A ductless air conditioning specialist in Clifton Park, NY, Grasshopper Heating & Cooling knows the top qualities of a mini-split installer. Technology requires knowledge and expertise that only some professionals have.  Ductless mini-splits provide improved comfort and efficiency and can help you save, so it’s important to find the right installer to realize these benefits. But finding the right contractor can be a challenge. Here’s what to do when picking a ductless mini-split installer near you.

Evaluate Their Experience

It’s essential to pick a licensed contractor. But not every HVAC technician specializes in ductless mini-split installation. The process is a bit different than installing a traditional central AC system. When vetting a contractor, ask what the process entails and speak to them as they inspect your home. The technician should have no difficulty explaining the process. They should also make decisions relatively quickly and note any areas of concern they see.

Statements such as “Tell me what works best for you.” or “We’ll do it your way” are red flags, as they mean the contractor may be inexperienced in this area.

Ask/Read What People Say About Them

Reading reviews may seem like an obvious step. But it’s important to know how to read into them. Star and numbered ratings are common. They tend to be accurate. However, only by reading the full review can you understand the customer’s experience, whether the company resolved any unanticipated issues, and kept the client informed the entire time. Aside from web research, ask friends, relatives, neighbors, coworkers, and others if they’ve dealt with the company.

They Seem Ready to Tackle Any Issue

If the installer doesn’t mention any issues, ask if they’ve found any. The wrong contractor may not evaluate the situation thoroughly or not be knowledgeable enough to see any problems coming. A thorough assessment helps to anticipate issues to address so the project can stay on track. 

Their evaluation also lets a contractor provide an accurate upfront quote, without asking for more money along the way. The difference can end up being thousands of dollars. An experienced ductless mini-split installer near you won’t raise such uncertainty.

The Contractor Is Focused on Meeting Your Needs

Never accept a contractor that cuts corners. They should perform a load calculation to determine the right tonnage for your home. A seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) calculation can help find a mini-split unit that’ll save you the most over time. It also helps to schedule installation in the fall or winter; the technician will have the time to be more attentive and put more effort into choosing the right system.

Discuss Price Options and Get a Written Quote

A price quote for a ductless mini-split should list the equipment used plus the cost of materials and labor. Don’t accept generalizations. Every installation is different, and the cost varies from one home to another; the price quote should fall within a range you’ve seen in your research. And make sure to sign the contract before the project starts. Some contractors leave it open so they can adjust their pricing later. Also, ask the HVAC contractor about options and alternatives, which can give you a choice of price levels.

Keep Reading: How the Cost of Mini-Split Installation Near You Is Determined

Choose Grasshopper Heating & Cooling

If you live in or near Clifton Park, NY, and are looking for ductless mini-split installers near you, you can trust Grasshopper Heating & Cooling for high-quality service. We are EPA-certified and work to ensure successful results and customer satisfaction. For fast, friendly, and professional ductless mini-split installation, schedule an appointment online or call (518) 252-7939.

Ductless mini-splits are easier to maintain than central ACs. A well-maintained unit can last up to 20 years. But like any type of HVAC system, a mini-split can develop problems. Discovering these early and scheduling prompt repairs can extend the unit’s lifespan. Here are seven signs you need to call for ductless mini-split repair to avoid even larger issues.

1. A Leak

Call for help if your mini-split has any type of leak. It could be water from the condensation that forms when refrigerant circulates cool air. If the condensate drain line is blocked, water may overflow from the drain pan. It can damage your mini-split and home as well as cause mold and odors.

The fluid can also be from a refrigerant leak. If this is the case, you may notice a sweet odor or a smell similar to chloroform. Refrigerant is toxic, so call a professional right away. Shut off your AC;  low coolant levels can severely damage it.

2. Unpleasant Odors

Aside from the smell of refrigerant, concerning odors include burning smells. These can indicate there’s a problem with the unit’s electrical wiring or insulation. Musty odors often mean the system is contaminated with mold. Your HVAC contractor can take steps to fix the problem and, if necessary, repair the unit’s wiring or clean out any mold. Preventative steps such as installing ultraviolet (UV) light purification systems can avoid future issues with mold or bacteria.

3. Decreased Temperature Control

If your ductless system isn’t producing cool air or heat, the cause can range from a clogged filter to an electrical issue to a broken compressor. A mini-split’s main purpose is to heat or cool your home. If it’s not reaching the set temperature, call a professional to determine the reason and make any necessary repairs.

4. Insufficient Airflow

Air should blow from the indoor units at a steady rate. If the airflow feels weak, there is likely a problem in the system, especially if it starts to cycle more frequently. Common reasons include faulty motors, clogged air filters, compressor issues, and air duct leaks. A lack of airflow inhibits temperature control and proper circulation and ventilation, and that can affect indoor air quality.

5. Strange Noises from the Mini-Split System

Mini-splits operate at about 40 decibels or less, which isn’t louder than a small fan. Call for help if you hear a high-pitched screaming or hissing sound, indicating the compressor is under high pressure. If you hear metal screeching, a fan motor bearing may be loose or broken. A squealing indoor unit may have a fan belt issue. If the outdoor unit is clanging, its fan may be loose or obstructed; a clicking noise can also signal an obstruction. Bubbling or gurgling sounds often originate from a condensate drain or refrigerant leak.

6. Frozen AC

A problem with a mini-split can cause it to freeze in winter or summer. Ice often forms because the evaporator coil is dirty and can’t absorb heat. Other reasons include low refrigerant, a broken blower fan, or a clogged air filter. Each of these can create other issues. For example, a clogged filter can reduce indoor air quality. Low refrigerant can burn out the compressor, while a damaged fan can break into pieces that harm other components.

7. The System Doesn’t Turn On

Whether the outdoor compressor or any indoor unit doesn’t turn on, call for help. If the issue isn’t resolved by adjusting the thermostat, switching a unit on, or flipping the circuit breaker, there’s likely a mechanical or electrical issue that needs to be fixed.

Call Grasshopper Heating & Cooling

We provide high-quality mini-split AC repair in Clifton Park and surrounding areas. If you have any issues on this list or your energy bills spike, have your ductless system checked and repaired by a professional. Our NATE-certified technicians arrive in fully stocked trucks to address the cause of leaks, low airflow, poor temperature control, loud noise, odors, and other issues. We fix all makes and models of air conditioners. Call (518) 216-0051 to request 24/7 emergency service.