Floor-Mounted Ductless Indoor Air Handlers
The way a ductless mini-split system works is like that of a conventional heating and cooling unit. The only difference is that the former does not use the complexities of ductwork. The ductless mini-split system has an indoor and outdoor unit, as well as a refrigerant line that links the two units. The role of the indoor unit is to blow cold or warm air into the living space. However, the outdoor unit is where the refrigerant releases or absorbs the heat from the air. The outdoor unit is also called the compressor.
Mini-split systems generally come in two types – the single zone and the multi-zone system. As the term suggests, the single zone unit has one indoor and one outdoor unit. It is ideal for cooling or heating a single room or zone. On the other hand, the multi-zone system has one outdoor unit (compressor) that can connect to two to eight indoor units. Hence, it can cool or heat several rooms in a house or building. There are various types of ductless indoor air handlers.
If you feel like the ductless mini-split system is for you, then you must first understand and figure out the specific type of ductless system you want. This article will help you learn about the different varieties of ductless systems. However, we will focus more on the floor-mounted ductless mini-split system.
Types Of Mini-Split HVAC Systems
Contents
- 1 Types Of Mini-Split HVAC Systems
- 1.1 Vertical Air Handler
- 1.2 DIY
- 1.3 Ceiling Cassette
- 1.4 Concealed Duct
- 1.5 Ceiling Suspended
- 1.6 Wall-Mounted
- 1.7 Floor-Mounted
- 1.8 Floor-Mounted Ductless Mini-Split Features
- 1.9 1 – Stylish
- 1.10 2 – Zone Comfort
- 1.11 3 – Healthier Air
- 1.12 4 – Easy Access of Filters
- 1.13 5 – Inverter Technology
- 1.14 6 – Hot-Start Technology
- 1.15 7 – Quiet Operation
- 1.16 8 – Smart Remote Controller
- 1.17 9 – Less Mess Installation
- 2 Floor-Mounted Ductless Mini-Split Installation Guide
- 3 When To Choose A Floor-Mounted Ductless Unit
- 4 Call R.F. Ohl To Learn More About Ductless Heating & Cooling Systems
There are several types of mini-split systems. They include:
Vertical Air Handler
The vertical air handler functions like a central HVAC system, wherein it will connect to existing ductwork. The difference though, is that it is cost-effective and energy-efficient.
DIY
A do-it-yourself type of mini-split is a wall-mounted system with single zone coverage. The term implies that you can purchase it with a pre-charged line set so that you can perform the installation on your own. There’s no need for special equipment or tools to set up the equipment successfully. There also are DIY mini-splits installation kits that feature built-in WiFi. It is the perfect option for those who live in small living spaces and homes and people who don’t like to spend money on professional installation.
The most notable downside of a DIY mini-split installation is that manufacturers don’t usually honor a warranty. Manufacturers honor warranties that are installed by a licensed and professional HVAC contractor. Meanwhile, extended warranties are common for those who hire a contractor who happens to be an authorized dealer for the brand.
Ceiling Cassette
There’s a ductless mini-split system called the “ceiling cassette”. It has an indoor air handler and an outdoor unit. The indoor unit is mounted on the ceiling, which means it does not take up that much space in your home. It is a feasible option if you’re looking for something that won’t disrupt or interfere with your existing décor. It is also a practical solution in terms of even distribution of cold or heated air as it blows in four directions.
Concealed Duct
This mini split variety is like the ceiling cassette in a way that you can conceal it in the ceiling. However, the difference is that this one isn’t a ductless type. You mount it on the ceiling so that it’ll be easier to connect it to the ductwork. It works by releasing cold or warm air through your existing air vents. It’s a versatile option because you can connect it to the ducts to cover several rooms.
Ceiling Suspended
A ceiling-suspended mini-split is also mounted to the ceiling. It’s the option that makes the most sense if you have limited wall space. The installation of the mini-split is discreet, which is why it is preferred by property owners who insist on retaining the aesthetic value of their interior space.
Wall-Mounted
The wall-mounted mini-split system is the most popular variety and happens to be the most affordable of all the mini-splits out there. The indoor unit is installed on the wall and works by pumping out air into the room. The higher the unit is mounted, the longer it takes for the equipment to condition the air inside a room or zone. The advantage is that it results in an even distribution of cold or heated air.
The wall-mounted mini-split system applies to any room. However, some building designs like conservatories with no accommodation for wall fixtures are not ideal for a system with a design for wall mounting. The good news is that wall-mounted mini-splits are available in different aesthetics, including those with a low-profile aesthetic. You can even choose something with a discreet design where the indoor unit is hidden in paintings or picture frames.
Floor-Mounted
A floor-mounted mini-split system is installed at the bottom of the wall near the floor. Because the unit is close to the occupants in a room, it means that the benefits are typically felt quicker when compared to a wall-mounted split system. It is the best available option for congested and tight living spaces, especially those with limited wall space. It is also a sensible choice for rooms made from fragile materials. Its discreet design means that it has minimal impact on your living area’s aesthetics.
