Monday, January 27, 2020

What You Need To Know About Ductless Indoor Air Handlers: Ceiling Cassettes

image of a ceiling cassette for a ductless hvac system

Homeowners who are looking for the perfect air conditioning system can choose from several options that will match their needs and preferences. By far, the most popular options are window air conditioners, central AC units, and ductless mini-split air conditioners. There are, of course, certain considerations you might want to factor in, such as aesthetic value. Let’s admit it, we want a home that is uncluttered and organized, which is why you might want to consider a type of ductless air conditioner, which is the ceiling cassette ductless type.

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Why You Want A Ceiling Cassette A/C

A ceiling cassette is one of the types of ductless mini-split systems. In this system, the indoor air handler is not installed on a wall or floor. Instead, it is installed in the ceiling. The rest of the components are hidden away behind the ceiling. Conditioned air is released through a small discharge grille. The grille is nearly invisible, which makes the ceiling cassette type the perfect option for every type of room since it does not take up a lot of space.

With a ceiling cassette, cool air is distributed from up to four sides of the cassette unit. However, the outdoor/compressor unit of the system is installed outside the home, in the same manner as other types of mini-splits. The ceiling cassette type is considered more powerful compared to the wall-mounted type. This is why it is popularly used in office and commercial environments.

Ceiling Cassette Features

Several features are unique to ceiling cassette units. These include:

 

Quiet Design

No one wants a noisy air conditioner, which makes ceiling cassettes the perfect choice. These units come with large fans, which allow a higher volume of airflow to be distributed using a slower speed. This helps reduce noise levels to a minimum. In fact, noise from ceiling cassettes has been measured at a mere 38 dBA – just slightly louder than your whisper.

Comfort Control

The return air handlers in ceiling cassettes have return air sensors. The sensors are in place to keep track of indoor air temperatures so that the unit can automatically adjust its settings when necessary. As such, you can expect your ceiling cassette unit to keep the temperatures indoors consistent and even. Its vents can also be adjusted to direct airflow where it is required.

image of woman enjoying comfort of ductless hvac system

Enhanced Indoor Air Quality

Ceiling cassette air filters are very accessible, which makes them easy to clean. Each month, open the unit, remove the air filter, wash it, then put it back. This allows you to keep your air filters clean and fresh. This, in turn, keeps it efficient in trapping dirt, pollen, dander, and other air contaminants.

When you can keep your air filters clean effortlessly, you are assured that your A/C unit is working as it should. Plus, you do not have to spend more money on purchasing new filters. Ceiling cassette air filters are also capable of bringing fresh air from outdoors into indoor space. By drawing in fresh outdoor air, it keeps indoor air clean-smelling and more healthful. As such, it can prevent that characteristic dank smell that air-conditioned rooms often emit when only indoor air is being cycled.

The ceiling cassette air filter is also a capable air purifier. If you choose a photocatalytic purification air filter for your unit, you will have an A/C that is capable of eliminating harmful air contaminants and pollutants from your indoor environment. Thus, it improves your indoor air quality.

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Remote Operation

A ceiling cassette A/C offers a number of options to allow you better control of the unit. With A/C remote controllers, you can customize the system based on your needs and preferences. That way, you can keep your environment in a condition that suits you best.

You could also opt for a smart controller – a remotely-controlled feature that allows you to manipulate the settings even when you are away, such as at work or on vacation. This is an excellent feature to have to keep your home environment safe and comfortable. Once you return home, your house is exactly the temperature you want it to be.

Other Features

Although wall-mounted A/Cs have more features than ceiling cassettes, the latter offers more in terms of applications. The features that come with a ceiling cassette will, of course, depend on its make and model. If there is a specific feature you want, ask which brand or series carries it. The most reputable of all ceiling cassettes are made by Mitsubishi. Here are some of the most common features you can expect:

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Four-directional release of conditioned air
  • Modern styles and designs that suit all types of home interiors
  • Uses R410A coolant, an ozone- and environment-friendly compound

 

Pros And Cons Of Ceiling Cassettes

Pros

One of the most striking advantages of ceiling cassette units is that it can distribute conditioned air efficiently throughout an enclosed space. The powerful fans that these units are equipped with ensures that conditioned air is circulated well, especially in a large space. Other types of A/Cs are not as effective.

