Should You Repair or Replace Your Ductless Systems This Winter?

A white indoor ductless mini-split unit high up on a white wall in a home.

Ductless mini-splits are becoming increasingly popular due to their efficiency, flexibility, and ability to provide both heating and cooling. These systems offer a great solution for keeping warm during the winter.

They’re especially beneficial during cold weather, when maintaining optimal performance is vital for consistent comfort. However, as with any HVAC system, ductless mini-splits can face issues over time, leaving homeowners with the tough decision of whether to repair or replace their unit.

In this guide, the comfort specialists at AIS Heating & Air Conditioning help you make the right choice for your home comfort this winter.

Signs Your Ductless System May Need Repair

Before deciding between repair or replacement, it’s important to recognize the signs of a struggling ductless system. Addressing issues early can save you time, money, and unnecessary discomfort.

Inconsistent Heating

If your ductless system isn’t providing consistent warmth throughout your home, there could be underlying problems like clogged filters, low refrigerant levels, or failing system components.

Strange Noises

Unusual sounds, like grinding, hissing, or clicking, could indicate a variety of system issues, including loose parts, refrigerant leaks, or even a failing motor.

Higher Energy Costs

When a ductless system becomes inefficient, it has to work harder to achieve the desired temperature, leading to increased energy bills. A sudden spike in your heating costs could indicate the need for repairs.

Unpleasant Odors

If you notice musty or burnt smells coming from your unit, it’s time to investigate. Mold buildup inside the system can cause unpleasant odors, while burning smells may point to electrical malfunctions.

System Age

Even with proper maintenance, aging systems are more prone to breakdowns. If your ductless system is nearing the end of its lifespan, you may start noticing frequent issues.

When to Consider Repairing Your Ductless System

Not all issues require a complete replacement. In many cases, repairs can restore your ductless system’s functionality and efficiency. Here are some scenarios where repairing your unit makes sense:

Minor Issues

Problems like refrigerant leaks, faulty thermostats, or dirty coils are often straightforward and cost-effective to fix. Addressing these minor issues promptly can extend your system’s lifespan.

Cost of Repair vs. Replacement

A good rule of thumb is to consider repairing your system if the cost of repairs is less than 50% of the cost of a new unit. For example, fixing a small refrigerant leak or replacing a fan motor is usually more affordable than investing in a new system.

Warranty Considerations

If your system is under warranty, repairing it may be your best option. Warranties often cover the cost of replacement parts and sometimes labor, reducing the financial strain of repairs.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Ductless System

While repairs can address many issues, there are times when replacing your ductless system is the smarter decision. Such cases include:

Persistent Problems

If your ductless system has recurring issues that can’t be resolved through repairs, it may be a sign of a more significant underlying problem. Continually sinking money into a failing system can end up costing more in the long run.

System Age

The typical lifespan of a ductless mini-split system is around 15 to 20 years. If your unit is approaching or exceeding this range, replacing it with a newer model can provide better reliability and efficiency.

Energy Efficiency

Advancements in technology mean newer ductless systems are more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. Upgrading to a modern system can significantly reduce your energy bills and improve comfort.

Consult with Professionals at AIS

Deciding whether to repair or replace your ductless system can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re considering replacing your ductless mini-split, AIS Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help.

Our expert technicians can guide you through the process, ensuring you choose the most efficient, reliable solution for your comfort needs. With free replacement estimates and upfront pricing, you can proceed with your ductless mini-split installation with confidence.

Schedule ductless mini-split replacement in the Bay Area by contacting our team online today.

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Why Choose AIS Heating And Air Conditioning?

When you need a knowledgeable HVAC technician to assist with your heating and cooling requests, there's no better team for the job than AIS. Our family-owned and locally operated team of certified comfort specialists goes above and beyond to deliver superior service for every project we tackle.

From our unsurpassed commitment to quality craftsmanship to our unmatched performance guarantees, you can rest assured that your comfort needs will be satisfied for the long term.

Schedule HVAC services in Livermore and Fremont by contacting our team online to book your appointment now!

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Maintenance Agreement

Keeping up with annual maintenance for your comfort systems can be a hassle, but AIS makes it easy with our Comfort Protection Plan. Through this maintenance agreement, members will receive a 23-point inspection for each of their HVAC systems along with exclusive perks like:

  • Discounts on AC and heating repairs
  • Repair warranties
  • Priority service scheduling
  • Discounts on indoor air quality services
  • And more!