Category: Blog

Mitsubishi Heat Pump

The ‘Mitsubishi Heat Pump,’ with its advanced technology and functioning, is the perfect heating and cooling system. Its dual functionality in all seasons makes it an efficient and effective substitute for your traditional gas heating systems and fireplaces. This article will discuss all you need to know about the ‘Mitsubishi Heat Pump’ and its contribution to a better environment.

How Do Mitsubishi Heat Pumps Work?

For starters, let us discuss the basic working of the ‘Mitsubishi Heat Pump’ to give you an overview of its efficiency and enhanced functionality.

The heat pump comprises two units: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The outdoor unit is the condenser, and it pulls in the heat energy present in your environment, regardless of how cold it is outside.

The indoor Ductless Mini-Split unit regulates that energy, keeping your house warm. The opposite process occurs in the summer; heat energy is being pushed outside of your home’s surrounding air, making your house cooler. All of the heat transfer occurs via the refrigerant process, commonly used in refrigerators. The gas/fluid moves in pipes and compresses and condenses/evaporates according to the temperature and pressure to give the overall desired effect.

The Benefits of a Mitsubishi Heat Pump:

In the world of home comfort and energy efficiency, Mitsubishi Electric has long been a trusted name, delivering cutting-edge solutions that redefine the way we experience warmth and cooling in our homes. One such innovation that has taken the HVAC industry by storm is the Mitsubishi Heat Pump. From revolutionizing the way we heat and cool our spaces to contributing to a greener planet, these systems offer an array of benefits that go beyond conventional heating and cooling methods.

Energy Efficient

As discussed in the heat pumps working, heat pumps only regulate heat; they don’t create heat. Heat pumps transfer the energy available outside your house to inside your house. This way, no extra heat is produced and released into the environment, contributing to the already growing problem of the Green House effect. This way, the adverse effects caused by heat in the background are prevented, and your environment is kept clean and safe.

Moreover, very little electrical energy is required to run the compressor in the outside unit. 1kW of electrical energy will output 4kW of heat energy compared to your ordinary heater, which gives you only 1kW of heat energy to 1kW of electrical energy. Meaning, 3kW of heat energy is recovered from the outside environment, added to the input energy, and outputs to you-leading to a more efficient system as there is no power loss. This way, you use less electrical energy, meaning you contribute less to burning more fossil fuels to produce that electrical energy.

Consequently, you save the environment from all the harmful byproducts of that process, including oxidants’ release, which causes acid rain and other dangerous effects. All of this happens with no compromise on your comfort and no compromise to your bank account.

Because of its high energy efficiency, the overall long-term costs of using the heat pump lowers. That means you get to save a lot more money than you would if you were to use a gas or a standard electrical heater.

Filters the Air and Keeps it Clean:

Another benefit of the ‘Mitsubishi Heat Pump’ is that it cleans your air. This filtration system is a fundamental quality in every ‘Mitsubishi’ product. Unlike heating systems like the gas heater, which lowers your air quality by absorbing the oxygen, heat pumps improve the air quality with their filtration system. In all seasons, your Mitsubishi system absorbs and filters the air. All the germs, allergens, bacteria, and deodorizing particles are filtered out and removed, leaving a better and fresh breath of air. This way, all heat given out and taken into and from the surroundings is clean and pollutant-free, making your home environment healthy.

Unlike all other traditional heaters, including wood burning, the heat pump doesn’t burn anything to keep you warm. That means there is no release of carbon emissions in the form of soot, smoke, and fumes, which can deteriorate the environment’s air.

Comfortable and Safe:

Compared to other heating systems, heat pumps use an intelligent Ductless Mini-Split to regulate heat around the room. As a result, the heat is distributed around your room evenly, whereas traditional heaters are spot heaters, and their range is proximal.

