Many people do not install their own split air conditioner. This type of project is one that some people can do, but others prefer to hire a professional to do the installation work. If you do decide to hire someone for it, you can either look for an experienced handyman, or someone who has the tools, patience, and ability to see the project through to success.

The good news is that split air conditioner installation is not all that complicated if you do decide to do the work yourself. Here is the basic process you will follow to install your split air conditioner:

• Locate where you will place the wall mounted unit. Choose a space by keeping in mind that the outdoor component it is hooked to needs to be a in an area that does not get a lot of traffic or has minimal dust.
• Once you do that you will drill a 3-inch hole that leads to outside, where the other component will come together with the piping.
• Next you will secure the mounting plate on the wall that will be used for mounting the indoor component. Be sure to use the appropriate bracket for the split air conditioner you have purchased.
• At this point the pipes will be connected from the indoor component to the outdoor one, using the 3-inch hole that has been cut.
• Secure the indoor unit to the mounting bracket you have installed on the wall.
• Next you will go outdoors and match up the area you chose on the other side of the wall from where you just mounted the other component.
• Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s warnings regarding the space that your split air conditioner needs on all sides. For example, it will likely need to be placed 30 cm away from the home, yet need 60 cm of space out in front of it.
• Place the component on the ground, secure the pipes, and fasten all the cables and clamps.
• Be sure that the outdoor component is securely in place.

Once you have completed each of the steps necessary to install your split air conditioner you are ready to bleed the unit, insulate the piping and joints, and seal the hole. It is important that the installation process for your split air conditioner be done correctly to ensure that it works the way it is supposed to, and so that it does not interfere with the warranty. If you have questions or feel you are not qualified to install the split air conditioner you should opt for hiring experienced help for the project.

Mini-Split Air Conditioner Usage

For years people around the world have been making the switch to the mini-split air conditioner, and for good reason. They offer a lot of benefits over other types of units. Being a ductless air conditioner they offer the advantage of not having to use ducts throughout the building. It is estimated that 20-30 percent of all the heating and cooling is lost right in the ducts as it is traveling from room to room. This means that a lot of energy, and money, is being wasted.

Mini-split air conditioners are sometimes referred to as ductless air. They are helpful when it comes to saving both energy and money. They also offer better climate control throughout the home or commercial building. Before buying any type of mini-split air conditioner it is best to do a little comparison, just to ensure that the unit you select ends up meeting your needs, as well as your expectations.

Sizing Up Air Conditioners

As you look around at the various types of air conditioners, including the mini-split air conditioners, you may think that they are all the same. After a while they seem to offer and do the same thing and it seems as though you could pick one by throwing a dart at pictures on the wall. But as you can imagine, that is not the best route to take.

There are some things you should look for when choosing a mini-split air conditioner to purchase, including:

• Warranty. The mini-split air conditioner you choose should come with a warranty. The warranty lets you know that the company stands behind its product. Look for a mini-split air conditioner that offers a five year warranty on the compressor, as well as a year’s warranty on the parts. This should help you feel comfortable knowing that the unit is well built and is going to last for a while.
• Reputation. The company you purchase the mini-split air conditioner from should have a solid reputation with the public. If they have a good reputation then you can rest assured knowing it not only offers quality air conditioners, but it also stand behind the products.
• Energy efficiency. One of the main advantages of using a mini-split air conditioner is that it uses less energy. Be sure that the one you are considering states that it does save energy. In turn, that will save you money. Look for the ENERGY STAR® label, so that you know it has been certified as being energy efficient.
• Competitive pricing. Compare the pricing on the split air conditioners to ensure that you are getting a competitive price. Keep in mind when buying mini-split air conditioners that they may cost more than other types of air conditioners you are considering. However, they will save you money each month, all year long, which adds up to greater savings over the life of the unit. Take that into account, because the mini-split air conditioner will save you money on a monthly basis.
• Eco-friendly. Another important benefit of using mini-split air conditioner is that they are environmentally friendly. Be sure to inquire about this with the company you are considering, such as to make sure they are using the most environmentally friendly refrigerant on the market.
• Heating option. A mini-split air conditioner should have a built-in heat pump. The heat pumps allow your mini-split air conditioner to also provide heat. This will give you the option of using one ductless unit for both your heating and your cooling.