The cooling capabilities of the ceiling cassette is also quite remarkable. If you have one installed in a large room and want to cool the room next to it, you do not even have to install a separate unit. You can simply distribute cool air to the adjacent room via a branch duct. As such, you can cool two rooms using just one unit.

If you are concerned about having bulky A/Cs in your house, the ceiling cassette is a perfect choice. Since it is installed on the ceiling, it maximizes space on the floor and walls. The indoor air handler is also installed in the ceiling, allowing you to keep indoor living space free.

Also, ceiling cassettes are also no slouches in the energy efficiency department. Their advanced technology has features such as programmable thermostats and variable speed fans. With these added features, you can adjust temperature settings and enjoy a consistent temperature at no added cost.

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Cons

Although ceiling cassettes work well, they also have limitations. They tend to carry higher price tags and take time to install, which is the case if the units will be installed in large buildings. The compressor is mounted outdoors, which means a longer conduit line will be required for the job. For the installation job to be completed correctly and safely, multiple holes have to be drilled.

Ceiling cassettes are not recommended for small spaces. If you prefer this type of air conditioner, you need to have enough ceiling space to accommodate the indoor unit. If the ceiling space is limited, you might have to choose a different HVAC system, which may not be as energy-efficient.

 

How To Choose Your Ceiling Cassette System

One of the best features of a ceiling cassette system is that most of the indoor unit stays hidden in the ceiling. In fact, the only thing that is visible is the small grille. It is the perfect choice if you want a system with excellent coverage but is barely visible.

Ceiling cassettes are popular for office and commercial spaces, but they are also recommended for large rooms. Due to its design and capabilities, a ceiling cassette unit can cool a large space evenly and consistently, allowing you to avoid troublesome hot and cold spots. It also releases conditioned air in all four directions, so cool air is evenly distributed in the entire room.

Ceiling cassettes are also highly recommended as the best alternative for areas where other types of A/C systems cannot be installed. These A/C units are energy-efficient, allow better control, and offer excellent performance so you enjoy optimized personal comfort.

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image of a ceiling cassette installation

 

What You Need To Know About Installing A Ceiling Cassette Unit

The first thing you need to consider before having a ceiling cassette A/C installed is space. Where will you put it? How much space is available in your home? Are there appliances or components of the structural design that could block airflow? The indoor unit usually measures 24″ x 24″ at the minimum. Rafters in most homes are usually spaced 16″ apart, which could make installation a challenge. If this happens to be the obstacle in your case, consider customization.

Placement

The rest of the ceiling cassette components are installed above the ceiling. These components will be hung using rods or cables. To ensure there is enough room, check if you have a minimum of 10-12″ of space in the ceiling.

Ceiling cassettes also have built-in lift pumps. Its primary function is to eliminate the condensate that the cooling cycle produces. A 1″ to 1.25″ PVC pipe connects the lift pump to the exterior unit.

If the room where you intend to install a ceiling cassette did not have air conditioning, consider if it has insulation. If not, have it insulated. This will help prevent the buildup of condensation on the exterior of the unit. Condensation causes water to gather on the floor or drip along the wall, which could lead to damage or problems with mold and mildew.

To prevent erroneous readings by the built-in thermostat, make sure that the indoor unit is not installed in an area that is exposed to higher or lower temperatures. If the indoor unit receives heat from a nearby heat source, for example, it could read the ambient temperature incorrectly and make the improper adjustments to the setting.

Conclusion

When you are ready to have a ceiling cassette A/C installed, call a professional HVAC technician for advice. An experienced HVAC expert will help you assess your needs and provide you with advice in identifying the correct make, model, size, and brand of A/C that will match your comfort needs, preferences, and budget.

 

Check Out One Of Our Ductless Installation Projects

Case Study: Clark Mitsubishi Ductless Installation In Sewaren NJ

Call Skylands Energy Service To Learn More About Ductless HVAC Systems

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A ductless system will provide you with low energy costs, increased home comfort, healthy indoor air quality, and safety. If you are ready to switch to a ductless system or have more questions, call Skylands Energy Service right away. Our NATE-certified technicians will discuss your needs and requirements to help you find the best ductless HVAC system setup for your home. We offer a range of heating and cooling services, including installations, repairs, replacements maintenance, and more. We also provide free in-home estimates. Call Skylands Energy Service today.

Call Now: (908) 707-1776

Contact us now at (908) 707-1776 to find out more!

 

 

The post What You Need To Know About Ductless Indoor Air Handlers: Ceiling Cassettes appeared first on Skylands Energy.