The Ductless Mini-Split unit also warms your room up to the temperature you’ve set and then stops, preventing a suffocating warm room. An added benefit to the system is, the Mitsubishi ductless unit is programmable to start its heating later in the day. Suppose you go to work and don’t want to come home to a cold room. No worries, you can program the unit to work according to your schedule. In fact, with the recent developments, you can now use WIFI to control your mini-split from wherever you are. All you need is an internet connection!

Furthermore, the Ductless Mini-Split is quiet and does not disturb you or your family while they work to keep you warm and fresh. As the heat pumps have no fire or a hot surface, they are perfectly safe for installation outside your home.

How Do Mitsubishi Hat Pumps Compare to Other Brands?

When it comes to selecting the perfect heating and cooling solution for your home, the marketplace is flooded with options from various brands, each claiming to offer the best performance and energy efficiency. Amidst this sea of choices, Mitsubishi Heat Pumps stand out as true game-changers in the HVAC industry. But how do they compare to other brands on the market?

One of the standout features of Mitsubishi Heat Pumps is their superior technology and innovation. Mitsubishi Electric has a long history of pioneering advancements in HVAC systems, and their heat pumps are no exception. Compared to many other brands, Mitsubishi Heat Pumps often incorporate cutting-edge components like inverter-driven compressors, precision controls, and advanced air filtration systems. These technologies not only provide more precise temperature control and greater energy efficiency but also contribute to a quieter and more comfortable living environment. In contrast, some other brands may rely on older, less efficient technology that results in more temperature fluctuations, increased energy consumption, and noisier operation, which can detract from your home’s comfort and energy savings.

Why You Should Invest in a Mitsubishi Heat Pump

As you can see, the ‘Mitsubishi Heat Pump’ is the perfect heating and cooling device that meets and exceeds all your heating and cooling needs. With its advanced technology, it keeps you safe and comfortable. Because it uses less energy and does not produce any new heat makes it the best product for your environment. Furthermore, the Ductless Mini-Split has an advanced filtration system, making the surrounding air clean and fresh by filtering out pollutants. Adding an ActivePure Hood will also sanitize the room under three minutes. Sanitization is a mandatory defense in hospitals and other critical areas where contaminants may cause you harm; it makes sense to defend you and your loved ones in the same manner. Finally, the WIFI feature and presetting feature help you control your homes heating and cooling according to your daily schedule. All in all, the Mitsubishi Heat Pump and Ductless Mini-Split units are the systems you need to install if you want an efficient home, a lower carbon footprint, and a healthier environment.

The Hudson Valley Green Team

January 4th, 2021 New Paltz, NY: Four longtime local businesses today announced a new partnership and have created The Hudson Valley Green Team. This partnership will be a “one stop shop” for homeowners interested in increasing the energy efficiency of their homes and reducing their carbon footprint.

Foamco is excited to be part of the Hudson Valley Green Team, says Jay “The Foam King” Storti. Our Partnership is designed to help create Healthier, Quieter, More Energy Efficient environments that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

“Being part of the HVGT is such a good feeling because I know we are helping to bring the Hudson Valley the top contractors in their fields.” says Anthony Sicari Owner of Sunpower by New York State Solar Farm. “Our homes are our biggest investment and I know that all the professionals in this group will treat your home as it was their own.”

“I’m proud to be part of the Hudson Valley Green Team.” says Scott Arnold, owner of RYCOR HVAC. “We are a small but highly effective group striving to raise awareness in green energy solutions and energy conservation.”

“The recent formation of HVGT is a true blessing for all involved in the community. To be able to serve Hudson Valley Homeownership alongside other successful local home improvement companies is a dream come true. There is a great need out there to EDUCATE, EQUIP, and EMPOWER the homeowner to make smart decisions for their family in the realm of green solutions. This will make a positive lasting impact on our environment. -Stephen R. Orefice, Vice President of Sales & Marketing

The benefits of this new partnership team include:

- Saving Money and reducing costs for Hudson Valley Homeowners through energy efficiency

- Introducing new and existing homeowners in the Hudson Valley to highly reputable, local contractors, focused on quality, value and green solutions

