Many homes struggle with hot and cold spots, rooms that never quite reach the right temperature, or spaces that your central HVAC system just can’t seem to handle effectively. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Fortunately, there’s a smart, flexible solution that’s transforming how homeowners think about comfort: ductless mini-split systems.

These innovative systems offer precise, room-by-room climate control that can eliminate those frustrating temperature inconsistencies once and for all. Whether you’re dealing with a sun-soaked home office, a chilly basement, or a guest room that’s always too hot or too cold, ductless systems provide the customized comfort your home deserves.

What Is a Ductless (Mini-Split) System?

A ductless mini-split system consists of two main components: an outdoor unit and one or more indoor air handlers. These components are connected by refrigerant and power lines, but here’s the key difference—there’s no ductwork required. The outdoor unit houses the compressor and condenser, while the sleek indoor units handle air distribution directly into each room.

This simple design means minimal installation disruption. You won’t need extensive renovations or major construction work. Most installations require only a small 3-inch hole in the wall to connect the indoor and outdoor units.

Indoor units offer flexible mounting options to suit your space and aesthetic preferences. You can choose from wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted, or floor-mounted units, ensuring the system blends seamlessly with your home’s design.

Top 5 Ways a Ductless System Boosts Room-by-Room Comfort

Tailored Climate Control in Every Room (Zoned Comfort)

The biggest advantage of ductless systems is their ability to provide independent climate control for each room. Every indoor unit operates separately, allowing you to set different temperatures based on how each space is used and your personal preferences.

Imagine cooling your bedroom to the perfect sleeping temperature without over-cooling the rest of your home. Or keeping your home office comfortable during the day while letting unused rooms remain at more energy-efficient settings. This level of control simply isn’t possible with traditional central systems.

Real users have experienced remarkable results. One homeowner shared, “Mini-splits are easy to install and highly effective in cooling a room.” Another reported, “I installed a mini-split in the master bedroom… My power bill dropped roughly $100 a month.”

Superior Energy Efficiency

Traditional ducted systems can lose up to 30% of their energy through ductwork—but ductless systems eliminate this waste entirely. By delivering conditioned air directly into each room, these systems operate far more efficiently than conventional HVAC systems.

Energy Star-certified ductless models can use up to 60% less energy than conventional electric heating systems. This efficiency translates into significant savings on your utility bills, often paying for the system’s installation costs over time.

Quiet, Compact Operation

Ductless systems operate at whisper-quiet levels, with many indoor units producing as little noise as a gentle hum. This makes them perfect for bedrooms, home offices, or any space where noise could be disruptive.

The compact, space-saving design of indoor units means they won’t dominate your room’s aesthetics. Modern units feature sleek, unobtrusive designs that blend well with most interior styles.

Improved Indoor Air Quality

Without ductwork, ductless systems avoid the dust, allergens, and contaminants that can accumulate in traditional air ducts. Many ductless systems also include advanced multi-stage filtration systems that actively clean the air as they heat or cool your space.

This means cleaner, healthier air for your family—especially important for those with allergies or respiratory sensitivities.

Flexible, Fast, and Non-Disruptive Installation

Installation typically takes just one day and requires minimal disruption to your home. The small hole needed to connect indoor and outdoor units is far less invasive than installing new ductwork, which often requires opening walls and ceilings.

This makes ductless systems ideal for retrofit applications, home additions, converted spaces, and any area where traditional ductwork would be impractical or expensive to install.

Real-World Comfort Scenarios

Ductless systems excel in several specific situations:

Sun-drenched home offices or guest rooms can maintain perfectly cool temperatures without forcing your central system to overcool the entire house.

Home additions or sunrooms often lack proper ductwork connections. A ductless system provides immediate, customized comfort without expensive renovations.

Bedrooms with different temperature preferences allow family members to sleep comfortably without thermostat battles.

Converted spaces like finished basements, garage workshops, or attic rooms that central systems struggle to reach can finally achieve consistent comfort.

Considerations Before Installation

Before moving forward with a ductless system, assess which rooms need the most attention. Focus on spaces that get the most use or consistently have comfort issues.

