Upgrading Heating System with Mini Split Lineset
Challenge: In Easton, PA, a seven-unit apartment building relied on a central steam boiler, managed by a single thermostat located in the stairwell on the second floor. This outdated system provided limited temperature control, leaving tenants unable to adjust the heating to their preferences and often dissatisfied with the shared temperature settings.
Solution
Murray Heating and Contracting undertook a retrofit project to modernize the heating system. They replaced the centralized boiler with individual heat pumps for each unit, granting tenants full control over their heating and cooling.
The retrofit involved:
- Installation of Seven Independent Heat Pump Systems: Each apartment received its own heat pump with a dedicated thermostat for personalized climate control.
- Exterior Modifications for Connections: Exterior wall penetrations were made to accommodate mini split lineset, drain hoses, and communication wiring.
- Use of Innovative HVAC Accessories: Murray Heating utilized Inaba Denko America’s Paircoil mini split lineset and Slimduct SD in Ivory to ensure an efficient and visually clean installation. The Paircoil linesets simplified handling and installation, while the Slimduct channels concealed and protected the lines for a professional finish.
Technical Highlights
- Paircoil Lineset: These linesets were routed through the exterior walls. The factory-prepared bare copper ends, without flare fittings, minimized preparation work, saving time and ensuring better customization during installation. The added insulation provided robust support, particularly during bends and in concealed spaces.
- Slimduct SD Lineset Covers: Used to enclose the refrigerant lines, communication wiring, and drainage pipes. The ivory color matched the building’s aesthetic, and the covers protected system components from external elements like weather, enhancing durability.
Outcome
The project significantly improved the tenants' living conditions:
- Individual Climate Control: Each tenant can now enjoy full autonomy over their own apartment's temperature.
- Enhanced Efficiency: Replacing the centralized boiler eliminated inefficiencies caused by shared heating systems.
- Streamlined Installation: The use of products like Paircoil and Slimduct SD simplified installation while ensuring a clean and professional appearance.
Contractor’s Perspective
Bob Murray of Murray Heating and Contracting praised the tools and products used:
"It was very easy to use the product because of the way the two linesets were together. The insulation provided extra support for bending inside of the Slimduct. Not having to remove the insulation and having that support made the installation process smooth. I also like the additions to Inaba Denko's product lines—they offer many solutions that streamline the job."
Key Takeaways
This case study highlights the benefits of upgrading from a centralized heating system to decentralized heat pumps in residential buildings:
- Improved tenant comfort through independent temperature control.
- Simplified installation using advanced HVAC products.
- Enhanced system reliability and aesthetics.
Project Information
- Location: Easton, PA
- Building Type: Residential, multi-unit
- Project Type: Existing building retrofit
- Contractor: Murray Heating and Contracting
For inquiries about similar retrofits, contact:
Murray Heating and Contracting
Bob Murray
📞 484-560-3576
🌐 murrayhvacr.com