- Increasing your homes comfort and value while reducing your carbon footprint

About the Hudson Valley Green Team: The Hudson Valley Green Team (HVGT) consists of:

Sunpower by New York State Solar Farm a commercial and residential solar panel and battery storage installer located in Ulster County, Modena, NY (www.buysolarlocal.com). Founded in 2008, Sunpower by NYSSF has installed solar panels on over 2800 homes, farms and businesses. They are family owned and operated and have been designated a “Quality Solar Installer” by NYSERDA every year since the program’s creation in 2019, they were also voted the “Best Solar Installer” by Hudson Valley Magazine in 2019 and 2020. Sunpower Corporation has recognized them as a Master Dealer since 2018.

RYCOR HVAC is a heating and air conditioning contractor specializing in heat pumps located in Ulster County, New Paltz, NY (www.rycorhvac.com). Heat pumps are the most efficient and cost-effective way to heat and cool any residential or commercial building. Heat pumps heat, cool, dehumidify and purify the air in any building. Current government incentives pay for approximately 50% of the cost to convert from fossil fuels to clean electric heat pumps.

FOAMCO INC is the Hudson Valley’s leading spray foam insulation company headquartered in Orange County, Bullville, NY (www.foamcoinc.com). With over 20 years of experience in the home improvement industry, they focus on providing homeowners, builders, remodelers, and architects, a cost-effective insulation solution that provides superior performance, energy savings, and comfort.

New Beginnings Window and Door is a Full-Service Premium Window and Door Distributor serving the Hudson Valley since 2008 (nbwindow.com). Family-Owned and Operated they are located in Dutchess County, Wappingers Falls, NY where they have a 2,000 sq ft Showroom & Conference Center with 15+ Manufacturers to choose from for both Residential and Commercial Projects. THE NB WAY: Faith, Family, Honesty, Integrity, Loyalty. Don’t forget to “Begin Each Day with a Beautiful View.”

Mission Statement

Environmentally minded businesses dedicated to helping homeowners and communities by providing equipment, services and education that saves money through the use of energy efficient solutions.

The COVID-19 Survival Unit

Little boy and his teddy bear holding mask and looking out of window.

With the Covid-19 outbreak in January 2020 and the declaration of Covid-19 as a pandemic, the whole world was placed under lockdown. Now the virus has mutated in Europe, and medical professionals face another challenge while still managing the first. The norm worldwide is isolation, and being trapped in your home all day also has mental and physical health implications.

That is why we at Rycor have been searching for ways to not only increase your comfort but further fight the spread of illness from airborne and surface contaminants. Many have now heard and or experienced the Mitsubishi Ductless Mini-Split Wall-mounted heating and cooling unit. Yet, there is still more to these units as Rycor is adding ActivePure® Technologies ductless hoods. In addition to the ductless mini-split, these units kill viruses and bacteria through hyper oxide molecules. This is the perfect complement to the ductless mini-split. This is real-time protection that kills viruses within minutes. The Ductless Mini Split unit will keep you safe and comfortable as you spend your day in your home.

This article will inform you about every essential thing you need to know about the Mitsubishi ductless mini-split unit and why you should use it during this pandemic.

Key Features

The Mitsubishi wall-mounted heating and cooling unit have been designed by installing special features in it. These said features improve the performance and make your home environment comfortable as you spend your day at home during the spread of Covid-19. With ActivePure® Technology, the ductless mini-split becomes a unit that offers the required protections in hospitals, restaurants, and other susceptible facilities. This article will list some of the features below:

Comfort

For comfort purposes, Mitsubishi has opted for ‘precise comfort control’ technology. Return air sensors have been installed on the unit. These sensors will continuously monitor the room conditions and adjust the temperature accordingly. Moreover, 3D-i-see sensors have also been installed on the ductless mini-split unit.

These 3d-i-sensors scan the room using infra-red technology and adjust the temperature according to human heat signatures. So, you don’t have to worry about regulating the heat or cool manually. Just set the temperature to what you want; the unit will operate according to it automatically. Combine with ActivePure® Technology, the air and surfaces are also sanitized. Voila! You can do all that Netflix and chill without feeling too hot, too cold, and know that every contaminant has been destroyed.

