Quality service and proper installations not only enhance customer satisfaction but also boost referrals and sales. To ensure your customers maximize the benefits of their ductless systems, it's crucial to adhere to installation best practices and educate homeowners. Remember, this blog is designed to complement, not replace, the manufacturer's specifications. Always follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions and comply with building code requirements.

Before you begin the process of physically installing the system, there are a couple of things you need to make sure are ticked off first.

When planning to install a ductless heating and cooling system, start by reviewing the current heating and cooling system location and layout with your customers. Take into account factors like occupancy, usage patterns, and the local climate to ensure the ductless system functions optimally as the primary source of heating and cooling in the home. If the home has an electric furnace, evaluate whether it serves as the best backup heat source or if other backup options might be more suitable. This careful consideration will ensure your customers get the most out of their new system.

When setting up the outdoor unit, you should ensure that the unit is set up on a stable, level surface, and that adjustable risers are implemented to make sure that debris and snow build up will not interfere with the system’s operation.

When connecting the unit to the risers, and any mats or surfaces also used, you should always make sure that the unit is secure. This can be done with the help of bolts or strong adhesives.

For the refrigerant tubing, it is essential to create new flares using an appropriate R410A flaring tool and measurement gauge. Avoid using manufacturer-provided tubing flares and fittings. Make sure to apply refrigerant oil to the end of each flare before connecting the tubing. Use the R410A nuts supplied with your outdoor unit and tighten them according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

When it comes to the refrigerant charge, adjust it only if necessary, as most installations do not require any adjustments. Gauges are not needed to verify refrigerant levels. If adjustments are necessary, use a scale when adding or removing refrigerant. Always consult the manufacturer’s installation manual to verify refrigerant protocols and ensure you are following the correct procedures.

In addition to our previous points, installers should be aware that proper insulation is crucial for the efficiency of the ductless system.

Insulation must cover the entire line set length to avoid condensation and decreased efficiency. It is important to protect the outdoor line set from insulation damage by using code-approved line set protection. Any penetrations through the shell of the home must be sealed with an insulative sealant. If the installation process disturbs any existing insulation, ensure it is returned to its original or better condition to maintain the home’s energy efficiency.

In the event of having to install a ductless heating and cooling system in an area that often is hit with a cold climate, there are a few considerations you should have.

When installing the outdoor unit, avoid placing it along pathways, as freezing discharge can become a slip hazard. To prevent defrost discharge from freezing inside the compressor, you can use a pan heater. Additionally, wall-mount brackets can be used to maximize clearance under the outdoor unit, allowing for easy drainage and reducing the buildup of snow and ice. Following these best practices will help ensure a safe and efficient installation in a cold climate.

Along with offering callbacks and providing referrals, it is also valuable to provide your customers with useful and simple maintenance advice. For complex fixes, a professional should be called, but emphasizing the cleaning and basic maintenance requirements will help the customer ensure that the system operates to a high level for a long time.

The homeowner should also be provided with the necessary literature, including the operation manual, which you can give a brief overview of when installing the system, answering any customer questions.

For any further enquiries into ductless heating and cooling systems , you can contact your local branch to ask any questions you may have. Alternatively, you can email the RSL Online Sales team , and your query will be passed on to the relevant department