Ductless Mini-split

Ductless Mini-split | Air Conditioning | Heating and Air Conditioning | Kelso

When Kelso’s fog lifts and summer sun comes pouring in, a ductless mini-split from HEP delivers pinpoint comfort without the bulky ductwork. These sleek indoor heads whisper while they work, sipping energy as they heat in the morning chill and switch to efficient air conditioning in the afternoon. With inverter technology that adjusts output in real time, you enjoy steady temperatures, healthier indoor air, and utility bills that finally make sense for Pacific Northwest living.

HEP handles every detail—from sizing and placement to same-day installation—so you can start zoning each room to its own perfect climate. Our local technicians know Kelso homes inside and out, and we back every system with generous warranties and 24/7 support. Ready to reclaim your garage, spare the attic, and feel total comfort all year long? Call HEP today and let a ductless mini-split redefine how cozy home can be.

FAQs

What is a ductless mini-split system and how does it work?

A ductless mini-split is a two-part HVAC system made up of an outdoor compressor/condensing unit and one or more indoor air-handling units. The two sections are connected by a small bundle of refrigerant lines, electrical wiring, and a condensate drain that pass through a three-inch hole in the wall. Each indoor head contains an evaporator coil and a quiet fan that delivers conditioned air directly into the room, eliminating the need for ductwork. In cooling mode, the indoor coil absorbs heat from the room and moves it outside; in heating mode, the system reverses, absorbing heat from outdoor air (even when it is cold) and bringing it indoors using energy-efficient inverter technology.

Is a ductless mini-split a good choice for Kelso’s climate?

Yes. Kelso experiences a mix of cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Modern cold-climate mini-split heat pumps are designed to provide reliable heating down to temperatures well below freezing, which fits Kelso’s typical winter lows in the upper 20s °F. During summer, the inverter-driven compressor scales its output to match the cooling load, keeping indoor humidity low without the short-cycling common to oversized central air conditioners. In short, a single ductless system can handle both heating and cooling efficiently year-round in Kelso.

How energy-efficient are ductless systems compared with traditional HVAC?

Ductless mini-splits routinely achieve Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratios (SEER) in the mid-20s and Heating Seasonal Performance Factors (HSPF) above 10, far exceeding the efficiency of most legacy central systems. Because conditioned air is delivered directly into the living space, there are no duct losses—an issue that can waste up to 30 % of energy in homes with older ductwork. Variable-speed compressors also avoid the high start-up surges and temperature swings associated with single-stage furnaces and central A/C units, further reducing electricity consumption. Many Kelso homeowners see energy savings of 25–50 % after switching from electric baseboard heaters, wall furnaces, or older central systems.

What does the installation process look like and how long will it take?

A typical single-zone installation can be completed in one day. Our Kelso installation team first helps you choose the best indoor unit location for airflow and aesthetics. We mount the indoor head on an exterior wall, drill a 3-inch access hole, and set the outdoor condenser on a pad or wall bracket. Refrigerant lines, power wiring, and the condensate drain are routed through the access hole and concealed in slimline PVC covers for a neat appearance. After pressure testing and vacuuming the line set, we release refrigerant, test system operation, and review the remote controls and maintenance steps with you. Multi-zone projects with two to five indoor heads usually take 1–2 days.

Can one mini-split system both heat and cool my home?

Absolutely. A ductless heat pump uses a reversing valve to switch between heating and cooling modes. In summer, it operates like a high-efficiency air conditioner, moving heat out of your home. In winter, it reverses the refrigeration cycle to extract heat from outdoor air and bring it indoors. Because heat pumps transfer heat rather than generate it by burning fuel, they deliver three to four units of heat for every unit of electricity consumed. Many Kelso homeowners pair mini-splits with existing wood or gas stoves for supplemental heat during extreme cold, but the mini-split can carry the load for most of the heating season.

What routine maintenance is required and do you service units in Kelso?

Maintenance is straightforward: 1) Rinse or vacuum the washable air filters every 4–6 weeks, or more often if you have pets or allergies. 2) Keep the outdoor unit free of leaves, debris, and snow build-up to ensure unobstructed airflow. 3) Schedule professional service once a year. During our annual Kelso maintenance visit, we clean the indoor coil and blower wheel, check refrigerant pressures, inspect electrical connections, flush the condensate line, and verify temperature splits. Regular maintenance preserves efficiency, prevents costly breakdowns, and keeps manufacturer warranties valid. We also offer priority repair service and affordable maintenance plans for Kelso residents.