Frequently Asked Questions
What is DuctlessWise?
DuctlessWise is an independent guide to DIY mini splits and the efficient water heaters people replace a tank with: heat-pump (hybrid) and tankless. It covers which system to buy, what it really costs, how to size it, and how to look after it, with the reasoning and sources shown. More on the About page.
Where do your numbers come from?
Capacity and efficiency figures (BTU, SEER2, HSPF2, UEF, first-hour rating) come from manufacturer spec sheets and public listings such as ENERGY STAR and the AHRI Directory. Prices carry the month and year we saw them. We do not run lab tests and never claim to.
Do you publish installation instructions?
No electrical, refrigerant, or gas instructions. We explain what a DIY mini split install involves and who does which part. The dedicated circuit and disconnect are an electrician job, gas and venting work belongs to a licensed plumber or gas fitter, and the installation manual and local code always win over anything you read online, including here.
Is the sizing calculator a Manual J load calculation?
No. The sizing calculator is a room-level screening tool built on the ENERGY STAR room sizing chart plus clearly labelled rules of thumb. For a whole house, a new build, or a system that has to carry all the heating in a cold climate, ask for an ACCA Manual J load calculation.
Do your prices and incentives apply outside the US?
The site covers the US market: prices are in US dollars, the models are those sold in the US, and incentives refer to US federal, state, and utility programs. Readers elsewhere should check local models, prices, electrical rules, and programs.
How does DuctlessWise make money?
Some product links earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you, disclosed on every page where it applies. Commissions never decide a recommendation, and there is no installer lead-generation on this site. Details in the affiliate disclosure.
Can I request a topic or correction?
Yes. Requests shape the publishing queue and corrections are welcome, especially a spec or price that has changed. Reach us through the About page.