As you compare air conditioners it is important to consider all of these items above. It is also helpful to see if the company offers any accessories for the units, such as outdoor mounts and floor mounts, just so you can get everything you need in one place. Another item to consider is customer service. You want to be able to get your questions answered, making it important that the company provide good customer service. Once you have considered these items for your mini-split air conditioner you should be ready to move forward and reap the rewards of making the switch to this type of air conditioner.

Air Conditioner Tax Credits

Before you run out and purchase any mini-split air conditioner or split air conditioner, it is important to know that not all of them meet the requirements for a federal tax credit. But the good news is that there is plenty of ENERGY STAR ones that do. ENERGY STAR air conditioners are those that carry the government label that backs the notion that the particular product is energy efficient. By having an ENERGY STAR mini-split air conditioner you will be saving energy and spending less money throughout the year for your heating and cooling.

Some mini-split air conditioners qualify for a federal tax credit because of The American Tax Payer Relief Act of 2012. While it is also known as the ‘fiscal cliff bill,’ the extension of it came into effect on January 1, 2013. The tax credit incentive runs through December 31, 2013.

This act provides for people receiving federal tax credits for purchases such as air conditioners. The same tax credit applies to heat pumps, so if you will be replacing or purchasing a heat pump keep that in mind. You will want to make sure you choose a heat pump that qualifies for the tax credit. Here are the requirements that must first be met in order to get the federal tax credit on an air conditioner:

• Not all ENERGY STAR air conditioners automatically qualify for a federal tax refund. Keep this in mind when deciding on which model to purchase. Always inquire to find out if the mini-split air conditioners you are considering qualify, and if so, how much you can expect to get back.
• For existing homes that are the principal residence they can qualify for a 10 percent federal tax credit. The amount ranges from $50-300. This one does not apply to new construction or rental properties.

Getting the Tax Credit

The federal tax credit for your mini-split air conditioners is dependent upon having a SEER split system of ≥ 16, or an EER ≥ 13. The SEER is the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, and the higher the number the more efficient it is. The EER is the Energy Efficient Ratio, and again the higher the number the more efficient the unit is. The higher efficiency is going to use less energy and save you money in the long run.

Once you have made sure that the mini-split air conditioners you are purchasing qualify for a tax credit the next thing to do is apply for it. How you apply for the mini-split air conditioner federal tax credit depends on which tax form you use to file your taxes. When filing your 2012 taxes you will use the following:

• For products purchased in 2012, use Form 5696.
• If you are filing a 1040 Individual Tax Form you will enter the tax credit on line 52, which is the residential energy tax credit.
• Form 5696 will be submitted with your other forms when you file your taxes.
• Always save your purchase receipt and the Manufacturer’s Certification Statement. Save this with your other records for seven years in case it is ever needed.

 Making the Purchase

Being able to get a federal tax credit on the mini-split air conditioner is a great incentive to make the purchase this year. While the above tax form and credit applying information is for filing your 2012 taxes, the same process will be followed next year, when filing your 2013 return. Therefore, if you purchase a mini-split air conditioner or heat pump during 2013 you will want to follow the same procedures as above in ensuring yours qualifies, saving the documentation, and filing the for the federal tax credit when you file your tax year.

Mini-split air conditioners, sometimes referred to as ductless air conditioners or split air conditioners, are efficient and high quality. They provide the heating and cooling that you need, for both residential and commercial properties, but save you money, are environmentally friendly, and offer better zone climate control. The federal tax credit just adds one more great reason to choose a mini-split air conditioner!

You may be thinking about central air conditioning, but this can often be a costly. Regardless of whether it is a commercial or residential property, the installation costs associate with central air conditioning can be enormous. More and more people are turning towards split or ductless air conditioners, as an affordable and effective way to cool and heat their homes and offices.