Filtration

For their ductless mini-split unit, Mitsubishi has chosen the ‘multilayer allergen filtration’ system. It has a continuous fan operation that eradicates contaminants from the air and provides better air circulation. The allergen filtration system captures odors, dust, bacteria, and various other pollutants, therefore, protecting you from Covid-19 as a whole.

Remote control

Mitsubishi introduces to you specially designed remote controllers and smartphone apps for your unit, giving you absolute and full control over the ductless mini-split settings. Just set it once to what you desire, and you are all free to be lazy in your bed in the lockdown. Furthermore, you can be seated anywhere, and you don’t need to get out of bed to change the unit’s temperature. You can do it using your smartphone as you do your thing.

Styles

The ductless mini-split unit is available commercially in three colors: glossy black, matte silver, and glossy white. However, since you are stuck at your house because of Covid-19, you must explore various activities, including room decorating. For that particular reason, these units can be painted or wrapped according to your choice to compliment your room. This feature has not been seen in large home appliances previously and makes the ductless mini-split unique and attractive.

Installation

We have a team of master installers that only specialize in the ductless mini-split units. Also, Rycor will finish your install the same day. To ensure your mini-split system operates at optimal levels, we only use hardware specified by the manufacturer. This provides the ductless unit to work as it was designed to.

The following are a few benefits of the Mitsubishi Ductless Mini Split:

Air Quality

As discussed above, the multilayer allergen filtration system in the ductless mini-split unit filters out dust and removes bacteria from the air, hence protecting you from the disease Covid-19. The filters installed are also washable. So, you don’t have to worry about spending money to change the filters during the pandemic. You can wash them and save yourself additional costs.

Efficiency

The ductless mini-split units have zone by zone control technology. This enables you to control and maintain each area in your home separately and turn off zones that are not in use; less energy is used this way, and the bill is also reduced; as a result, thereby saving your money.

Hyper-heating

The wall-mounted heating and cooling unit keep you comfortable every season by using instant hot –start and H2I technologies. Since the lockdown has spread over two different seasons since it began, this type of technology becomes a must as you won’t need a separate heater and air conditioner: one unit can do both. Consequently, the bill is reduced, and energy is saved. Therefore, your money is once again saved.

Recommended Product

The product with the best reviews at the time of this publication is the Mitsubishi Electric, MSZ-FH12NA, wall-mounted heating, and cooling unit. It has a 12000 Cool BTU/H and a 14400 Heat BTU/H. Moreover, it has Energy Star technology and has all the controls discussed above available in it. It is nearly silent, and it has a fan speed of five units.

In Summary

The Mitsubishi ductless mini-split wall-mounted heating and cooling unit is a reasonable option suited to all your needs as you live through the lockdown and protect yourself from Covid-19. This unit will filter out the bacteria, protecting you, and its various other vital features will keep you comfortable during your efforts to limit the spread of Covid. Combined with ActivePure® technology, you have a device that will also sanitize the environment you are in. Finally, as a bonus, styling options will keep you engaged as you are stuck at home.

The most crucial part is that the ductless mini-split unit comes with features that do not require additional maintenance costs like the washable filters discussed above. In fact, the mini-split saves you money, which is an essential factor to consider as many people have suffered the loss of jobs or a decrease in salaries with the spread of Covid-19 and cannot afford to ‘waste’ money in this situation. Therefore, the ductless mini-split is the survival unit for you, your friends, and your family.

The Mitsubishi Ductless Mini Split

Inside a house with labels showcasing the indoor Mitsubishi unit, the outdoor Mitsubishi unit and the refrigerant lines.

