Experts like ProSolutions will tell you that it’s best to have at least two-thirds of your vents left open for best operation of your AC system. It is far harder to cool down a house versus keeping it at a constant temperature.
As long as a ductless air conditioner is properly installed and adequately maintained, it will last approximately 10 to 15 years or more. Thus, ductless mini split ACs have about the same lifespan as traditional forced air systems.
Here are a few ways to ensure your mini split AC system lasts as long as possible.
Typically, a mini split AC does not use a lot of electricity. Ductless air conditioners can use anywhere from 0.30 to 4+ kWh (kiloWatt-hours) of power per hour. That said, the amount of electricity your ductless mini split air conditioner will use depends on several factors, including:
AC parts break down over time. However, an improperly maintained central air conditioning system will put pressure on every part of that system. A dirty filter that hasn’t been replaced, fans that are not cleaned, leaking refrigerant, exposed wires in the electrical box, ice build up on coils. These put pressure on the capacitors, sensors that track heat levels and thermostat readings and generally weaken the unit so it does not run efficiently and any part can break down.
Ductless air conditioners offer reliable and efficient cooling – so installing a mini split AC is worth it for many Edmonton homeowners. That said, a ductless mini split air conditioner is not worth it for every home.
Here are some situations in which a ductless air conditioner is worth it:
Cleaning a condensing unit can be an important part of maintaining the longevity of your condensing unit. Should you use a pressure washer or liquid cleaner though? The short answer is NO! Do not use a power washer. You may damage fins or other parts of the condensing unit. Use a garden hose and spray into the coil to remove all the dust and other stuff that gets onto the coil over the season. As for liquid cleaners, most of them contain corrosive agents and you don’t want to damage the coil or any other parts of the unit with which it comes in contact.
If you’re thinking about cleaning a condensing unit, a certified AC repair contractor will have specialized cleaners in cases where the coil needs to be thoroughly cleaned.
Yes—especially if you want to reduce your energy bills, lower your carbon footprint, and get the most comfort from your system. Higher-efficiency ACs can also help increase the value of your home and extend the life of your system with fewer breakdowns.
Pro Tip: SEER2 is now becoming the new standard across Canada. Many newer AC models are already listed using only SEER2 rating—so if you’re comparing older and newer systems, make sure you’re looking at the same standard!
We recommend a smart thermostat when your home comfort system has both an AC and Furnace unit. In addition to improved comfort settings, many smart thermostats are able to alert you of troubles like “Too Hot” or “Too Cold” warnings – some can even report directly to your phone!
If it’s battery-operated, check the batteries and replace them as necessary. Otherwise, if you have a problem, call one of our experts at ProSolutions.
ProSolutions Inc. suggests Ameristar Air Conditioning brand for a cost-effective and energy-efficient solution.
Does the size of AC unit effect performance? Yes!
If the unit is too large, the space gets too cool and humidity is not removed. You’ll feel cold and clammy. Plus the frequent cycling can wear out your AC Unit faster since the hardest load on your AC is when you start it up. You can also freeze up the AC unit if the air flow is too low and the unit can not be kept from freezing up. Freezing up of a central AC system is a recipe for disaster on the HVAC equipment.
Book your home estimate today, and our Pros can recommend the best size AC for your home and needs.
All AC Unit warranty installations are backed by a minimum 5 year comprehensive parts warranty & most higher efficient models boast 10 years out of the box. Ask us about extended labour warranty on qualifying AC units!
Yes, adding AC will increase home value. This is especially true for homes in Edmonton. Summers is Alberta can get extremely hot, therefore, many homebuyers prefer houses that have central air conditioning installed.
If your home does not currently have air conditioning but you are considering installing AC, it is highly recommended. In fact, some estimates suggest that installing an AC unit can add up to 12% to the value of your home. Especially if you opt for a high-efficiency air conditioning unit. In addition to increasing home value, central AC adds to your home’s comfort, resulting in a healthy and happy environment.
Reach out to book your FREE home AC installation quote for a personalized assessment of your home’s needs.
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures how efficiently an air conditioner operates over a typical cooling season. It’s calculated by dividing the total cooling output (in BTUs) by the total electrical energy input (in watt-hours). A higher SEER rating indicates greater efficiency, leading to lower utility bills.
SEER2 is the updated version of this rating system. It uses more rigorous testing procedures that better reflect real-world conditions, like how your AC actually performs with ductwork and airflow resistance in a typical Edmonton home. Because of this, SEER2 ratings are slightly lower than SEER, even though the equipment performance hasn’t changed. For example, a unit with a 15.2 SEER2 rating is roughly equivalent to a 16 SEER under the old scale.
In Alberta, where summers can get hot and dry, a SEER2 rating of 14.3 or higher is generally recommended for energy efficiency and comfort. Some systems go as high as 18+ SEER2. While higher-rated systems cost more upfront, they offer better long-term savings.
