Category: Blog
Goodman vs Trane AC Cost in Durham NC: Which Wins?
Goodman usually wins on upfront price, while Trane makes more sense when you’re willing to spend more for higher-end comfort, efficiency, and long-term ownership. That doesn’t automatically make Goodman the better buy, or Trane the better machine. Homeowners often make this comparison harder than it needs to be. A basic Goodman and a premium Trane […]
Trane vs Carrier vs Lennox AC: Best Pick in Durham, NC
If you’re comparing Trane vs Carrier vs Lennox AC in Durham, NC, you’ve probably already noticed something frustrating: every HVAC company seems to have a different favorite. The truth is less dramatic. All three make very good air conditioners. The better question is which one fits your Durham home, because our summers bring both heat […]
5 Common Ductless Errors and Maintenance Alerts to Watch
Ductless mini split systems can show early warning signs before a major breakdown. Common ductless errors are weak airflow, poor heating or cooling, water leaks, ice buildup, unusual sounds, rising energy use, frequent cycling, blinking lights and error codes. Simple maintenance can resolve some issues. However, refrigerant, electrical, compressor, sensor and communication faults usually need […]
Mini Split Maintenance: Filter Cleaning Schedule and Coil Care
Mini split maintenance keeps a ductless heating and cooling system clean, open to airflow, and ready to handle daily demand. For proper ductless mini-split maintenance, clean the indoor filters every 2–4 weeks, or every 4–6 weeks in low-use rooms. Check the indoor and outdoor coils every 3 months, and schedule a professional deep clean 1 […]
Mini Split Line Set Routing & Drainage Guide (2026)
Proper line set routing and condensate drainage depend on maintaining a consistent downward slope so water drains naturally. A minimum of 14 an inch per foot is typically maintained for reliable gravity flow. You also want to install P-traps in the drain line to stop air from being pulled in, and make sure all wall […]
Single Zone vs Multi-Zone Mini Split: Cost, Comfort & Best Choice
If you’re choosing between a single-zone and multi-zone mini split, here’s the quick answer. Single-zone systems work best for one or two rooms and cost less upfront. Multi-zone systems can handle multiple rooms with one outdoor unit, but they cost more to install. Many homeowners deal with rooms that never feel right. One is too […]
How to Strategically Place HVAC for a Noise-Free Home
Maintaining a quiet home is essential for every homeowner to enjoy a truly peaceful space. Sometimes a noisy AC can cause a lot of stress and even ruin your sleep. Mechanical sounds can be distracting for both you and your family. Personally, I recommend focusing on the placement of an air conditioner to remove unwanted […]
Sizing a Mini Split for 200-500 Sq Ft Rooms in Durham
You usually need a 6,000 to 12,000 BTU (British Thermal Unit) for a 200 to 500 square foot room. At Alternative Aire, we see many homeowners struggle with this exact choice. That’s because the right choice isn’t as straightforward. Finding the right-sized mini-split for a small space is crucial for Durham’s hot and humid summers. […]
Do Mini-Splits Properly Dehumidify in Summer?
Mini splits are widely used in 2026 for their energy efficiency, quiet operation, and room-by-room control. You expect them to keep your home cool and dry. But here’s the real question: do they actually dehumidify in summer? The answer is yes: mini splits remove humidity as they cool, through a process called latent heat removal, […]
Ceiling Cassette vs Wall Mount Air Conditioners
Deciding between a ceiling cassette and a wall-mount unit depends on your budget and home design. A wall unit saves money and lets you enjoy the quietest sleep. A ceiling unit comes with a hidden design that enhances your room’s beauty. At Alternative Aire, we help families make this decision every single day. Finding the […]