Proper sizing and placement are crucial. An undersized system won’t provide adequate comfort, while an oversized system wastes energy and money. Professional assessment ensures you get the right capacity for your specific needs.

Consider the long-term investment. While ductless systems may have higher upfront costs than some alternatives, energy savings and available rebates often offset the initial expense. Many utility companies and manufacturers offer incentives that can significantly reduce installation costs.

Finally, remember that indoor units will be visible in your rooms. While modern designs are sleek and attractive, placement and aesthetics should be part of your planning process.

Why Work With Grasshopper Heating, Cooling & Plumbing

Proper installation makes all the difference in system performance and efficiency. Grasshopper’s experienced technicians understand the nuances of sizing, placement, and installation to ensure your ductless system delivers maximum comfort and efficiency.

Our team can also guide you through available rebates, tax credits, and energy incentives, including Energy Star benefits that can help offset installation costs. We provide full-service support, including ongoing maintenance and seasonal tune-ups to keep your system running smoothly.

Transform Your Home’s Comfort

Ductless systems represent a smart evolution in home comfort technology. They offer precise zoning capabilities, outstanding energy efficiency, quiet operation, and installation flexibility that traditional systems simply can’t match. For homeowners tired of dealing with uncomfortable rooms and inefficient heating and cooling, ductless systems provide a solution that truly transforms how you experience comfort in your home.

Ready to explore how ductless systems can solve your home’s comfort challenges? Contact Grasshopper Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for a no-obligation consultation. Our experts will assess your specific needs and help you discover the perfect ductless solution for your home.

Summer heat in Upstate NY can push your air conditioning system to its limits. While temperatures may not reach the extremes of southern states, the combination of heat and humidity creates a significant burden on cooling systems. The good news? Most AC breakdowns are preventable with proper maintenance and attention to early warning signs.

Understanding these common issues and taking proactive steps can save you from sweltering through a heat wave while waiting for emergency repairs. Grasshopper Heating, Cooling & Plumbing has been helping Upstate NY homeowners maintain comfortable homes since 2016, and we’ve seen these problems time and again during peak summer months.

Dirty or Blocked Condenser Coils & Outdoor Units

Your outdoor condenser unit works hard to release heat from your home, but it can’t do its job effectively when surrounded by debris. Dirt, leaves, grass clippings, and other outdoor elements accumulate around the unit throughout the year, restricting crucial airflow and forcing your system to work harder.

When condenser coils become dirty or blocked, your AC struggles to cool your home efficiently. This leads to higher energy bills and puts unnecessary strain on system components that can result in premature failure.

Prevention Tips:

• Maintain at least 2 feet of clearance around your outdoor unit
• Clean coils at the start of summer and again mid-season if needed
• Trim grass and remove debris regularly as part of your maintenance routine
• Gently hose off dirt and cobwebs from the unit’s exterior

Clogged Air Filters

Air filters are your AC system’s first line of defense against dust, pollen, and other airborne particles. When filters become clogged, airflow decreases dramatically, reducing your system’s efficiency and potentially causing evaporator coils to freeze.

Dirty filters don’t just hurt performance—they can lead to costly repairs and poor indoor air quality for your family.

Prevention Tips:

• Check filters monthly during heavy-use summer months
• Replace filters every 1–2 months, or more frequently if you have pets or excessive dust
• Use pleated filters for better air quality and longer-lasting performance
• Set calendar reminders or ask Grasshopper about filter replacement programs

Refrigerant Leaks & Frozen Evaporator Coils

Low refrigerant levels, often caused by leaks in the system, severely impact your AC’s cooling capacity. When refrigerant is low, the evaporator coil can freeze, creating a cycle of poor performance and potential damage to other components.

These issues require professional attention—adding refrigerant without fixing the underlying leak is a temporary solution that wastes money and doesn’t address the root problem.

Prevention Tips:

• Schedule pre-season inspections to check refrigerant levels and system condition
• Don’t ignore signs like ice on indoor coils or reduced cooling capacity
• Call professionals immediately if you notice frozen coils or inadequate cooling
• Ensure any repairs properly fix leaks before refrigerant is added

Thermostat & Electrical Component Failures

Your thermostat is the brain of your cooling system, but even smart thermostats can malfunction or be improperly programmed. Electrical issues like faulty capacitors or damaged wiring can also cause system failures or inefficient operation.

