Gree Ducted Minisplit vs Daikin, Mitsubishi, LG, etc
Is the gree brand of duct minisplits that much worse off than the other 3 well known brands (mitsubishi, daikin, LG, Fujitsu)?
Were building a small condo building in Brooklyn, NY and Gree was significantly cheaper bid than the others. Not too concerned about oversizing as its a condo and each unit will be sold and come with a warranty in the condo book for 2 years for all HVAC related issues regardless of the units we use.
Also for the units can the duct work be the flexible or for sure it has to be rigid? We are trying to keep the 10 foot ceiling height but require the duct minisplit for the more premium look then the average wall mounts we use for the rentals.
Thanks.
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Since Gree is the #1 maker of air conditioners, by definition it is the major player. I would be more concerned about getting good local support, proper design/sizing and a quality install.
Before selecting anything you need to figure out your actual loads. My guess would be the contractor is proposing the Flexx line. The smallest Flexx is a 2ton unit, depending on how many outside walls a unit has, this would range from way to ludicrously oversized. If the building is a row house so no outside walls on the side, the oversizing would get into plaid territory.
For me the manufacture choice is not the important decision.
The big choice is the installer. A good installer will not bid equipment he can’t get to work properly. A poor installer can destroy even the finest equipment. I say visit a job site meet the installers and trust your gut.
I see flexible ductwork as a short cut and a hallmark of a low-quality install.
Flex ducts are round and will cut into your ceiling height. Sheet metal ducts can be made as rectangles that will flow more air while maximizing ceiling height. When you see rounded corners, you are looking a first-class job.
“Not too concerned about oversizing” Without a manual J calculation how can you be sure the unit is not undersized? Understand over sizing can lead to comfort issues in cooling mode.
Make sure you get a manual D calculation ducted minis as the blowers are smaller and work a lower pressure.
Walta