Highwood Mechanical Contractors, Inc. serves all of CT and specializes in Fairfield County, New Haven County, and Middlesex County.
 
Unless you live in the Arctic, you rely on your air conditioner to keep you cool in the warmer months. You also probably enjoy turning on the heater whenever there is a chill in the air, but have you stopped to consider which air conditioning system you are using? Just because your system heats up or cools down your home does not mean that it is the best or most efficient solution.
 
Split ductless systems are becoming increasingly popular and for good reasons. This type of air conditioning system offers unmatched control and customizability when it comes to the temperature of your home. Keep reading to learn why you should choose a split ductless system for your home.
 
What is a split ductless system?
A split ductless system, or ductless mini-split air conditioning system, relies on an outdoor condenser to bring in air from outside. It then pushes this air through piping instead of using ducts. The goal is to provide the optimal amount of cold air to a specific room. Units are typically mounted into the wall and feature an independent thermostat.
 
Benefits of a split ductless air condition system
If you are searching for a new HVAC system or looking to upgrade your current air conditioning system, there are many reasons to choose a split ductless system for your home. We’ve compiled some of the top reasons homeowners choose a split ductless system to cool their house.
 
Easy installation
Ducts are expensive to install. Thankfully, a split ductless system relies on piping instead of ducts to funnel cold air into each room. It can take weeks for a professional team to install a ducted system, which disrupts your entire household and routine. You can have a ductless system installed and running within a single day, depending on how many indoor and outdoor units are required.
 
Customizable
Ductless systems offer unmatched customizability and flexibility. Air is delivered directly into different zones instead of being forced through ducts. A split ductless system enables you to control the temperature in each individual room of your home. There is a wall-mounted unit in every room, so everyone in your home can be comfortable at all times. Also, choosing to install a central unit allows you to regulate the temperature in your entire home from one place.
 
Cost savings
Instead of heating or cooling an entire home, split ductless systems only have to use enough energy to maintain the temperature in each room. Each temperature zone is independent of the rest, so your system does not have to work harder to regulate temperature across larger spaces. Large duct systems are prone to leaks, which waste energy and money. Also, they can become loose and result in more wasted energy. The piping used for a ductless system is considerably more cost-effective.
 
Precise temperature control
A mini ductless system is only responsible for cooling a small area of your home. The reduced burden on your AC system means that the temperature is more precise. More energy is required for systems that heat your entire home, and the results are not as precise when it comes to temperature.
 
Improved air quality
Unlike ductwork, the piping used for ductless systems does not collect allergens. Central air conditioning systems often encounter issues with air quality and can cause serious health problems in your home. Spilt ductless systems bring in clean air from the outdoors through a condenser. The air is cleaned by a network of filters and enters your home clean and allergen-free.
 
Quiet
Split ductless systems are a great alternative to window units because they are quiet. The silent operation is much different than the loud window unit. Sound from the ductless system comes from the outdoor condenser, so you do not have to deal with uncomfortable noise issues inside your home.
 
Improved aesthetics
Split ductless systems are small and unobtrusive. Their minimalist design offers impressive aesthetics, especially when compared to unsightly window units. The ductless system can easily be integrated with the décor of your home or be hidden behind furniture or decorations.
 
Split ductless system installation in Hamden, New Haven and Fairfield
​If you are interested in a split ductless system, you need a professional team to set up your system quickly and efficiently. Highwood Mechanical Contractors is the trusted service provider for HVAC systems in Connecticut, including Middlesex, New Haven, and Fairfield counties. With more than 25 years of experience, you can trust that your split ductless system will be installed and maintained by the pros. 

Highwood Mechanical Contractors, Inc. serves all of CT and specializes in Fairfield County, New Haven County, and Middlesex County.
 
You know that you should change your HVAC filters on a regular basis, but how often do you really need to go through that process? And, how easy is it to change your HVAC filter? Regular home maintenance involves a variety of tasks that we often try to push off when possible. Unfortunately, delaying changing your HVAC filter can result in additional expenses. Keep reading to learn how to change your filter for your HVAC system.
 
How often should you change your HVAC filters?
It is important to have heating and air conditioning contractors check your unit every year. They can identify issues like cracked or dry belts, gapped ductwork, or rusted components. It is best to leave these bigger issues and fixes to professional HVAC contractors. However, changing your air filter is a simple task that can be done without the help of a professional.
 
It is generally recommended that you change your filter once every three months if it is used year-round. There are also many circumstances where it may be necessary to change your filter more often depending on your usage. In some cases, you may need to change your filter once a month, including the following:

• Your unit is run six months to a year
• Pets live in your home
• Many people live in your home
• You smoke inside
• You suffer from allergies
• You have a respiratory condition
• You live in a windy area
• Your area is prone to wildfires
• A fireplace is in your home
• You live on a ranch or farm
• You keep a large garden
• Construction is happening near your home

 
There are also some instances when it is necessary to change your filter immediately, regardless of its age. A filter can be damaged in the packaging or during installation, which results in bent fins or collapsed cells. These will not work as efficiently, and you should replace the filter. If your filter is damp, it is important to change it immediately to avoid spreading airborne mold spores.
 
What materials do you need for HVAC installation?
Changing your HVAC filter does not require a lot of tools or materials, and you likely already have many of these supplies at home. It is important to locate your manual or find a copy of your HVAC manual online. This will help you locate your filter and make the process much easier. Other materials include:

• A screwdriver to remove the screws from the lid
• A container to keep the screws in a safe place while you work
• A duster, vacuum, or cleaning supplies to clean your cover
• A large trash bag to hold your old filter
• A new filter for replacement

 
Which filter should you purchase?
There are different types of filters available, and you can check your manual for guidance on selecting the right filter. The type of filter you choose will also depend on your needs and usage of your HVAC system. Some of the common types of filters include:

• Fiberglass air filters: These are affordable but have the lowest straining ability.
• Pleated filters: These are able to filter dust and pollutants, but more pleats provide better filtering.
• Washable filters: These cost more but can be cleaned instead of replaced regularly.
• Electrostatic filters: These use electrostatic charge to remove dust and particles from your home.
• High efficiency particulate air filters: These can screen up to 99.97% of contaminants and are ideal for people with respiratory issues.
• UV filters: These use UV lights to eliminate bacteria, but they do not screen dust as well.

 
What are the steps for changing your HVAC?
Once you have your materials and air filter, it is time to change out your current filter. With the help of your manual, you can change your HVAC filter in no time. Follow these steps for a smooth switch out.

1. Turn your HVAC system off to prevent air from moving while you work.
2. Locate your filter with the help of your manual.
3. Remove the screws holding your lid or filter in place. Be sure to keep these in a container so you can use them again.
4. Remove the cover if applicable and thoroughly clean it before continuing.
5. Take out your old filter and put it in a large trash bag. This will keep dust and dirt from tracking in your home. If you have a washable filter, you can still use a trash bag to take your filter outside for cleaning.
6. Reference the arrows on your new filter to properly install the new filter.
7. Write the date on your new filter so you know when it was last changed.
8. Replace the lid and screws if necessary.

 
Conclusion:
The more times you change your HVAC filter, the easier it will be. For any other issues with your HVAC system, it is important to contact heating and air conditioning contractors for support. If you are looking for premium HVAC services in Connecticut, Highwood Mechanical is your answer. Contact us today for more information on HVAC services.