These problems often develop gradually, so your AC may seem to work but not cool effectively or cycle on and off irregularly.

Prevention Tips:

• Verify your thermostat is set to “cool” and positioned away from heat sources or direct sunlight
• Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat for better control and efficiency
• Include electrical component inspections—wiring, capacitors, and connections—in annual maintenance
• Test your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer periodically

Obstructed Ducts, Mold & Drainage Problems

Ductwork problems reduce your system’s ability to deliver cool air effectively throughout your home. Leaky or blocked ducts waste energy and create uneven temperatures. Meanwhile, humidity can lead to mold growth in ducts or around the indoor unit, affecting air quality and system performance.

Clogged condensate drain lines can cause water damage or automatic system shutdowns designed to protect your home and equipment.

Prevention Tips:

• Inspect visible ductwork for leaks or damage; seal with appropriate materials
• Watch for musty odors that may indicate mold growth—address promptly with professional cleaning
• Keep condensate drain lines clear and include drain checks in regular inspections
• Ensure adequate ventilation around indoor units to prevent moisture buildup

When to Call Grasshopper Heating, Cooling & Plumbing

Some maintenance tasks are manageable for homeowners, but certain situations require professional expertise:

• Your AC doesn’t cool effectively after basic cleaning and troubleshooting
• You notice frozen coils, suspect refrigerant leaks, or encounter electrical problems
• Strange odors, unusual noises, water pooling, or uneven cooling appear
• You want comprehensive preventive maintenance to avoid future problems

Stay Cool All Summer Long

Heat waves in Upstate NY are predictable, and so are these common AC problems. Simple preventive measures can help you avoid emergency breakdowns, reduce energy costs, and maintain consistent comfort throughout the summer months.

Regular maintenance isn’t just about preventing problems—it’s about ensuring your system operates at peak efficiency when you need it most. Don’t wait for your AC to fail during the hottest day of the year.

Contact Grasshopper Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today to schedule your seasonal tune-up or diagnostic service. Our NATE-certified technicians provide the expert care your cooling system needs to keep your family comfortable all summer long.

Deciding when to schedule AC maintenance might feel like a difficult task. After all, if your air conditioner is running perfectly at your Capital District, NY, home, why bother with a maintenance call? Our inspections can catch problems before they lead to a breakdown, ensuring you stay cool and comfortable all summer.

Our AC system technicians recommend annual air conditioning unit tune-ups performed in spring. Learn more about why yearly maintenance checks are important and why spring is the best time to do them.

Scheduling Maintenance for Your Central Air Conditioning System

Even if the unit cooled your home successfully last summer, it could have underlying problems that might result in a summertime HVAC breakdown at the hottest time of the year. It’s better to catch any issues before you need your AC unit to run daily during the summer heat.

Our maintenance team will do a visual inspection of the air conditioning system, looking for loose or damaged parts. We’ll run a diagnostic test to measure performance. Some issues with the air compressor or thermostat may not be obvious but will show up during testing.

We may find some parts that are close to wearing out. We can replace them preemptively, ensuring they don’t cause a breakdown in the middle of the hottest summer months. Spring is the best time to schedule preventive maintenance because many HVAC companies are not as busy.

Staying ahead of potential malfunctioning parts ensures your cooling system is ready to operate whenever you need it. We can give you priority service when you schedule annual maintenance.

Frequently Asked Question: What is included in an air conditioning maintenance service?

Why We Recommend Doing HVAC Maintenance in Spring Instead of Other Times of the Year

When you are ready to schedule AC maintenance, set up a spring appointment. Should the unit have suffered any damage during winter’s freezing temperatures, we can spot these problems right away.

Most of the time, Capital District, NY, has mild temperatures in the spring so homeowners and business owners won’t need to run their air conditioners during these months. By tuning up the AC unit before it needs to run regularly in summer, you’ll receive better energy efficiency which will save you money on your cooling bills.