The Ductless Mini-Split is a very efficient and scalable way to heat your entire home. Known as ductless mini-split air conditioners and heaters (due to the lack of ductwork), they consist of a wall-mounted indoor unit attached to an outdoor compressor. They are more efficient than window units and the central HVAC system. If you are only looking to reduce your bill by heating your favorite space, they can operate as a supplement to your existing heating and cooling equipment. The ductless mini-split is fully capable of serving the demands of your home.

Ductless, mini-split air-conditioners have numerous potential applications in residential, commercial, and institutional buildings. The most common applications are in single and multifamily homes or as add-ons to “non-ducted” houses with heating systems, such as hydronic (hot water heat), radiant panels, and space heaters (wood, kerosene, propane). They can also be the right choice for room additions and townhomes. Extending or installing ductwork to incorporate into an existing central air-conditioner or heating systems is usually not feasible in these scenarios.

Advantages of the Mitsubishi Ductless Mini Split

Advantages of mini-splits are their size and flexibility for zoning or heating and individually cooling rooms. With every zone having a thermostat, you only need to condition the space occupied, saving energy and money.

Since mini-splits have no ducts, they avoid the energy losses associated with ductwork. Duct losses account for more than 30% of energy consumption for space conditioning, especially when the ducts are in the attic, where temperatures and conditions drastically change. Another benefit to the ductless mini-split system is safety. A small hole in the wall makes it an impossible entry point for an intruder, unlike through-the-wall and window-mounted room air-conditioners.

Where Mitsubishi Mini Splits Work Well

Mini-splits can work as the primary system for the entire home and external locations such as a workshop garage. Many have discovered, ductless units can keep up with the heating and cooling demands for the whole year while increasing air quality and operating silently.

Mini-splits also make sense in rooms that are offset by the rest of the home’s heating system. Solariums, which can be “pretty much glass stoves,” heat and cool considerably faster than the rest of the house. “The thermostat in the hall 9.1m away has no idea it’s 85 degrees from the veranda.” A mini-split will allow you to declare this veranda individually from the rest of the house.

Rycor serves the Hudson Valley as its ductless mini-split specialist. Rycor only deals with Mitsubishi verified components. During the past few years, Mistubishi has always been top-rated as the most popular ductless mini-split provider. Not only has the company created energy-efficient home heating and cooling savings, but they also play a role in environmental conservation as they transfer heat instead of generating heat. Rycor ductless mini-split systems use 60% less energy than standard home electric resistance-based heating systems by cutting the cooling costs by 30% compared to conventional room air conditioners.

Disadvantages of the Mitsubishi Ductless Mini Split

While Mitsubishi ductless mini-split systems offer a plethora of benefits, it’s essential to consider their disadvantages before making a decision for your heating and cooling needs. Firstly, the upfront cost of purchasing and installing a ductless mini-split can be higher than traditional central HVAC systems or window units, which might deter budget-conscious homeowners. Secondly, while these systems are highly efficient, their efficiency can decrease in extremely cold climates, making them less suitable for regions with harsh winters. Additionally, the installation process may require professional expertise, which can add to the overall expense. Lastly, some homeowners may find the aesthetics of the indoor air handling units less appealing, as they are visible in the living space and can impact interior design choices. Despite these disadvantages, for many, the numerous advantages of Mitsubishi ductless mini-splits, such as energy efficiency, zoned cooling and heating, and improved indoor air quality, far outweigh the drawbacks.

Are Mitsubishi Mini Splits Worth the Cost?

Investing in a Mitsubishi mini-split system is a decision that ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities. While they may come with a higher initial price tag compared to some traditional HVAC options, Mitsubishi mini-splits offer numerous advantages that often make them well worth the cost. These systems are renowned for their exceptional energy efficiency, which can lead to significant long-term savings on utility bills. Moreover, their zoned cooling and heating capabilities provide precise temperature control, improving comfort while minimizing energy wastage. Mitsubishi mini-splits are also known for their whisper-quiet operation and advanced air filtration, contributing to a healthier and more comfortable living environment. When you factor in these benefits, along with the potential for rebates and incentives for energy-efficient systems, Mitsubishi mini-splits can be a wise investment that not only enhances your home’s comfort but also pays off in the form of lower energy bills and increased property value.