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Monday, January 13, 2020

Ductless Indoor Air Handlers: What You Need To Know

image of family indoors in front of a ductless indoor unit

There are two main components in ductless mini-split systems – the outdoor units and the ductless indoor air handlers. Mini-splits are capable of generating cold and hot air, which makes them suited for areas that experience both cold and hot weather all year round. As long as the mini-split system is the correct size and capacity, you can enjoy optimum comfort regardless of the season.

The indoor air handler must be working properly to ensure that the system remains efficient. If the air handler is functioning as it should, the outdoor unit will continue to operate efficiently and ensure that it maintains the proper indoor temperature in your home.

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What Are Ductless Indoor Air Handlers?

The air handler is the component of a two-part HVAC system that an HVAC contractor installs indoors. This is the component out of which conditioned air is released into the home. The air may be cool or warm, depending on your preferred setting. In central HVAC systems, an HVAC contractor usually installs the indoor air handler in the attic, basement, or dedicated closet. In ductless mini-split systems, however, the heating and cooling technician usually installs the indoor air handler on the ceiling, floor, or wall.

How Does An Air Handler Work?

The refrigerant cools the warm air. The air handler pushes the air to the outdoor unit of the HVAC system. The warm air is then forced through the outdoor unit and released outdoors. The refrigerant is now cooled and is moved back to the indoor air handlers through the copper coils. It is released as cool air in your home by blower fans. For home heating, this process is reversed. The HVAC expert often installs the outdoor unit in the back or side yard close to your home.

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image of a mitsubishi heating and cooling system

What Are The Parts Of An Indoor Air Handler?

Indoor air handlers play a key role in ensuring that your HVAC system works properly. They help regulate temperature and circulate air inside your home. The indoor air handler has several components that help deliver the required home comfort necessary to keep your indoor conditions at their most ideal. These components include:

Evaporator Coil

The evaporator or indoor coil is a major component of the refrigeration cycle of the HVAC system. To produce cool air, the coil eliminates humidity indoors which helps lower room temperature. When air passes over the coil, the air is cooled, then pushed through the indoor unit and released into the rooms. To produce warm air, the coil heats up the air that is passed over it before it is released into indoor spaces.

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Blower Motor

The blower motor physically moves and circulates air indoors. Blower motors typically come in three speeds: single-speed, multi-speed, and variable-speed. Here’s a look at what to expect from these speeds.

  • Single-Speed: A single-speed blower motor has a single fixed speed. The motor simply cycles on and cycles off, depending on how the thermostat or control system is set. This type of motor runs at 100% capacity when operational.
  • Multi-Speed: Multi-speed blower motors offer several speeds to choose from to suit your comfort needs at home. When the thermostat or control system is set at high-demand, the motor will work at 100%. If the thermostat is set at a low-stage setting, the motor will work at a slower speed. However, even with the reduced motor speed, the system can still reduce humidity, remain energy-efficient, and maintain consistent home comfort better than a single-stage system.
  • Variable-Speed: In a variable-speed motor, the fan speed will depend on the specific comfort requirement you have. If your air handler has a variable-speed motor, it can be set to control air circulation precisely. It can also adjust the speed automatically to run at different capacities. As such, it can increase or decrease its rate so that the exact demand for heating or cooling is met. A variable-speed motor provides improved comfort and efficiency, with quiet operation. It runs at a lower cost without compromising comfort.

 

Vibration Isolators

When blowers are running, they produce a vibration, which creates noise. Often, the sound that the fans make can be distracting and annoying to household members. Consequently, HVAC systems have with vibration isolators to reduce the sound. These thick rubber isolators work by dampening the sound of the blowers by absorbing and controlling soundwaves. As a result, it eliminates the vibration, preventing the sound from transferring to the structure of the HVAC system. An HVAC contractor can also insert a flexible section or a mounting bracket between the air handling unit and the mounting bracket to help control the noise.

image of a ductless hvac filtering system

Filter

Most HVAC systems have built-in air filters to trap dirt, dust, pollen, allergens, and other particulates and contaminants. Air filters help maintain indoor air quality and ensure that indoor air is safe to breathe. Air filters are especially helpful in reducing the risks of allergies and respiratory issues among household members who are prone to these problems.