Doing Air Conditioning Maintenance Doesn’t Work Better in Summer

Some might think it’s better to wait until the air conditioner runs regularly for a month or so to make it easier to catch parts that are close to breaking down.

However, waiting until summer has already begun increases the chance of a breakdown occurring before our HVAC technicians arrive. If we need to make repairs, it might take longer in summer since it is the busiest time of the year for our air conditioner repair technicians.

You don’t want to let damage and other wintertime AC worries continue to linger into summer. What might start as a simple repair job could worsen significantly if the AC unit runs for several weeks before fixing it.

For these reasons, spring is always the best option for when to schedule AC maintenance.

How Long Does an Air Conditioner Maintenance Tune-up Take?

As long as we don’t find any parts that need repair, we can complete standard air conditioner servicing within a couple of hours. Any repairs we make usually go faster than normal because we have the HVAC system already open during maintenance.

What Steps Can I Take Between Routine Maintenance Visits?

Cleaning or replacing your system’s air filter is a job most homeowners can do on their own for the heating and cooling system. You should change the filter every two to three months throughout the year. A buildup of debris on the air filter will limit the performance of both the heating system and the AC unit.

Remove weeds, trees, or bushes growing near the outdoor unit of the installed central air conditioning system. A properly functioning exterior unit needs free space so air can move across it.

Reach Out for AC Service From the Experts at Grasshopper Heating & Cooling

Rather than worrying about when to schedule AC maintenance, let our expert technicians at Grasshopper Heating & Cooling help. We can set up regular maintenance checkups for spring each year, simplifying the process for you.

If our air conditioning technicians find any AC problem that needs repair, we’ll give you a transparent cost estimate before we start working. To schedule an appointment in the Capital District, NY, region, call us today at (518) 545-3271 or contact us online.

Do you know what is included in AC maintenance? If you’re unfamiliar with the service, Grasshopper Heating & Cooling can help you understand why it’s so important. Keep reading to understand why we encourage every homeowner to schedule AC maintenance at least once a year.

The Most Popular Maintenance Tasks for an Air Conditioning System

During the annual maintenance checkup for an air conditioning system, qualified HVAC technicians perform various tasks. The process usually doesn’t require much more than simple tweaks and minor repairs.

Cleaning Dirt Buildup on Air Filters

Homeowners should change their air filters at least once a month. However, families with any of the following should replace filters more frequently:

• Smokers
• Pets
• Respiratory conditions
• Allergies
• Poor indoor air quality

As part of their professional AC maintenance services, the worker will change the filter. They may suggest upgrading to a more powerful product if they think you could benefit from it.

Checking the Evaporator and Condenser Coils

A thorough inspection should always include the condenser (outdoor unit) and evaporator coil (indoor unit). These components help dissipate heat and distribute cool air into the ventilation. If they build up dirt or experience damage, homeowners will feel lukewarm or hot air blowing throughout the home.

During the AC inspection, the technician will inspect them for damage. They’ll also clean off any dirt and clear away any debris.

Addressing Problems With Refrigerant Levels

What is included in AC maintenance services? Finding and fixing problems with refrigerant levels is one of the most common tasks. Without adequate levels of the chemical, AC units and heat pumps can’t work.

During professional ac maintenance, the technician will ensure the device meets the manufacturer’s specifications for refrigerant levels. If they find it’s low, they’ll add more.

Lubricating Moving Parts

Like any network of mechanical pieces, the components in an AC unit can start rubbing together. One important aspect of HVAC maintenance is adding lubrication.

For example, when the system’s fan starts grinding, it makes the disturbing sound of metal on metal, necessitating AC repairs. By investing in simple preventative maintenance, the problem won’t progress this far.

Tightening Loose Electrical Connections

A heating and cooling system contains various electrical connections. Because the device vibrates as it works, its electrical wiring can grow loose. Regular maintenance ensures the air conditioner maintains tight connections so it won’t shut down at the worst moment.

The Importance of Scheduling Regular Air Conditioner Checkups

Schedule a proper maintenance appointment for an AC unit in late spring to put it in peak condition for the cooling season.

