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Ductless Mini-Split InstallationWicker Park, Chicago1890s Victorian Mansion

Ductless Mini-Split AC Installation in Wicker Park Victorian

Installed a 3-zone Mitsubishi ductless system in a landmark Wicker Park Victorian without disturbing original plasterwork or woodwork.

Completed: August 202460622

Ductless mini-split indoor unit mounted in Victorian home

Discrete indoor unit blends with historic architecture

The Challenge

The owners of this stunning 1890s Victorian had a common dilemma: they wanted central air conditioning, but their home had no ductwork, and they weren't willing to compromise the original plaster ceilings, crown moldings, or hardwood floors that made the house special.

Previous contractors had suggested dropping ceilings to hide ductwork or running exposed ducts - solutions that would have destroyed the home's historic character. The three-story layout presented additional challenges: the master bedroom on the third floor was unbearably hot in summer, reaching 95°F on some days.

Our Solution

We designed a ductless mini-split system that would provide powerful cooling without any visible impact on the home's historic features:

System Design: - Mitsubishi Hyper-Heating 3-zone system (MXZ-3C30NAHZ2) - One head unit for each floor (basement excluded) - Strategic placement to maximize coverage while remaining discrete

Installation Approach: - Ran refrigerant lines through existing chase from basement to attic - Used a specialized historic home line-hide system (painted to match trim) - Mounted indoor units high on walls where they blend with the architecture - Placed outdoor unit in side yard, screened by existing landscaping

Preservation Focus: - Zero penetrations through original plaster ceilings - No modifications to original woodwork or trim - No visible equipment from street (landmark district requirement) - All electrical run through existing conduit paths

Victorian mansion exterior in Wicker Park Chicago

Preserved Victorian exterior in Wicker Park

The Result

The home now has whisper-quiet, efficient cooling on all three levels - with the third-floor master dropping from 95°F to a comfortable 72°F even on the hottest days.

Key Benefits: - 3-zone independent temperature control - 26 SEER efficiency rating (45% more efficient than window units) - Quiet operation (indoor units run at 19 dB - quieter than a whisper) - Hyper-Heating capability for supplemental heat in winter

The system also qualified for a ComEd rebate of $1,200, which we helped the homeowners apply for.

“We interviewed 5 contractors and Bernie's was the only one who understood that preserving our home's character was non-negotiable. The installation is invisible, and the cooling is incredible. Worth every penny.”

Jennifer & David M.

Wicker Park Homeowners