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Thinking about Switching from a Ducted HVAC System to Ductless Mini Splits
Posted On: August 11, 2023
I have been looking into purchasing a heat pump for the last few months.
I love DIY, but for this project, I had always assumed I would have an HVAC company do the installation.
My initial impression was that I would replace my existing AC/gas furnace with a Mitsubishi Hyper Heat ducted system.
Recently, I've been reconsidering a ducted system and have been thinking about going entirely ductless with a DIY install.
With the money saved, I could use it for other projects.
I would still use Mitsubishi Hyper Heat units and would implement a combination of ductless wall mounts and ceiling cassettes where practical.
I know Mitsubishi isn't generally considered a DIY install due to the vacuuming required and the loss of warranty, but I feel comfortable enough to do it.
I wanted to see if I could get some general ideas/input, as I'm still at the point where I have a lot of questions.
I feel a bit overwhelmed with all of the options, and any suggestions or advice would be greatly appreciated.
I know that I could save some money by going with cheaper units, but I've been very drawn to the Mitsubishi systems.
I am in southern New Jersey (Climate Zone 4A) and have a 2 story house built in 1984.
It's only about 2200 square feet.
All of the insulation is original, and it seems like it's pretty leaky/drafty.
The upstairs is always so hot, and we end up setting the AC to 68 at night, so that it's somewhat bearable to sleep.
I definitely want to have air sealing done along with blown-in cellulose to make it more comfortable.
What attracted me to using ductless mini splits is that we could target specific rooms depending on use.
When we're downstairs, we pretty much only use the kitchen and family room.
I have Mitsubishi dealers in my area, but I haven't actually had anyone out yet.
I feel kind of guilty wasting their time, if I'm not likely to use them for the installation.
I am on a concrete slab with no basement, so I envision the install costs will be extremely high.
If I do the work, I know I can route the linesets through the ceiling/attic and make it look very clean.
The electrical is no issue.
It will be a lot of work, but I don't mind putting in the effort.
My issue is that I'm not quite sure at the moment on the planning and design (specifically placement, number of units, and sizing).
I was thinking that maybe I could hire some type of energy/HVAC consultant to figure this out, rather than an HVAC installer.
Any guidance in this area would be a huge help.
I would like to use single-zone units as much as possible for efficiency reasons and redundancy, but with 3 rooms upstairs and 6 downstairs, I will probably have to use a multi-split for a few them.
I was thinking that maybe this would be a good idea for the rooms that are rarely used.
Another reason for going ductless is that I have no idea if my existing ducts are appropriately sized for a modern heat pump.
Since I have no basement, the main trunk runs through a soffit in the living room of my house.
All of the ductwork is in the ceilings, and one room has a flex duct running through my garage attic.
The accessibility is very poor and would require extensive drywall removal.
I also have a two room addition in the back, and the HVAC has never been great in those rooms.
My only hesitation is that when reading and watching YouTube, it seems that HVAC tradespeople and those in the building science/green industry are obsessed with ducted systems.
They spend a lot of time on the ventilation aspect, and many of the designs include an ERV/HRV.
I watch Matt Risinger's channel, and he always has these elaborate systems that seem somewhat unnecessary for most people.
On the HVAC installer side, I constantly hear them saying how you'll humidity issues and that nothing beats a "properly" ducted system.
Most of the central systems seem poorly designed, and if possible, I wouldn't mind ripping out my air handler to free up space in my small laundry room.
I know this post was long, and I apologize.
Any advice, suggestions, or input are greatly appreciated!.
TL;DR - I currently have a ducted AC/natural gas system.
I had planned to replace this with a ducted Mitsubishi Hyper Heat air handler.
I'm now considering going fully ductless to give me better individual control and make my upstairs more tolerable.
I would do all the work myself to save money.
My preference is to use mostly single-zone units for efficiency and redundancy purposes, but I probably would use a multi-split for lesser used zones (to reduce the number of condensers outside).
I do plan to air seal and replace the insulation in the second floor attic, so that my house is tighter.
I'm unsure if I would be making a mistake as most of the building science and HVAC people are obsessed with ductwork (ie.
you need clean air and good ventilation, you'll have humidity issues, nothing beats a ducted system, etc.
).
Question from user cai24 at heatpumps at reddit.
Answer:
It will take a long time before you recoup costs necessary to have an installation that you will be satisfied with.
Answer from user Sweatycamel at heatpumps at reddit.