Get Three Estimates

We understand that there are many installers of mini-split systems, where we desire to be your first choice, we recommend you to call two or even three of our competitors. Consider this task to be an act that will save you thousands. Operating this way provides an evident awareness of what the market for this job is. As a result, you will be well informed, but it will also give you confidence in your decision. At a minimum, you should observe a quote describing the work involved and the parts associated with the job. Then bring those quotes to Rycor, where you will receive comprehensive advice from our experts on every piece of equipment used for the job. When you choose to use Rycor as your provider, we will also give you a hundred dollars off your installation for up to three competitive quotes.

Choose Rycor for Your Mitsubishi Ductless Mini Split

Rycor specializes in the ductless mini-split. We are a company that works to deliver the most efficient and cost-saving home solution. These systems are in our homes and protect our families. Through the harsh winters, the ductless mini-split operates well below freezing temperatures. During the summers, the same units keep the temperatures cool and eliminate the humidity that can cause damaging effects due to the excess moisture and dampness in hot spaces.

When you’re ready to upgrade the comfort of your home, we look forward to consulting with you. This consultation will serve you by being the beginning of a new comfort level and a healthier environment to live, work, eat, and experience pure comfort.

Do Mini-Splits Get Mold?

Various colorful mold types in a petri dish

A question came up, “Can mold grow in the ductwork?”. To answer this question, I took a look at what mold spores need to survive. Logic says, if you know what something needs to survive, it is likely that it has taken up residency where those needs are satisfied. When the conditions are in abundance, would it not be logical to say that a species that thrives in those conditions would also be abundant? Here is what I found within communities that study mold, fungus, and bacteria.

Mold spores need a stable temperature, water to hydrate and reproduce, and like all living things, a food source. From there, I looked into the food source of this fungus. What does mold love to eat? The answer is carpet fibers, paper, cardboard, drywall, and items containing cellulose. Spores don’t care for dry foods either, much like my dog, they want the wet stuff! Some molds like black mold are also mainly toxic. They produce mycotoxins as they eat, grow, and form colonies with their neighbors.

Symptoms Of Mold

A child sneezing in a tissue inside her home.

Now mycotoxicosis, also known as mold poisoning, can affect your upper respiratory system, leaving you with symptoms like cold or flu. Luckily it’s not hard to determine if you have a mold infestation. There is usually a musty smell associated with severe infestations. Also, you’ll find you get more headaches, sneezing, allergy type symptoms, and you’re often sick. If an infection is developed, more problems, especially for young children and those who have asthma, allergies, or anyone with a decreased lung capacity from smoking, etc., is in danger. If you have had long term exposure, you can be sure to experience any of the following:

- Asthma

- Cystic Fibrosis

- Weakened Immune Systems

- Allergies

- Pulmonary Issues

- Immunodeficiency Disorders

In many cases, you can find the source and remove the mold by cutting it out, bleaching non-porous surfaces, or using a fungicidal agent. But what do you do when you can’t see it because it’s inside the ductwork in your attic? You block it with HEPA filters, the ones that you check regularly, and replace when needed. The ones that fully cover the vents, leaving no gaps for small spores to get through. In many cases, the ones you have forgotten about and or have no desire pulling the ladder out to deal with them. Now, there are kits available to check your air quality and to determine if the mold is toxic. The truth is, if you have fungus growing in your home, you have a problem that needs removal. But how do you fix the problem when your home is using central air systems, and you have discovered mold in this perfect environment for spores to survive?