An AC Tune-Up Helps the System Last Longer

Now that you know what is included in AC maintenance, you can understand how it helps the HVAC system last longer. An air conditioner should last between 12 and 15 years, and replacing it requires a major investment. By keeping everything in peak condition, homeowners delay this expense.

Making Minor Adjustments Prevents More Costly Repairs

Scheduling professional maintenance for AC systems reduces the frequency and severity of repairs. When wear and tear goes unchecked, things break more frequently. Being proactive with maintenance will cost you less in the long term.

Running at Peak Efficiency Maintains Lower Energy Bills

When a device ages and experiences wear and tear, it uses more electricity to cool a home and you’ll see a significant rise in energy bills.

When a professional technician provides routine maintenance, they reduce wear and tear and keep the device in peak condition. The small expense of the appointment is nothing compared to the savings from reduced cooling costs.

An HVAC Contractor Improves Comfort

Over time, AC systems struggle to provide optimal comfort. Homeowners may experience reduced airflow, increased allergy symptoms, and warmer and more humid temperatures.

An HVAC company helps a home’s AC unit stay in peak condition. Your home will remain a place of rest and a sanctuary that makes weathering the hot and humid summers easier.

Air Conditioning Maintenance Helps Avoid Safety Concerns

While an air conditioner doesn’t contain as many safety devices as a furnace, keep it properly maintained to avoid concerns. For example, a refrigerant is a toxic substance that can cause long-term health complications. Avoiding problems protects everyone’s health.

Start Caring for Your Cooling System Today

If you’re wondering what is included in AC maintenance, Grasshopper Heating & Cooling uses an extensive checklist. We provide a membership maintenance plan to increase the value of your investment. Our customers love our consistently professional service and our dedication to their satisfaction.

To schedule service, call (518) 545-3271.

When your AC’s cooling performance declines, there’s a good chance the problems originated with the AC coils. There are two coils: the evaporator coil and the condenser coil. They get a lot of wear and tear.

Grasshopper Heating & Cooling put together the following information to explain the importance of understanding the role of AC coils. Once you understand what they do, you see that caring for them properly keeps you cool and your AC functioning.

How AC Coils Keep Your Home Cool

The AC coils make the refrigerant cycle possible, so when there’s no AC coil function, there’s no cool air.

How the Evaporator Coil Helps Cool Your Home

There’s no such thing as an AC simply blowing cold air. The cool air comes from the air conditioner removing hot air via heat exchange. 

The blower fan sends hot, moist air to the evaporator coil. The coil contains refrigerant. When muggy air passes over it:

1. The refrigerant cools the air.
2. The cool air flows back into the house.
3. The refrigerant vaporizes.

Next, the vaporized refrigerant floats toward the condenser coil outside.

How the Condenser Coil Helps Cool Your Home

Once the vapor exits the house, it floats over the compressor on its way to the condenser coil. The compressor spikes the vapor’s temperature. Then the outer unit’s fan sends air over the condenser coil.

This process expels heat into the air. The condenser coil liquifies the refrigerant, signifying that it’s cooled. The refrigerant shoots back to the evaporator coil. 

And then it starts all over. When it works, you enjoy fresh air. When something goes wrong, the house fills with hot, stale air quickly.

Air Conditioning Maintenance Elevates HVAC System Efficiency

Understanding the role of AC coils means you can’t put off getting regular maintenance services to keep the coils in prime performance mode. These services keep your energy bills low and optimize the system. 

During maintenance, a professional contractor will look for corrosion on the evaporator coil. They will clear debris clogging the outer unit, getting rid of twigs and leaves. They will also refill the refrigerant if necessary. 

Professionals go through the system step-by-step to ensure your AC blows quality air.

Signs of a Damaged Evaporator Coil 

You may have a malfunctioning evaporator coil if you notice: 

• Refrigerant leaks
• Ice on the outside of the unit
• An inaccurate thermostat reading 

Signs of a Damaged Condenser Coil 

A damaged condenser coil often produces these symptoms:

• Loud noises coming from the unit
• The unit cycling on and off
• Inadequate cooling throughout the house

Maintenance and speedy repairs heighten AC performance and extend longevity. 

