Philadelphia’s Old City is well-known for its charming row homes, many of which date back to the early 20th century. While these homes have a historic allure, they often come with a significant downside: staying comfortable during the region's humid summers. Many older row homes lack central air systems, leaving residents reliant on bulky, inefficient window units to beat the heat.
For the new owner of this 1920s row home, which already had a gas-fired water boiler and cast-iron radiators for heat, finding a better cooling solution was a top priority. Having dealt with the hassle of window units in the past, he was ready for a change—and he knew exactly what he wanted: a Mitsubishi ductless system.
Why Mitsubishi Electric Ductless Units Were the Perfect Choice
The homeowner had prior experience with Mitsubishi ducted and ductless mini-split systems in his previous home and knew their ability to deliver reliable, efficient heating and cooling without the need for traditional ductwork.
Ductless systems are ideal for older homes where installing ductwork would mean tearing into walls or ceilings, compromising the integrity of the home’s design. These systems can also be paired with smaller ducted systems, often run through crawl spaces or attics, for even more versatility.
In this case, the Mitsubishi Hyper-Heat heat pump system allowed us to provide the perfect balance of ducted and ductless functionality.
The Installation
In neighborhoods like Old City, where outdoor space is limited, the placement of HVAC equipment requires creative solutions. For this project:
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Outdoor Unit: The main condenser was installed discreetly on the roof, keeping it safe and out of the way.
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Indoor Units: Two mini-split units were installed—one in the laundry room and another in the attic space above the stairwell. These locations allowed for short duct runs to strategically placed vents, ensuring efficient air distribution throughout the home.
Benefits of a zoned comfort system
One of the standout features of the Mitsubishi Hyper-Heat system is its flexibility. The homeowner now enjoys separate zones of comfort, fully adjustable at the touch of a button. This zoning capability means:
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Pinpointed Heating and Cooling: The homeowner can customize temperatures in different areas of the home without wasting energy on unused spaces.
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Year-Round Comfort: Whether it’s cooling during a hot summer day or adding a touch of heat on a chilly fall morning, the system provides on-demand comfort.
Additionally, the system works in harmony with the existing gas boiler and radiators. While the boiler remains available for whole-home heating during the winter, the new heat pump offers a quicker, more energy-efficient option for smaller heating needs.
Efficiency meets comfort
The Mitsubishi heat pump system delivers superior comfort while reducing energy costs. Window air conditioners, while common in older homes, are notoriously inefficient and expensive to operate. By switching to a ductless system, the homeowner will enjoy lower energy bills and a more environmentally friendly solution.
Best of all, there’s no need to deal with the seasonal headache of installing and removing window units—or sacrificing window views to accommodate them.
Conclusion: A Timeless Home with Modern Comfort
This 1920s row home now has a heating and cooling solution that matches its charm and character. Thanks to the Mitsubishi Hyper-Heat system, the homeowner can enjoy year-round comfort, lower energy bills, and a home that’s ready for anything Philadelphia’s unpredictable weather brings.
If you live in an older home and are looking for a better heating and cooling solution, contact ECI Comfort today. Our team specializes in designing customized systems that meet your needs while preserving the integrity of your home.
ECI Comfort specializes in installing Mitsubishi Electric Heating and Air Conditioning Systems in Delaware Valley. If you are interested or would like to know more, click the button below or reach us at (215) 245-3200 or info@ecicomfort.com!
