Are you looking for the best heating and cooling installation in Melbourne?

Heating and cooling is a critical part of your home’s comfort solution, ensuring you stay comfortable and safe throughout the year.

Finding the right heating and cooling system can be quite challenging at first, given that there are many choices available; it can often be overwhelming!

However, if the option of being able to independently control the temperature in individual rooms is an attractive option to you, we suggest reading on.

This week, we take a close look at a ductless air conditioning solution designed for multiple rooms, often referred to as a mini split system.

What do I need to know about mini splits?

You’re likely familiar with wall-mounted air conditioning units, even if you’re not sure of the exact terminology.

Split systems, like the name suggests, contain two parts. The first is the indoor unit, mounted on a wall, usually close to the ceiling. The split system is a common alternative to a ducted system (where vents can be placed in the walls, floor, or ceiling of a home.)

The second component is the outdoor compressor unit.

More specifically, a mini split system is a heating and cooling solution that is designed specifically for small areas, and eliminates the need for ducts.

Are mini splits good for heating?

Yes – in fact mini split systems are good for both heating and cooling your home. These economic systems keep you warm during winter and cool during summer.

Is a mini split better than central air?

If you’re thinking about energy costs and efficiency, you may be able to save more on ductless air conditioning. This is because you are only heating (or cooling) certain parts of your home, as needed, rather than the whole household.

Mini split systems can drastically lower your bills than central air conditioning and are more efficient than older air conditioning systems.
However there’s no straight answer here for which one is ‘better’ – it all depends on your house’s layout, size, and how you use each room in your home.

The best way to determine which system is best suited for your home? Consult an air con installation expert in Melbourne.

Is a mini split system worth it?

As most Melbourne homeowners realise, there’s an advantage to having a single system with the capability to both heat and cool your home, delivering year-round comfort in all seasons.

And a mini split system can certainly deliver!

However, having all the right information and understanding the benefits of this particular ductless air conditioning system can help you make the right decision in order to meet your heating and cooling needs.

1. Controlled room temperature

Mini split ductless systems can work in different rooms and areas in your home, enabling you to control the temperature in each part of your home.

You can have multiple units at home, particularly in living spaces like the family room, bedrooms, playroom, and study.

This saves you on energy costs as you can turn on one unit – say, in the lounge room where the family has gathered for the evening – and you can turn off the other units that are not in use – like in the study, where the workday is done.

2. Energy-efficient heating and cooling system

Heating and cooling systems in Australia represent an average of 40% of a household’s energy consumption.

A ductless system can save you at least 30% on heating and cooling costs as it has more advanced technology than some other HVAC systems. Ductless mini splits usually convert high-voltage electricity into DC voltage that consumes little energy.

Most mini split air conditioning has duct seals, protecting up to 30% of the air from escaping through leaks, holes, and loose connections.

3. Less work

Split systems are generally quite easy to install.

The indoor unit usually only requires small holes to be drilled on the wall, making it less vulnerable to leakage, damage, and security issues.

Having said this however, the refrigerant line and electrical wires needed to connect the inside and outside unit, and to power the system, must only be installed by a professional.

4. Flexibility

One good thing about mini split systems is that you can use them in virtually any room of the home, either as standalone units or in conjunction with existing ducted air conditioning.

For example, if you decide to renovate by adding a second storey to your home, your ground floor’s existing ducted system may not be able to head upstairs due to ceiling space limits.

How do you use a mini split efficiently?

Tip #1: Set your room temperature

Mini split heating and cooling systems are usually installed near the ceiling, where the air is warmer (heat rises, after all!)

As such, the temperature might be a little different up there. All of our bodies are different, too, so instead of focusing just on the number, set it wherever it delivers the cooling or heating you need to feel comfortable.

However if you are after a guide, to maximise comfort and efficiency, we recommend:

• 18ºC during winter (while the unit is heating)
• 22-24ºC during summer (while the unit is cooling)

If you’re sitting far from those guides, we suggest adjusting your temperature by just one degree. You likely won’t feel the difference, but it can have a tremendous impact on your energy usage!

Tip #2: Set the fan to auto

Once you’ve set the right room temperature, the best thing to do is to keep your fan in auto mode. This not only maintains a pleasant and even temperature, but also means less wear and tear, as your unit is not constantly being strained through manual shut off and start ups.

Tip #3: Schedule yearly maintenance

Proper maintenance of your mini split system not only ensures your unit runs as it should, but also makes it run more efficiently, saving you on energy costs!

Some of the ways on how to maintain your mini split heating and cooling system are by:

• Cleaning air filters regularly (particularly at the start of the hot or cold seasons!)
• Keeping your unit free from dirt and debris
• Engage a heating and cooling expert for regular maintenance

Thinking about a ductless heating and cooling system for your home?

Call Alpha Air today!

Comfort and energy efficiency are two of the most important things to consider when it comes to both ducted air conditioning and split systems in Melbourne.

If you’re still unsure which system is best suited for your home and lifestyle, get in touch with our heating and cooling experts.

Our team of experienced professionals know what to consider when it comes to finding your perfect home comfort solution, helping you to navigate through your choices and make the right decision for your home and family.

To find out more about our high efficiency systems, or for any aspect of your home’s heating and cooling needs, contact us today. Call Alpha Air on 1300 854 525 or fill in this enquiry form and we will come back to you soon!