The most notable downside of a floor-mounted system is its installation in a fully furnished space. If you have a lot of clutter, including appliances and furniture in a room, you might find it challenging to install this type of indoor unit. The obstructions to the indoor unit can also result in inefficiency.
Floor-Mounted Ductless Mini-Split Features
Floor-mounted mini splits offer efficiency, discreet styling, and advanced features for you to achieve the maximum comfort you desire from a new HVAC system. Below, we discuss the features of a floor-mounted mini-split system:
1 – Stylish
Even though a floor-mounted unit is known for providing optimum comfort, you must acknowledge that it is also stylish. You can look at it from any angle and you don’t worry about it affecting the aesthetics of a room. The modern and minimalist design means you can retain the theme of your room or living space.
2 – Zone Comfort
The floor-mounted ductless unit allows you to control each zone or room in the house, depending on your specific needs for heating and cooling. It maintains the temperature you need while preventing the likelihood of uncomfortable temperature swings. For instance, you may enjoy a cooler temperature in your bedroom, while other people in the house prefer a warmer environment in the kitchen or living room.
3 – Healthier Air
HVAC systems come equipped with air filters that are designed to deodorize and purify the air inside the house. The beauty of modern ductless systems is that they are equipped with advanced filtration systems that effectively reduce the presence of contaminants in the air, including dirt, dust, viruses, and allergens. Therefore, the installation of a floor-mounted system brings cleaner and healthier air for everyone.
4 – Easy Access of Filters
You’ll have access to the air filters in a floor-mounted system at the front panels. Easy access allows for DIY cleaning and replacement. Most indoor units have washable filters in them, so you can conveniently remove them from the panel to clean them. Unlike conventional HVAC systems, you no longer need to buy new filters a few times each year.
5 – Inverter Technology
The reason why traditional ducted HVAC systems are so inefficient is that they turn on or off completely when not in use. In contrast, a floor-mounted ductless unit uses inverter technology which allows the equipment to measure the room conditions. Once it gets the measurement it needs, it will adjust the fan and compressor settings to achieve a consistent and comfortable indoor environment. The result is a much more efficient system that uses energy in a smart way.
6 – Hot-Start Technology
Most floor-mounted ductless units these days carry with them a hot-start technology and multi-vane airflow feature. You probably have experienced a heating system that blows cold air when you need it to produce heat during a cold night. The idea behind hot-start technology is to pre-heat the coil so that you instantly get hot air once you turn the equipment on.
7 – Quiet Operation
The indoor unit and condenser of a floor-mounted ductless system produce minimal sound. Some manufacturers even go the extra mile of adding a whisper mode to their products, which can operate at a mere 21 dB. It’s as loud as a child’s whisper.
8 – Smart Remote Controller
A modern floor-mounted system comes with a remote control for the user to manage everything in the most convenient way. It controls the airflow power, vane direction, as well as fan speed. There are also other advanced functions like creating schedules and programs. Also, some systems can integrate with smartphones and mobile devices via wireless technology.
9 – Less Mess Installation
One of the most important conveniences of a single-zone mini-split floor-mounted unit is that it’ll only take a few hours to set up. It also does not create a ton of mess. The HVAC contractor will only need to make a three-inch hole through the wall to make way for the refrigerant line that connects the condenser to the indoor unit.
Floor-Mounted Ductless Mini-Split Installation Guide
Below are installation tips for floor-mounted ductless units:
- Be sure that the indoor unit is placed at least six inches above the floor.
- Don’t install the indoor unit in an area that gets direct sunlight or any other heat source. The sun’s heat affects the equipment’s accuracy in reading the room temperature. You may end up with a unit that’s blowing insufficient air. Hence, set up the indoor unit in an area that’s devoid of direct sunlight.
- Make sure that the indoor unit isn’t situated near a microwave oven, TV, or an appliance that produces electromagnetic interference. The interference might disrupt the communication between the equipment and the remote control.
- Avoid installing the indoor unit behind furniture. Doing so will block the airflow and reduce the performance of the system. You want your new system to efficiently heat or cool the room, and the only way to do this is making sure there’s unobstructed airflow. Talk to an HVAC contractor for best results.
When To Choose A Floor-Mounted Ductless Unit
A floor-mounted unit is ideal for an attic bedroom. Since the space is cramped and, usually, has slanted ceilings, it means that a ceiling or wall-mounted unit is an impractical solution. The floor-mounted unit is installed at the bottom part of the wall, so it is ideally designed for an attic bedroom.
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Conclusion
Call your local HVAC company to help you find the best floor-mounted system to address your needs at home. Look for someone who has experience in the installation of mini-split systems. You want your investment in a new system to be a definite success, and it all starts with choosing the right HVAC company that can determine the best solution to meet your needs.
Call R.F. Ohl To Learn More About Ductless Heating & Cooling Systems
If you want to discover what a ductless HVAC system can do for you, call R.F. Ohl. Our NATE-certified technicians will help you determine the type of HVAC system that works best for your needs.
R.F. Ohl is one of the region’s leading full-service HVAC companies. We offer a wide range of HVAC services, from installations and tune-ups to repairs and consultations. We can help you find different approaches and solutions to ensure that our services meet your requirements and budget. Call us today for a free, in-home estimate.
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