Contact Grasshopper Heating & Cooling for HVAC Maintenance and Coil Repairs

Understanding the role of AC coils makes it easier to understand why timely maintenance and repairs matter.

Grasshopper Heating & Cooling provides HVAC maintenance to ensure your AC coils produce cool air. We also do other HVAC repairs and installations. Call 518-241-5734 to stay cool or get cool soon.

According to Angi, the average cost for AC unit repair in 2024 was between $130 and $2,000.¹ Repairing a central air conditioner can cost up to $4,200.² Consumers are often baffled when they receive their AC repair bill. The cost of fixing an air conditioner is often high and comes unexpectedly. 

But how does an AC contractor determine the price to charge? We’ll now explain their rationale for setting repair costs. 

AC Unit Repair Cost Factors

An AC repair company has considerable overhead. And the HVAC industry isn’t known for reasonable prices (inflation isn’t helping). Nevertheless, a contractor must factor in the following when determining repair costs:

Type of Unit

Air conditioners come in different shapes and forms. The cost to fix an issue often depends on the type of unit. Common types of ACs and repair cost ranges include:

• Central AC ($100 to $4,200)²: Common issues include drain clogs, refrigerant leaks, dirty evaporator coils, and faulty thermostats.
• Ductless Mini-Split ($150 to $1,000): Refrigerant leaks, frozen compressor coils, and circuit board malfunctions are often issues that need to be fixed. 
• Heat Pumps ($200 to $3,500): Faulty valves, pipe leaks, frozen coils, dirty outdoor units, and malfunctioning heat pump components are common problems.
• Window AC ($100 to $300): Frozen coils, faulty thermostats, and compressor malfunctions are common issues a technician must address.

Labor

Labor may account for up to 50% of your AC repair bill. An initial assessment may cost between $100 and $250. Once the contractor determines the type of repair needed, they may charge a flat fee for parts and labor. Or, they may charge for parts and anywhere from $100 to $250 per hour for labor, so the length of the job has a significant impact on the cost of AC unit repair.¹

Location

Climate and cost of living can influence what an AC contractor charges for AC repairs. The same types of repairs can differ in cost from place to place. Expect to pay more for common repairs in areas where AC is in high demand. Also, if your area’s cost of living is high, your local contractor will likely charge more. 

Emergency Repair Fees

An AC contractor must often visit during off hours to make emergency repairs. Therefore, they will charge extra. To perform work after business hours, a technician may add $40 to $80 per hour to complete the same type of repair.¹

Parts

Most AC parts are not cheap and become more expensive the older your system gets. That’s a factor in deciding the cost of AC unit repair. Some of the parts your air conditioner might need during a repair, and their average costs, are as follows¹:

• Thermostat: $15 to $300, depending on its type and features. Installation can cost $65 to $100 per hour.
• Thermostatic Expansion Valve: $100 to $500, which includes the process of draining refrigerant.
• Capacitor: $100 to $500 for replacing this part that helps start the system’s motor.
• Circuit Board: $100 to $600 to repair or replace the AC system circuit board.
• Blower/Fan Motor: $200 to $500 to replace the condenser fan motor; $400 to $700 to replace the blower motor.
• Evaporator/Condenser Coils: $400 to $1,500 to replace the coils, especially if they’re not maintained well.
• Compressor: At up to $2,000, the compressor is one of the largest and most expensive AC components to replace. 
• Ductwork Repair: Fixing ducts can cost a few hundred to up to $2,000, depending on the extent of the repairs.

Deciding the Cost of AC Unit Repair Isn’t Easy

Your local HVAC company likely has a formula for determining the cost of repairs. But there are many elements to include. In addition to those mentioned above, permit and inspection costs may be added; these can increase your repair bill by a few hundred dollars. Some AC services, such as airflow inspections and electrical checks, cost extra. Also, replacing ductwork or major HVAC components often requires obtaining a permit and paying the required fee. Contractors must pass these costs on to the customer to remain profitable.