Removing Mold from Ductwork

Not all cleaning solutions are going to rid you of the problem. Some cleaning solutions will either stunt growth temporarily or cull the colony, which will eventually grow back. Doing the job yourself is risky as your exposure to the mold and chemicals used can be very damaging to your health. Think about it; you’re on a mission to kill an organic lifeform. You are also an organic lifeform, killing one will most certainly hurt the other. Therefore, it is our recommendation to hire a professional. When the mold is in your HVAC system, no matter how many times you clean it, the mold will surely grow again. The fungus returns because of the conditions offered by the environment. Remember, mold thrives in moist, temperature-controlled environments with a food source. Many companies treat the infestation by thoroughly cleaning, encapsulating, and using a biocide application. After all that, they still recommend the entire system to be inspected and re-treated again in 6 months. Another alternative is to install an Ultra Violet Light System inside the ductwork. This system will kill mold, bacteria, and fungus in the air that passes through the unit. Also, if you consider this method, make sure the UV light doesn’t shine on the air filters, as it will also damage them. Now you have a bulb to replace, along with the air filters. Some of you are even asking yourselves where the filters are?

A professional cleaner removing mold that is infected within a home

Can You Get Mold in a Mini Split?

A mini-split system is an incredible option. These systems heat and cool the area you are in, saving you money. The unit dealing with the heat pump stays outside and there is no ductwork to worry about. Also, the air has to pass through three filtration systems that block everything down to viruses. Another advantage, mini-split systems do not require retrofitting; this can save you thousands. Finally, these ductless systems are quick to install and do not need complex wiring setups. The best part is, there is an Air Source Heat Pump Incentive Program designed to support this more efficient technology.

How Can You Keep Mold Out of a Mini Split?

First and foremost, regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial in the fight against mold. Start by cleaning or replacing the air filters in your mini-split system as recommended by the manufacturer. Dirty or clogged filters can trap moisture and debris, creating an ideal environment for mold to thrive. Additionally, make it a routine to clean the evaporator and condenser coils with a mild detergent and water solution. These coils can accumulate dust and debris over time, providing a breeding ground for mold and reducing your system’s efficiency. Regular maintenance not only keeps your mini-split running smoothly but also helps mitigate mold growth by eliminating its potential habitat.

Another effective strategy to prevent mold is to control the humidity levels in your home. Mold thrives in high humidity environments, and mini-splits can help in this regard. Most modern mini-split units come equipped with dehumidification functions that can help maintain optimal indoor humidity levels. Set your mini-split to a comfortable humidity range, usually between 30% and 50%, to deter mold growth. Additionally, consider using standalone dehumidifiers in areas with high moisture levels, such as basements, to further reduce the risk of mold. By controlling humidity, you not only enhance your comfort but also create an environment that’s less inviting to mold spores.

How Often Should You Clean a Mini Split?

Proper maintenance of your mini-split air conditioning system is crucial to ensure it runs efficiently and provides you with clean, cool air year-round. Cleaning your mini-split is a key component of this maintenance regimen, but how often should you perform this task? The frequency of cleaning largely depends on various factors, including your environment, usage, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. However, a general guideline is to clean your mini-split at least twice a year – once in the spring before the cooling season begins and again in the fall before the heating season starts.

During these biannual cleanings, there are several essential components to address. Start by cleaning or replacing the air filters in your mini-split system. Dirty filters can reduce airflow, diminish cooling or heating efficiency, and even lead to mold growth. Check your manufacturer’s guidelines for the specific interval at which filters should be replaced or cleaned, but as a rule of thumb, this should be done every two to three months under normal usage conditions. Additionally, inspect the evaporator and condenser coils for dust and debris buildup. If you notice substantial dirt accumulation, it’s a good idea to clean these coils as well. Regular maintenance ensures that your mini-split continues to deliver optimal performance and air quality while preventing potential issues that could lead to costly repairs.

Our Incentive for You to Install a Mini Split System

Central Hudson knows that building and water heating are critical areas to address to meet clean energy goals. Electric HVAC heating systems are more efficient than systems using onsite oil heating and propane fuels and can have a significant impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Knowing this, Central Hudson is offering incentives to replace or offset existing fuel oil and propane systems with efficient electric heat pumps, including ductless mini-split, and heat pump water heaters. Central Hudson has expanded this program to include more than $24 million in heat pump incentives available to residential and commercial customers. This incentive works out to you getting five systems for the price of two. There is no better time than now to save on your heating and cooling and eliminate threats to your comfort and health. Contact Rycor and learn about the solutions available for your home.

