality without cooling.
Avoid drastic temperature changes as they strain the system and increase energy consumption. Your HVAC specialist can help you determine the optimal thermostat settings. Much of it will depend on your HVAC system and how cool you'd like to keep your home.
Improve Airflow and Insulation
Improving airflow and insulation in your home is an easy way to optimize your HVAC system’s performance. There are several things you can do on your own including:
- Remove obstructions around vents and registers
- Seal any gaps or cracks in windows and doors
- Check ductwork for leaks and gaps in the joints
Consider adding insulation to your attic and walls to maintain a consistent indoor temperature. Installing ceiling fans can help circulate cool air and reduce the workload on your HVAC system.
For a comprehensive evaluation of your home’s airflow and insulation, reach out to Ellsworth’s Heating and Cooling. Their experienced technicians can recommend effective solutions tailored to your specific needs.
Schedule HVAC System Maintenance Today
Don’t let the extreme weather in Punta Gorda, FL, catch you off guard. By preparing your HVAC system, you can enjoy comfortable temperatures in your home year-round.
Remember to schedule regular maintenance to keep your system in top shape.
Contact Ellsworth’s Heating and Cooling today. Their team of professionals is ready to provide expert services and address any HVAC concerns you may have.
Emergency Air Conditioning in Fort Myers
Air Conditioning Repair, Service, Maintenance Fort Myers, FL
Are you feeling the heat? As Floridians, we all know it gets hot here and good air conditioning is a must-have year-round and especially during the sweltering summer months. If yours isn’t quite up to the job and needs repairs, replacing, or if it just needs cleaning and maintenance, give us a call. Here at Ellsworth's Heating and Air Conditioning, we’re your local family owned and operated the company for Air Conditioning Repair, Service, and Maintenance in Fort Myers, FL.
Solid Dependability
In business for 47 years now, we firmly believe in treating every single one of our customers honestly and fairly. That’s how we became the most trusted Air Conditioning Repair, Service, and Maintenance in Fort Myers, FL. for our solid dependability and exemplary personal service. So now, 47 years later, we’ve become one of SW Florida’s most respected businesses.
Since 1968
Founded in 1968 by George Ellsworth Sr, our company is not only one of the oldest but also one of the most reliable air conditioning companies in the area. And, now we’re not only Trane comfort specialists but also certified Carrier dealers. In addition, we also carry Daikin, Lennox, and Samsung air conditioning equipment and we service and repair all makes and models.
Save on Utility Bills
Do you want to save on your utility bills? We can help with an air filtration test of your ductwork and your living area, and all you need to do is ask us about this opportunity to save money. And, who doesn't love saving money?
Get Help Fast
So, don’t let an old, poorly maintained, or broken air conditioner ruin your summer or any other season for that matter. Get help fast when you call us. We're your reliable state-registered air conditioning contractor with all of the required state, county, and city licenses, and we're also fully insured. Why not let us help you with living more comfortably in the heat and also saving money? We want to be your go-to Air Conditioning Repair, Service, and Maintenance in Fort Myers, FL. Call us today for more details (866) 281-5199 and don't forget to check out our specials, and financing options, for a new central air conditioning unit.
Duct Tape Won't Fix an A/C in Cape Coral, FL
Air Conditioning Repair, Service, Maintenance Cape Coral, FL
At Ellsworth's Heating and Air Conditioning, we’re proud to be providers of some of the very best Air Conditioning Repair, Service, and Maintenance in Cape Coral, FL. We all know how incredibly hot the temperatures can be in beautiful sunny Florida, not to mention the humidity. But, with properly functioning air conditioning, you can always remain cool and comfortable.
When that sizzling Florida sun beats down on your home or office, your a/c unit has to go from resting comfortably to running a marathon. Not only do your utility bills go up but so do the chances of a potential breakdown. There are a number of reasons for this, including:
~ It’s just not ready for the race
You need to prepare your air conditioner for the heat, including changing your air filter monthly, cleaning the exterior unit, checking your drain line, and/or getting professional air conditioner maintenance. When you choose the latter, we’ll handle the other three tasks for you. Now you're ready for the heat!
~ It’s overheating
Your a/c can overheat and keep tripping your circuit breaker. Resist the temptation to just flip the switch and then forget about it. Circuit breakers are made for protecting both your a/c and other appliances, as well as your home. When it trips continually, then it’s time to fix the issue rather than risking an a/c system breakdown. So, give us a call. We service and repair all a/c makes and models.
~ It’s time to retire
Age can take a toll on your a/c unit at some point, it really needs to be replaced. Remember, the older it gets, the higher the chance of a breakdown. When this happens, what should you do? Just give us a call. We’re not only your local Trane comfort specialists and factory authorized Carrier dealer but we carry Daikin, Lennox, and Samsung, as well. And we’re also certified by FPL for doing major duct repair.
So, don’t let an air conditioning problems derail your day. Get back on-track by calling us. We're not only family-owned and operated but also a state-registered air conditioning contractor that holds all state, county, and city licenses, and is fully insured. Let us help you to save money and live more comfortably. Call us today for more details (866) 281-5199 and don't forget to check out our specials, and financing options, for a new central air conditioning unit.
Top Notch Air Conditioning Repair Services Punta Gorda
Air Conditioning Repair, Service, Maintenance Punta Gorda, FL
Ellsworth's Air Conditioning Repair Services
If you have installed an a/c in your home, you would need air conditioning repair service sooner than later. More so now! Summer is here and so is your need for air conditioning. If you are looking to ensure that the cooling system for your home or building runs as it should, you have come to the right place.
At Ellsworth’s, we promise you with the best air conditioning repair you can find in Southwest Florida! As a family-owned business, we started with a station wagon and a single driving force: his will to treat his customers with fairness and honesty. These two virtues are at the base of our company and its services.
We have been providing our heating and air conditioning repair services to meet your expectations for 48 years since it was founded in 1968 in the Lee County, making us the oldest company offering Air conditioning and heating repair services in the tri-county region.
Maintenance Punta Gorda, FL
At Ellsworth Heating & Cooling Repair and Service, we can repair all makes and models. Our technicians are factory trained, specializing in residential and commercial air conditioning repairs, mobile home, duct sealing, and duct designing to name a few. We are here to provide you with free estimates, a 24-hour emergency service, radio-dispatched trucks and daily hours of 7 a.m to 7 p.m.
Our services include everything from maintenance to replacement services, and you can give us a call anytime. Our 40-year-old business has been built on assessing our customer’s actual needs, a reliable service at an affordable price.
Ellsworth heating and cooling is a state-registered air conditioning contractor. Our licenses for the state, county, and city are insured for your protection. Our Mastic duct repair service is certified by Florida Power and Light.
Want to save some money?
Preventive maintenance is a great way to ensure that you don't spend more on your repair bills. We can conduct an air filtration test of your living area and ductwork and help you deal with your utility bills. Call us today for more details (866) 281-5199 and don't forget to check out our specials, and financing options, for a new central air conditioning unit.