Fitting a ductless mini-split air conditioner to a studio apartment

I attended a local technical college for my certification as a cooling specialist.

  • My first job was at the local cooling corporation, where I knew the entire a/c professional team because most were my neighbors.

Fortunately, they were keen to ensure I learned how to perform HVAC installation and air conditioner tune-up correctly. My first client on my own as an a/c worker was a client who had a studio apartment that needed a quality HVAC unit installed to help with indoor comfort. The client wanted to install an electric heat pump, but consultation with other indoor comfort business experts led me to recommend a ductless mini-split unit. The client wanted it installed just above a window which was okay and easy for a first job alone. I ensured they also got a digital thermostat to help with temperature regulation, especially since they had mentioned that they would be away for short stretches every month. It would be a waste of energy to keep the air conditioning running. Once I was done, I showed the client how to use the thermostat and take care of the unit. As a company procedure, I also scheduled the client’s first air conditioner service so they would remember. I’ve since handled more complex jobs, but the studio apartment has always been my most memorable. The tensest jobs are the emergency maintenance calls that happen in the middle of summer or winter because the clients are always so desperate for help, but in most cases, we are fewer than the number of callers. It would be easier if all the clients kept up with maintenance though that’s up to them.

central heating