Sources

Healthline

https://www.healthline.com

Central Hudson

https://www.cenhud.com

NYSERDA

https://www.nyserda.ny.gov/All-Programs/Programs/Clean-heating-and-cooling-solutions

Is Electric Heaters More Efficient Than Gas Heaters?

A woman lying on the couch, raising her arm with a mini split system remote control in her hand.

As we enter the summer, the focus on comfort changes from staying warm to finding a way to cool off. Alternatively, our heating costs shift as well, and this is mainly due to efficiency. If you weren’t aware, not all heating systems are created equal! In the case of electric versus gas, Electric Heat Systems are 100% energy efficient as all the electrical energy converts to heat; but, there is more to the story. Not all heating and cooling systems are green. To produce electricity energy, we often make use of oil, coal, and gas. These fuels utilize more energy to create electrical power. But let’s look deeper still, insulation, air leaks via windows, doors, and attics are main culprits that leach your energy savings. Also, many systems heat and or cool all areas of your home. This all or nothing approach to heating and cooling factored in with the above mentioned, makes energy savings a moot point.

Outside of external physical comfort, let us turn our attention inwards. Our lungs are directly affected by heating and cooling systems. Did you know that one piece of dust can contain fragments of dead insects, mold spores, dead skin, and pet dander? In the case of central air systems, over time, this combination of decaying matter collects in the ducts. Now consider what happens when this material accumulates in the dark, humid environment of a hot attic and inside walls during the summer months. Everything begins to rot and is further fed on by smaller organisms. Once digested and eliminated by these organisms, the new deposits are released into the air when you turn the system back on. “But that’s why there are filters,” you may be saying, these filters if regularly changed, do help, but if you are still sneezing, then they aren’t helping that much. If your system isn’t using a multi-part filter that reduces viruses and bacteria, odors, and allergens, then your not breathing as comfortable as you can.

Technology today offers us systems that manage specified zones. I know some of you may be saying, “I have one of those; it sits in my window…” The idea is there, but an AC unit will not circulate the air as efficiently as other systems. Air Conditioners create cold spots, warm spots where they haven’t managed to circulate the air and areas that sit in the Goldy Locks zone where everything seems just right. Window air conditioning units also create damage and not only to the window sill itself. Condensation from the AC units often ends up running down the walls, etc. Lastly, if AC units are on the ground floor, they serve as an invitation to anyone seeking easy access to your home. A better option is what’s called a Mini-Split.

These ductless units are small and designed to cool and heat the area specified. Each area has a thermostat, allowing you to create Nirvana in occupied spaces saving you energy and money. Mini-Splits operate utilizing a heat pump. These small units reverse the flow of refrigerant, absorbing heat from outside and moving it inside to provide warmth, and vice versa, to give the warmth we love on a cold day. But wait, it gets even hotter (pun intended), there is Hyper-Heating! Mitsubishi Electric MUZ-FH Heat Pumps are the only heat pumps that feature this technological advancement. Conventional heat pumps degrade as the temperature begins to fall below 47 degrees Fahrenheit. Where many heat pumps fail at low temperatures, the Mitsubishi MUZ-FH Heat Pump at 5 degrees Fahrenheit still maintains a 100% capacity. When it’s blistering hot outside or freezing, the Mini-Spit system is the way to save on energy. The savings over time makes these units fall into that category of items purchased with no regrets. You might even find yourself looking at the Mini-Split and becoming emotional from the extreme comfort it has brought you through the year.

When it comes to efficiency, factor in insulation, location, and space, if all conditions check out, “that which follows the path of least resistance (for my non-science people, the answer is electricity),” is truly the best choice. If you also desire a completely Green Energy Efficient Solution, power your system with solar.

Sources:

Energy.gov

Web MD: Dust Allergens