Why Go Ductless?

Split air conditioners are available in a variety of models, some offering lower efficiency at a cheaper price, while others offer the added benefit of Energy Star Certification. It all depends on your needs, but often spending a little more upfront can save you thousands over the lifespan of your air conditioner.

One thing to remember is that a ductless air conditioner or split unit is as permanent as a central air conditioner. While the price can often be a fraction of that of a traditional central system, they can provide the same powerful cooling, and are ultimately a permanent solution. It’s important that you select an ductless system that will provide you with the best possible solution in both the long and short-term.

What to Look Out For

Some important things to look out for when checking out a split air conditioner are the following:

• SEER Rating
• Energy Star Certification (Keep Long-term Energy Costs Down!)
• Cooling/Heating Options
• Warranty

Making sure that your air conditioner is Energy Star certified, can often mean average savings of a few hundred dollars in a year. It all adds up over the long-term use of your air conditioner, and over 10 years, you can save thousands!

Generally for an air conditioner to meet Energy Star requirements, it will likely require a SEER rating above 18. This usually means that your air conditioner is the most modern and most efficient technology.

What should you be looking for when buying an air conditioner? Regardless of whether it is a split air conditioner, ductless, window, or even central, you simply need to keep you eyes open for the Energy Star Seal. If a product carries the Energy Star logo, then you know it is efficient and a cost-saver in the long-run.

The SEER Rating may be one of the most important considerations when purchasing an air conditioner, regardless of its type. Whether its a split air conditioner or a central air conditioner, the SEER Rating will help to indicate the overall efficiency and energy usage of an air conditioning unit.

If you are looking to buy an air conditioner and energy efficiency is your primary concern, the SEER Rating should be your baseline. Air conditioner manufacturers have generally been upping the overall SEER ratings year by year, and Energy Star continues to raise its standard.

Current models should generally be in the 21+ SEER range, in order to be eligible for Energy Star Certification. Older models can still be considered, however models in that are SEER 13 to SEER 16 are generally not as efficient as more recent air conditioners.

The benefit of high SEER rating can often be hundreds of dollars during the operation of your air conditioner. You will likely see ductless air conditioners selling for a few hundred dollars, however; the energy consumption by these units will likely exceed the initial costs savings.

So whether you are environmentally conscious or just conscious about your wallet, the higher the SEER, the higher the savings!

Cleaning Filters

One of the easiest things you can do is clean your air conditioners filters on a regular basis. Dust and debris can clog your filters, reducing the efficiency of your air conditioner and reducing the air quality entering your home. Simply remove your air conditioners front face, by following your manufacturers instruction manual, and clear out any dust and debris lodged in the filters.

Protecting the Outdoor Unit

Protecting your the outdoor unit of your air conditioner can help prevent maintenance issues in the future. If you haven’t installed your air conditioner yet, and live in a climate that is subject to harsh winters, elevating your air conditioner can help protect it from water and snow buildups. Make sure water doesn’t pool up around the outdoor unit of your air conditioner and she’ll run like she’s brand new for years.

Use Auto Functions

Might sound silly, but using auto-functions and timers can not only help you reduce energy costs, but can also reduce strain on your air conditioners compressor. Setting the air conditioner to turn on shortly before you come home can help you reduce costs and keep your air conditioner running well for years!

The new introduction helps bring Senville into a new market segment, attracting both low-cost and premium buyers. Senville has segmented their product line, making the LETO Series a low-cost, entry level split air conditioner.

While Senville has primarily been a manufacturer of ductless, Energy Star only products, this latest venture introduces a new product, likely to attract wider clientele. For clients and customers looking for a more premium product, the AURA Series allows Senville to offer a Energy Star Certified unit, with the added benefit of a SEER Rating up to 23.

The LETO Series in particular, will allow Senville to significantly expand its existing distribution network. Currently, Senville has distribution centers in the United States and Canada, with dealers throughout the 50 States.

