A few years ago, a homeowner in Roxborough reached out to us just as spring was starting. Homes in Roxborough, just like others in Philadelphia, are known for lacking central AC, causing residents to rely on window units every summer. She dreaded the annual hassle of setting up window air conditioners — dragging them out of storage, cleaning them, and hoisting them into her windows. Not only did they increase her electric bill significantly, but the noise also made it difficult to watch TV or have a conversation. After reading about Daikin ductless systems on our blog, she decided it was time for an upgrade and called ECI Comfort.
Why Choose Daikin Ductless Over Window AC Units?
Window air conditioners have long been the go-to solution for homes without ductwork. They’re relatively affordable and can cool individual rooms, making them an easy option for many homeowners. However, the drawbacks — noisy operation, higher electric bills, and the inconvenience of installation and removal — often leave homeowners frustrated.
On the contrary, Daikin ductless systems provide the same room-by-room cooling but without the noise, hassle, or energy drain. These systems use a single outdoor heat pump connected to indoor air handlers, which are mounted on the wall or ceiling. This setup not only preserves window space and natural light, but also operates much more quietly. With each room having its own thermostat, you can set different temperatures in each space, and they use a fraction of the energy compared to traditional units.
Easy Ductless Mini-Split Installation in a Philly Rowhome
Installing a traditional air conditioning system in a Philadelphia rowhome can be tricky, but for this ductless project, it was a breeze. We installed four air handlers along one side of the house, connecting them with a single lineset. The air handlers were discreetly placed in the upper corners of each room to maximize air circulation while minimizing their visibility.
Since rowhomes don’t have exterior walls on the sides, we worked around this by running the refrigerant lines along the back of the house, blending them into the architecture. We even found a hidden nook near the back porch to install the heat pump, ensuring it wouldn’t take up valuable space or be an eyesore.
Year-Round Comfort With Supplemental Heat
Beyond just cooling, this Daikin ductless system also provides supplemental heat during those in-between months when it's too warm for the gas furnace but still chilly. Rowhomes tend to retain warmth, so the homeowner didn’t need much heating until winter. But with the ductless system, she can enjoy a bit of warmth on cooler fall or spring days without running her furnace at full blast.
Since the heat pump uses very little electricity, it’s an efficient way to keep her home comfortable without driving up her energy bills.
Saving on Installation With Rebates and Tax Credits
The upfront cost of installing a ductless system can seem steep, but thanks to rebates and tax incentives, our Philadelphia homeowner saved significantly. She qualified for nearly $1,000 in rebates through PECO’s Smart Energy program and Daikin. Plus, by filing IRS Form 5695, she received a federal tax credit for installing energy-efficient equipment.
Plus, with flexible financing options available through Synchrony, upgrading to a state-of-the-art heating and cooling system was more affordable than she expected.
Are you ready to stop struggling with window air conditioners and upgrade to an energy-efficient ductless system? Contact ECI Comfort today for a free consultation and learn how you can enjoy year-round comfort with lower energy costs.
If you live in the Delaware Valley/Greater Philadelphia area and would like to find comfort within your home, visit our website or give us a call at 215 - 245 - 3200 to learn more.