However, AC companies often extend discounts to customers who purchase maintenance service contracts. Following tips such as changing filters regularly, keeping debris away from the AC unit, not delaying minor repairs, and replacing worn parts can also lower long-term repair costs.

Call Grasshopper Heating & Cooling

We’re a leading AC repair company in Clifton Park, NY. Available 24/7, we can fix any problem and offer specials and financing to help you save. To learn more or schedule service, call (518) 545-3271 now.

Sources:

1. https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-hvac-repair-cost.htm 
2. https://todayshomeowner.com/hvac/cost/ac-repair-cost/

By now, you’ve probably heard about or considered installing a ductless air conditioner. There are many reasons to consider installing one. Like a conventional central AC system, it has an outdoor compressor and an indoor evaporator unit and uses refrigerant to absorb and release heat. Below, we’ll explain eight reasons to consider a ductless system so you can determine if it is right for your home.

1. Hassle-Free Installation

Installing a ductless AC system is much simpler than installing a central air conditioning system. There’s no ductwork to install, which immediately reduces the time, effort, and cost of the project. It can cost half as much to install a ductless unit than a ducted one. Plus, you don’t have to tear apart the ceiling or walls. The indoor and outdoor units are connected by a conduit that requires just a 3” hole in an exterior wall, which is hidden out-of-sight behind the air handler.

In addition to the simplicity of installation, ductless air conditioners offer more flexibility. You can install three or more ductless units to control the temperature of different rooms or areas separately. This means you can turn off units you don’t need and save energy while everyone in your household can adjust the temperature to their liking.

2. Reduced Operating Costs

If you’re looking to save on your monthly utility bills, installing a ductless AC system can meet your goals. The absence of ductwork is the primary reason. Air ducts can lose a significant amount of air through gaps, holes, and tears, which wastes energy. Much of a central air conditioner’s energy consumption is taken up by it compensating for air loss from ducts.

3. Increased Efficiency

Ductless air conditioners have a higher seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) than other cooling systems. A ducted system is typically rated from 12 to 16 SEER. However, a ductless system can be rated at 30 SEER or higher, meaning it is inherently much more efficient. It also contributes to a lower carbon footprint for your home, reducing environmental emissions.

4. Minimal Maintenance

There’s not much to do to keep a ductless AC in top shape. Clean or replace the air filters regularly, as recommended by the manufacturer. Also, keep shrubs, debris, and objects away from the outside unit and fan and obstructions away from indoor vents. There are fewer vents to clean and no ducts to be checked, cleaned, or sealed. Therefore, you can save significantly throughout the year.

5. Improved Indoor Air Quality

Dust and dander tend to collect in air ducts and re-circulate in your home. Invisible contaminants such as fumes, chemicals, bacteria, and viruses can also pollute your indoor air, while ductwork often harbors mold and algae as well as insects and rodents. Ductless air conditioners often use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters to block microparticles as small as 0.3 microns, but even standard filters do a good job of keeping the air clean. 

6. Compatibility with Smart Systems

Many ductless units work with smart controllers that can be operated from your smartphone. A Wi-Fi controller is a modern amenity that lets you control your AC from anywhere. It can incorporate weekly scheduling, temperature- and humidity-based triggers, and location-based controls. The controller can even track usage history and link with smart home assistants.

7. Possible Heating Capabilities

Ductless systems with heaters eliminate the need to purchase a furnace or other heating appliance. These are often called ductless heat pumps and can be reversed by changing the setting. You do not need a furnace or have to deal with its associated operating and maintenance costs. Your AC can be used every season of the year.

8. Financial Incentives

By installing a ductless air conditioner, you may be eligible for financial incentives such as rebates from your utility company. Some equipment is also eligible for a federal tax credit, so you can claim up to 30% of the project cost. You can qualify for a credit of up to $600 depending on the air conditioner and up to $2,000 for heat pumps.

Call Grasshopper Heating & Cooling

Our customers in Clifton Park, Albany, and surrounding areas rely on us to install ductless air conditioning systems. These mini-split systems cut utility costs and last longer than conventional AC units. In addition, our EPA-certified technicians can clean or repair your system. To learn more and receive a free ductless air conditioner estimate and consultation, call Grasshopper Heating & Cooling at (518) 241-1758.