Although window air conditioners also have air filters, these can only manage to trap larger particulates, such as pet fur. Ductless mini-splits and central ACs, on the other hand, have air filters that can trap smaller particles. Some ductless models and brands even have multi-stage filtration features to ensure that you have the cleanest and healthiest air at home.

Thermostat And Controls

HVAC systems have controls that allow you to regulate its settings. This means you can control air temperature, humidity levels, airflow rate, air quality, etc. Some models have a basic control that only turns the system on or off. There are also units that offer more advanced features such as building automation and automatic, centralized control.

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Drain Pipe

When the HVAC system is in the cooling cycle, it produces air that is at a temperature several degrees lower than the natural room temperature. As a result, the surrounding air condenses and turns to liquid. The liquid, or water droplets, form on the cooling coil, fall off and is collected by a drain pan. Water from the drain pan then flows to the component known as the drain line, which takes the water away from the indoor air handler. This line usually connects to the HVAC outdoor unit, where the water is finally disposed of.

Louvers

Louvers or fins are the components through which conditioned air passes before being released into the room. In a ductless HVAC system, the louvers are adjustable. You can change the direction and angle of the warm or cool air, so it directs where it is needed. Vertical louvers direct the flow of the air from left to right while horizontal louvers direct airflow up and down. Louvers may be manually or remotely controlled. They can be fixed in one position or set in rotation mode. When louvers are in rotation mode, the indoor air handler distributes conditioned air evenly throughout the room.

 

Air Handler Accessories

There are actually different accessories that an HVAC technician can add to the indoor air handler to improve its function and optimize its capacity. One of these is the electric heater. It can be installed in the HVAC system’s air handling unit to supplement the heating capability of the condenser. It helps produce warm air by increasing the temperature of the coils. When air passes over these coils, it becomes warm before being distributed to the room.

Another accessory to consider is UV or ultraviolet lighting. An HVAC contractor can add UV light to the air handler to neutralize airborne bacteria and viruses. It works in tandem with the HVAC system’s air filter to purify interior air. You might also want to consider installing an air filter box or a water safety cut-out switch to enhance your HVAC system.

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Repairs and Replacement Of Your Ductless Indoor Air Handler

When your HVAC system is working well, you should not have any issues whatsoever regarding the comfort of your home. However, if you are having problems with the airflow, you might have an issue with a damaged air handler or a faulty blower motor. When and if these issues show up, you need to have these components replaced. Fixing them will only offer a temporary solution. This is especially true if your indoor air handler is an older model.

It is also important that you know the early signs of a faulty HVAC air handler. Watch out for unusual sounds such as rattling or clanging noises, which could point to a damaged blower fan or loose air handler. There are many reasons why an air handler could fail. If it stops functioning correctly, do not hesitate to call your local technician to have it inspected.

 

Maintaining Your Air Handler

The air handler affects the energy efficiency of the HVAC system and your indoor air quality. It is important that you ensure it is working properly. To keep it in top shape, make sure to clean it regularly. Dirty air handlers circulate dirty air that can affect your health. If you fail to clean it regularly, it will also become less efficient. As a result, it will consume more energy than it should.

You should also change or clean the air filters regularly. If possible, consider installing accessories that will help improve the function of your HVAC system. A UV light, for example, will help reduce the population of harmful microorganisms to a very low level. The UV light will also help prevent the growth of mold in the air handler. Have the system undergo a tune-up by a qualified HVAC professional every year.

Check Out One Of Our Ductless Installation Projects

Case Study: Clark Mitsubishi Ductless Installation In Sewaren NJ

Conclusion

If you need to have your air handler inspected or replaced, seek the advice and assistance of a professional HVAC technician. A qualified expert will ensure that your system remains reliable all year round.

Call Skylands Energy Service For All OF Your Home Comfort Needs

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A ductless system will provide you with low energy costs, increased home comfort, healthy indoor air quality, and safety. If you are ready to switch to a ductless system or have more questions, call Skylands Energy Service right away. Our NATE-certified technicians will discuss your needs and requirements to help you find the best ductless HVAC system setup for your home. We offer a range of heating and cooling services, including installations, repairs, replacements maintenance, and more. We also provide free in-home estimates. Call Skylands Energy Service today.

Call Now: (908) 707-1776

Contact us now at (908) 707-1776 to find out more!

 

The post Ductless Indoor Air Handlers: What You Need To Know appeared first on Skylands Energy.



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How to Tell If Your Furnace Is Short-Cycling & What to Do

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