What is a Split System? - Ask the Expert Episode 113

Geothermal components should definitely be installed in some sort of housing. They're not designed to be out in the elements. One of the big advantages with a geothermal system is that there is no environmental wear and tear.

Depending on how the rest of the system is operating, replacing the coil and flushing the lines might be a good option. However, I would point out two things. First, if you are using R-12 refrigerant, it was phased out in 1996. Getting replacement refrigerant will be crazy expensive. Second, the average life of an air conditioner split system is 15 years or so. You're above average right now. With good repairs and solid maintenance you might squeeze a few more years out of it. In terms of a complete split system replacement, any system you buy today is going to run on R-410A. And since you would be getting a new coil in a new system designed for R-410A, I really don't know what they're talking about by saying "it might end up freezing the coil." That doesn't make any sense to me. Tens of millions of units use R-410A without any problems. Plus, R-410A isn't going to get phased out anytime soon, so any refrigerant replacement won't cost an arm and a leg. Basically, I don't see the objections about R-410A making sense. What I would recommend is that you get an estimate on what it would cost to replace your coil and charge your system. Next, get an estimate for replacement. Then shop around online (or just call us!) to try to find the equipment you need at a low cost. As always, if you need advice or help, call us at 800-360-1569.

Good luck on LEED!

For a 450 sq ft room, I would recommend a ductless mini-split system like a MRCOOL Advantage, Gree Livo+, or LG Mega at around 12k BTUs.

An 18k ductless mini-split heat pump would be a good fit for a 750 sq ft addition to a home. If you wanted to install it yourself, you could get a <a href="https://iwae.com/shop/18k-btu-16-seer-mrcool-diy-ductless-heat-pump-split-system-wall-mounted-ha11721.html" rel="nofollow">MRCOOL DIY 18k</a>. However, if you would prefer a professional installation, you could get something like the <a href="https://iwae.com/shop/18k-btu-16-seer-gree-livo-ductless-heat-pump-split-system-wall-mounted-ha13635.html" rel="nofollow">18k Gree Livo+</a>.

You caught him! Dan's not the most comfortable on camera, but he's dedicated to getting you folks the answers!

A split system is basically any cooling or heating system that requires two or more separate units to function. Non-split systems are usually called package units and include central heating and air conditioning package units, window units, and packaged terminal air conditioners (PTACs). Most split systems consist of an outside condenser (big square box) and an inside air handler (tall rectangular box). Mini-split systems are much smaller than conventional split system, easier to install, and are very versatile in terms of location.

Many HVAC professionals can also perform electrical work. However, when they cannot, an electrician is recommended.

They definitely could be. A multi-zone system would definitely be effective for cooling. Depending on your climate zone, they might suffice for heating as well. Mini-splits are great for older homes that were built before central heating and air became common. A multi-zone system will definitely be more cost effective than putting in new ductwork, which you might not even have space to accommodate.

To be honest, I am not really understanding. You could give our tech guys a call at 270-575-9595 x300. It seems like this might be something better explained over the phone than in text.

From what you describe, two separate systems would be our best guess. The Universal cannot use more than one thermostat. However, you could possibly adapt a zoning system to it. It is not compatible with high static pressure duct systems, if that's what you're referring to with the "pvc ductwork". Hope that helps!

We definitely never recommend mixing different refrigerants. Those two refrigerants have different boiling points and pressure requirements, so they would not play well with each other.

Yes, it would be possible to replace a central air system with a multi-zone mini-split. Whether or not that is the best thing to do for your home depends a lot on the details of that home. For those who live in cold climates, furnace heat is often preferable to mini-split heat pumps. Of course, homeowners in warmer regions can do just fine with only heat pump heating. Give us a call at 270-575-9595, and one of our experts can go over your situation with you.

It could be that enough dirt and dust is building up on that exposed line to allow water to accumulate which, in turn, is turning to ice. It could still be working fine. You just might want to get some foam insulation over that bit of pipe.