The P. Gagnon & Son Blog

Ductless Air Conditioning 101

Ductless A/C

Posted: March 24, 2017

If you’re dreading hauling those heavy window air conditioners up from the basement this spring, don’t worry – there’s a better way to cool your Maine home when the warm days and nights arrive: a ductless system.

We specialize in these high efficiency wonders – and for good reason. If you’re not familiar with this cooling option for your home, here are a few basics about it:

  • A ductless system has indoor and outdoor components: the indoor unit is called an air handler; the outdoor unit is either a condenser (for cooling-only systems) or a heat pump (if the system cools and heats). One condenser can operate as many as four air handlers.
  • The key advantage of a ductless system is apparent in its name. Because it doesn’t
    need ducts,
    • It can be installed quickly and at a lower cost than a central system
    • Air handlers can be put in hard-to-cool areas anywhere in your house – even in rooms with no windows
    • You will have better air quality, since duct systems are breeding grounds for mold and other harmful microorganisms
    • You’ll have higher operating efficiency, since duct systems often lose cooled air due to leaks in the system

Some other advantages of ductless systems include:

  • Flexibility – Air handlers are available in several sizes, and you can take advantage of “zone cooling” by controlling each air handler via its own thermostat.
  • Efficiency – Ductless systems usually operate in the 18-20 SEER range – much higher than the 14-15 ratings of room air conditioners.
  • Quiet – Because the condenser in a ductless system is outside rather than in the air handler, you’ll say goodbye to loud window AC noises.
  • A better view – You’ll get your window view back – all that’s needed to install a ductless system is a 3-inch wall hole i to connect the air handler to the condenser.

Spring is here – and that’s the perfect time for an AC upgrade! Contact us today to get a FREE estimate on a high efficiency ductless or central air conditioner for your Maine home!