Replace gas wall heater or go with a mini-split?

Question

Anyone have experience whether it is less maintance long term to replace a gas wall heater with another one like Williams brand or just go with a mini-split? I have a unit where the wall heater is ancient and not working so I got a few quotes for both and they are very similiar. The mini-split they can install for about $800 including labor and that will provide cooling and heating. I don't have much experience on owning either one as most of my units had central air.

The property I am installing it on is over 100 years old and Im not sure if the electrical was ever updated. There is still some knob and tube wiring but I also see romex but the tech for the mini-split claims it uses very low power and would just need 110v from an electrical plug inside. I think long term it'll be more attractive for a tenant but could also mean it breaking down more versus a traditional wall heater. It will be installed at coastal southern california where whether is mild and neither maybe used that often.

Amber Forkey · Answer

@David P. Following this. I just installed 3 mini-splits within the last 2 months to replace old kerosene monitors that began to need service calls every month. Know that your electric bill is going to go up but when you compare it to fuel costs, it should still be lower and more convenient for the tenant. I'd be interested to hear from folks in the colder climates as well and how the units weathered the Winter or if backup heat was necessary.

Henry T. · Answer

just my 2 cents. Gas is sooooo reliable and simple. Mini-splits the jury is still out. I know that a service call for a mini split is insane. Need cooling? let them get a window unit, they're cheap and not your problem.