When Sharada G. contacted ECI Comfort, she was searching for a solution to a common challenge: how to efficiently heat and cool her 1840s historic home in Titusville, NJ without sacrificing its architectural integrity. With no existing ductwork and outdated window and portable A/C units in place, it was time for a change.
Her winters have been heated by an aging cast iron boiler and summers cooled with window units and portable ACs, neither of which provided efficient or consistent comfort. The lack of ductwork common in older homes made installing central air systems expensive and invasive. Window units not only drove up energy costs, but also disrupted the look and feel of the historic home. Portable units cluttered rooms, and the cast iron boiler offered no zoned temperature control. Comfort was inconsistent from room to room — a common problem in homes built over 150 years ago.
The Solution: A Daikin 3-Zone Ductless Mini-Split System
Outdoor heat pump system
ECI Comfort installed a Daikin inverter-driven heat pump with R-32 refrigerant, designed for high performance and energy efficiency. The system dynamically adjusts compressor speed to match heating and cooling demand, reducing energy waste.
Zoned indoor comfort
Three wall-mounted Daikin indoor units were installed throughout the home — in the living room, primary bedroom, and second-floor bedroom. Each unit operates independently, delivering targeted comfort where and when it’s needed.
Smart controls & quiet operation
Each indoor unit features a wireless controller, and the system supports Daikin smart home integration, enabling control from a smartphone. The system runs quietly, a welcome upgrade from noisy window units.
Environmentally conscious choice
With R-32 refrigerant, the system offers lower global warming potential than traditional HVAC refrigerants. Combined with inverter technology, this creates a sustainable comfort solution that aligns with modern environmental standards.
Why Ductless Is Ideal for Older Homes
No ductwork required
Ductless systems require only small wall penetrations, avoiding the damage and reconstruction often involved in installing central ducts. This preserves the character and craftsmanship of historic homes.
Zoned efficiency
Each room can be heated or cooled independently, eliminating energy waste and ensuring personalized comfort throughout the house.
Lower utility bills
Window and portable units are among the least efficient ways to cool a home. By switching to ductless, Sharada will likely see significant reductions in her monthly energy costs — especially in the summer months.
Improved air quality
Ductless systems help filter dust, allergens, and humidity, improving indoor air quality — another benefit not offered by portable solutions.
The Result
Sharada now enjoys year-round comfort, energy savings, and modern control — all without altering the integrity of her beloved 1840s home. With ECI Comfort’s expert install and Daikin’s high-performance ductless technology, she said goodbye to noisy, inefficient equipment and hello to a system that finally fits her lifestyle and her home. Whether you live in a 200-year-old farmhouse or a 1960s rancher, ductless HVAC systems are a flexible, energy-saving solution designed to meet your home's unique needs. Contact ECI Comfort today to schedule your free consultation and discover how ductless can transform your space — without compromise.