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See What Our Customers Are Saying:
Jan 4, 2023
Great Team! Furnace broke in the weekend, Bob visited same day and Greg installed new one on Monday. Team was professional, respectful and knowledgeable. Installation went very well, Greg found solutions to challenges, like hiding new conduits in the ceiling. Looks nice and new furnace is working great. Five Stars.
Jan 4, 2023
I used Twintech to install a new furnace for my home. Bob was terrific in explaining the sizing options and why the 2 stage furnace was the best option for me. Greg did a great job installing, clean and on time. Finished work looks great but the best part is how it works. The 2 stage heating is so much more comfortable. I run the fan continuously to keep the indoor air clean. Great investment! Would highly recommendTwintech!
Jan 4, 2023
Im going to start this by saying Im a very particular customer. My background is in mathematics and mechanical engineering so I have an eye for detail and a respect for technical knowledge.
Greg had already done an AC inspection and replaced a water heater tank and there was no question in my mind who to deal with replacing my rickety old furnace after it got pooched.
Bob dropped in ahead of time and clearly (and knowledgeably) outlined all technical, price and operational options.
Greg showed up on time, on the agreed date and did a fantastic job. (The OLD furnace was a house of horrors and was installed in a keystone cops sort of way- careless.)
The work Greg did was HIGHLY PROFESSIONAL and FAR MORE FUNCTIONAL than what I had.
Im also a musician with many instruments so maintaining predictable humidity/temperature is extremely important to me. Greg recognized this as did Bob. You NEVER feel like youre being brushed off.
In summary, if youre looking for PROFESSIONAL, QUALITY results by an EXPERIENCED, THOUGHTFUL team
(that also happen to be FRIENDLY and ATTENTIVE ) then youve come to the right page!!
Jan 4, 2023
Once again Twin Tech came through and fixed my furnace. A young man by the name of Mitch came by tonight and he was so nice explained everything he was quick he was clean he turned off the lights even when he left the furnace room its just above and beyond Twin Tech always delivers and I just found out about them last year and I will use no one else but thanks again Mitch you are fantastic
Jan 4, 2023
I had a problem with the Furnace (Armstrong ultra V) and Greg diagnosed it on the phone. Even told me what the issue was and I was able to fix it. This level of service from a Business that is almost unknown today.
If you require service, reach out to Greg. I will definitely use them in the future!
Jan 4, 2023
We have been shopping for a heat pump for our home. We had 3 reps come in and make recommendations and provide a quote. Of the 3, Bob was so clearly so much more qualified, thorough and informed than the other two that the decision was a no brainer. As soon as we get our audit results Twintech will be installing our heat pump.
Jan 4, 2023
knowledgeable sales person, did not try to up-sell unneeded features,
and was easily contacted to ensure customer satisfaction.
Installation was expertly done by friendly guys, everything explained for use of the products. Old products were removed and returned to rental company as part of the service. Follow up call was received to check all was well. This is my second time using this company as I was fully satisfied with my previous air conditioning unit installation
Jan 4, 2023
Twintech recently installed a new furnace for me. Bob did a great job assessing what I had and needed. All details well explained including the importance of proper sizing of furnace and the value of multi stage heating and the variable speed blower. As a nurse, indoor air quality is a high priority so the variable speed motor running continuous is so good. 24/7 air cleaning. Greg did a great job on install, attention to detail so appreciated. Already notice such an improved comfort and heat. Thank you Twintech! You come as advertised. I will recommend to anyone in need of heating or cooling!
Jan 4, 2023
We received various quotes from 4 different companies and right away, the prompt and thorough communication from Bob from TwinTech stood out. He introduced himself, sent sample sites and information, and always confirmed any agreed to dates and times.
Bob was friendly and extremely knowledgeable about the topic of HVAC and it was clear he was passionate about his profession. He approached the job as if he was installing in his own home.
Prior to the new furnace & A/C installation, our old units were loud and inefficient - having several rooms feeling too cold in the winter and too hot in the summer. After installing the recommended units, all rooms stay at a consistent temperature- even the finished basement.
I highly recommend the TwinTech team - just an outstanding job at a reasonable price point.
Jan 4, 2023
The experience with Twintech was great from the start. Bob the sales manager was friendly and professional and did not use any pressure tactics. He was very knowledgeable.
The installation was completed by the twin owners in about 6-7 hours. Clean quiet easy going didn't mind when I poked my head in to see progress. Highly recommend
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