Senville has been in operation since 2001, Q1, Q2, Q3 reports for 2012 indicate the largest percentage growth in revenue since the company’s inception. The expansion of the company’s product line is representative of the profitability, growth, and corporate reinvestment.

The brand continues to capture a small portion of the market when compared to major competitors; however; in roads have been made to solidify the brands positioning and credibility.

Demo models of the Senville LETO and AURA Series will be available at trade shows during 2013, and full-details and specifications can be requested directly from the company.

For more information and inquiries please visit http://senville.com or contact us directly at 1-800-242-4935

The ENERGY STAR® label has begun to shape the electronics and appliance market by raising the industry standard of sustainability and environmental consciousness.

At Senville, we recognize that the growing importance of the ENERGY STAR® label is not solely the growth of a marketing tactic, but rather, that it is a measurement of something deeper. We believe the world is moving in a direction towards heightened consciousness of our actions and our environment.

We believe that the manufacturer has an integral role in perpetuating this continued evolution of the industry in a direction of greener technology, without being forced to sacrifice the product’s quality.

Our 2012 line of Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps are all ENERGY STAR® certified so that you, the customer, can rest assured our products are meeting the highest industry requirements for environmentally friendly appliances.

At Senville, we are proud that our air conditioners have a SEER of 19, six times the SEER of 13 required for an ENERGY STAR® certification. We consider this an indication that Senville is not concerned with the bare minimum for the sake of appearances, but rather that we are truly committed to our products’ quality, already miles ahead of industry standards and those of our competitors.

Senville’s Mini Split Air Conditioning units are also certified by the Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute. In certain states, customers who purchase AHRI products are eligible for tax credits (contact us for more info). AHRI certification is another badge of honor worn by Senville’s Ductless Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps, further testifying to the quality and reliability of our products.

Senville’s 2012 air conditioning line models include the 9000 BTU Ductless Air Conditioner and Heat Pump, the 12000 BTU Ductless Air Conditioner and Heat Pump, the 18000 BTU Ductless Air Conditioner and Heat Pump, the 18000 Dual Zone BTU Ductless Air Conditioner and Heat Pump, and the 24000 BTU Ductless Air Conditioner and Heat Pump.
Why are Senville’s air conditioning units world class?

“Our ongoing commitment is to design and deliver air conditioning products that deliver constantly improving efficiency, while never sacrificing quality,” said one of Senville’s senior executives.

Each Senville air conditioning unit offers the following features:

Inverter Technology—Inverter units gradually increase their capacity based upon the capacity needed to cool or heat a room, home or business. Inverter technology enables the units to operate at adaptable speeds, requiring less energy and thus resulting in 40% less electricity usage. This reduction in energy usage is not only environmentally friendly and cost efficient; it also extends the average lifespan of each air conditioning unit.

High Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER)—SEER ratios describe the efficiency of a given air conditioning or heating unit. Higher SEER ratios mean greater energy savings for homeowners. To receive ENERGY STAR® rating, units must achieve a SEER rating of at least 13. Using Inverter Technology, Senville air conditioning units can see SEER ratings as high as 19!

R410A Refrigerant Usage—Each Senville unit is pre-charged with R410A refrigerant, an ozone-friendly gas that offers a safe and sustainable cooling output for users. As the world continues to turn their attention toward Green products, Senville’s use of this type of refrigerant puts their Senville products at the head of the pack.

Multi-Purpose Compressors—Each Senville air conditioning unit incorporates leading Toshiba compressor technology, which enable the units to fulfill two roles; a cooling unit during the summer months and a heat pump during the winter months. With this technology, each unit can be operated year-round, offering homeowners considerable savings through versatility and improved energy efficiency.

5-Year Warranties on compressors and 1-year Warranties on parts replacement!!
Each Senville ductless air conditioning unit comes standard with an installation kit and a digital, multi-purpose LED screen. Senville air conditioning products are also ENERGY STAR® rated and AHRI certified, giving customers increased confidence in the quality of product purchased, and in the quality of air circulating within their homes or businesses.

For more information about Senville’s 2012 line of ductless air conditioning units, visit www.Senville.com.