You may be experiencing urgent signs to call for heating repair near Clifton Park, NY. At Grasshopper Heating & Cooling, our EPA-certified HVAC technicians are available 24/7 to provide heating system repair. The longer you wait, the more damage that can occur, and the greater the risk to your safety and that you’ll need to replace your furnace, heat pump, or thermostat. 

Heating systems are more likely to develop problems and break down during the coldest days of the winter. The smallest issue can be dangerous, especially if your home is without heat for an extended time. We understand the urgency, so let us know and our experienced professionals will quickly diagnose and fix the problem, no matter its size or scope or the brand, type, or model of your heater.

Here are some of the most common signs you need to call for heating repair:

Your Home Is Too Cool

You’ve turned the heat up full blast. Yet, the air blowing from the vents is lukewarm or downright cold. Perhaps some parts of your home are warm and other spots are chilly. Being left shivering in the cold is not only uncomfortable; it can be dangerous. Whether the cause is a faulty thermostat or a bad part in your heater, it must be resolved right away.

It’s Harder to Control Your Heating System

If you keep turning the thermostat higher and higher to get comfortable, something is wrong. Your heating system isn’t working as effectively. The more you turn up the heat, the more energy the system will use. Prompt heating repair will restore your comfort, keep your utility bills down, and may help your furnace or heat pump last longer.

Your Electric Bill Is Higher Than Ever

A high electric bill can mean you have an urgent heater problem. By now, you should know the rates your utility company charges in winter. Besides, rates are usually increased gradually. A sudden spike in your bill likely means you need a heating system repair. If a component is malfunctioning, your heater will work harder to compensate. The increase in energy consumption will raise your monthly bill.

Loud Noises from Your Heater

Call your local heating company if you hear banging, rumbling, thumping, clanking, squeaking, whistling, or rattling noises from your heater. These are signs of potentially serious issues. These can range from a frayed belt to a loose bearing to a problem with the ignition assembly. If there’s any other sound than air flowing from the vents, call for help before your heater breaks down.

Poor Air Quality

If your home is dustier than usual, no matter how much you clean, the furnace blower may be malfunctioning. Reduced air pressure can let dust settle in air ducts, which then gets re-circulated around your home. You’ll notice dust on surfaces and on the vent grates. Various contaminants, including mold and mildew, may also circulate. If not fixed, this heating problem can increase the risk of respiratory illness.

The Carbon Monoxide Alarm Goes Off

Don’t assume the carbon monoxide (CO) alarm is malfunctioning. It’s designed to detect a colorless, odorless gas that can cause serious illness or death. Hearing the alarm is an urgent sign you need heating system repair, but first, leave your home immediately and then call your local HVAC company to figure out the problem and fix it. A common cause of a CO leak is a cracked heat exchanger.

Unusual Odors In Your Home

A persistent burning odor (other than when your heater first turns on for the season) can indicate a serious problem, while a smoke odor can mean your chimney is blocked. Plastic odors can mean a component is failing. However, a rotten egg odor is the most concerning; it signals a natural gas leak (due to a compound added by the gas company). Evacuate your home immediately and call for help.

How Much Does a Heating System Repair Cost?

It can cost a few hundred to over $1,000 to fix a heating system, depending on the type of unit, what is wrong with it, and the extent of the damage. Parts and labor costs also factor in.

When Should I Replace My Heating System?

If your furnace is over 15 years old, has been fixed several times recently, and is inefficient, consider replacing it. The cost of repairs is also a consideration. If compared to buying a new unit, fixing your heater costs more than half that expense, it’s time for an upgrade.

Contact Grasshopper Heating & Cooling

Our team of qualified professionals can provide any type of heating system repair. We’re always upfront with pricing and offer free estimates. Additionally, Grasshopper is committed to your satisfaction and helping prevent further costs. All your repair options will be explained before moving forward, and a heating failure or breakdown will be fully addressed to restore comfort, safety, and efficiency. For high-quality heating repair near Clifton Park, NY, you can reach us 24/7 at (518) 252-7937.