Ductless Mini-Split Installation & Repair in Orange County
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 4.97/5 stars • 5,000+ Satisfied Families • Licensed CL#998956
Ductless mini-split installation, repair & maintenance from Orange County's trusted HVAC contractor since 2014
5,000+
customers served
4.97 / 5
average rating
100%
customer satisfaction
10+
years experience
No ductwork? No problem. Mini-splits deliver heating and cooling exactly where you need it - without tearing open your walls or ceiling.
J Martin Indoor Air Quality installs, repairs, and maintains ductless mini-split systems across Orange County. Whether you're adding climate control to a garage conversion, an ADU above the shop, a room addition that never got connected to the main system, or an older home that was built before central air existed, a mini-split is often the smartest solution.
We've installed hundreds of ductless systems in Orange County homes since 2014. Our technicians are factory-trained on Mitsubishi, Daikin, and Fujitsu equipment - the three brands that consistently outperform the competition in efficiency, reliability, and noise levels. When you call (714) 462-4686, you'll talk to Kathryn or Alexis at our Anaheim office. They'll schedule a free consultation, and one of our technicians will assess your space, recommend the right configuration, and give you exact pricing before any work begins.
A mini-split isn't a compromise - it's the right tool for the job. When a room doesn't have ductwork, forcing ducts in is expensive and disruptive. A ductless system gives you better comfort with less construction.
The J Martin Team
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Highly Recommend J Martin for Mini-Splits
"J Martin is an excellent, small, family company with very good people. Every contact I had with them was friendly, helpful and professional, from the initial visit by Jack to the installation of my mini split by Irvin and Kevin. They are clearly honest, well-run, and take care of their customers. I highly recommend them!"
Laguna Hills Customer -
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Independent Heating/Cooling Units in My 1947 Home
"I hired J Martin to install independent heating/cooling units in my 1947 home. They provided a consultation and recommended the best units for my needs. I'm BEYOND satisfied with the product and service provided. J Martin was well priced, very informative with my questions, provided an incredibly friendly installation team, and went above and beyond to follow up and confirm I was happy with my purchase. Do not look elsewhere, this is the standard of customer service and professional air installation."
Mark T. - Ladera Ranch, CA -
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A Fantastic Job for an Extremely Fair Price
"Had our A/C replaced along with the ducting, and new insulation. We even went with a single system that was zoned (2) to save on power a bit (why have the A/C on upstairs when you're downstairs, and vice versa). They did a fantastic job for an extremely fair price and to top it off they were professional, clean and courteous."
Matthew K. - Yorba Linda, CA
Why Orange County Homeowners choose J Martin for Mini-Split Installation
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We don't install bargain-bin mini-splits from online wholesalers. J Martin is trained and authorized to install Mitsubishi, Daikin, and Fujitsu - the three ductless brands with the best track records for efficiency, quiet operation, and longevity. Our technicians understand the specific installation requirements, refrigerant handling, and commissioning procedures each manufacturer requires to validate the warranty.
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A mini-split installation isn't as simple as picking a unit and bolting it to the wall. The outdoor condenser placement affects noise levels, efficiency, and serviceability. The indoor unit location determines airflow patterns and how evenly the room heats and cools. Refrigerant line length affects performance. We design the entire system layout, including line routing, condensate drainage, and electrical requirements, before we start drilling.
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Mini-split installation requires only a 3-inch hole through the wall for refrigerant lines, drain, and wiring. No ductwork demolition. No ceiling tear-outs. No weeks of construction. Most single-zone installations are completed in 4-6 hours. Multi-zone systems typically take one to two days. We protect your floors, patch any drywall, and clean up when we're done.
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After installation, we vacuum and pressure-test the refrigerant lines, charge the system to manufacturer specifications, and run it through a full heating and cooling cycle. We verify airflow, check electrical connections, and calibrate the remote or wall controller. This commissioning process is what separates a quality installation from the kind that causes problems six months later.
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Every J Martin technician carries our CA Contractor License #998956. We're bonded, insured, and every crew member passes a background check. We pull all required permits and schedule inspections so your installation is fully up to code.
Mini-Split Installation in Orange County
A ductless mini-split system consists of an outdoor condenser/compressor unit connected to one or more indoor air handlers via small refrigerant lines. Each indoor unit operates independently with its own thermostat, giving you room-by-room temperature control without any ductwork.
This makes mini-splits the ideal solution for spaces that central HVAC can't reach - or where extending ductwork would be impractical or too expensive.
How Mini-Split Installation Works
The process starts with a free in-home consultation. We assess your space, discuss your heating and cooling needs, and recommend the right system configuration. During installation, we mount the outdoor condenser on a pad or wall bracket, position the indoor unit(s) for optimal airflow, and connect them with refrigerant lines routed through a small 3-inch opening in the wall.
We handle all electrical work, including running a dedicated circuit from your panel to the outdoor unit. Condensate drain lines are routed to prevent water damage. After the physical installation, we vacuum the lines, charge the refrigerant, and commission the entire system. We test heating mode, cooling mode, fan speeds, and verify the remote or wall controller is functioning properly. Permits are pulled and inspections are scheduled as required by Orange County code.
Single-Zone vs. Multi-Zone Systems
Single-zone systems use one outdoor unit connected to one indoor unit. They're designed to heat and cool a single room or open space. This is the right choice for a garage conversion, a single room addition, a home office, or one problem room that's always too hot or too cold. Installation is straightforward and typically completed in half a day.
Multi-zone systems use one outdoor unit connected to two, three, four, or five indoor units. Each indoor unit operates independently, so you can keep the bedroom at 68 while the living room runs at 72. This setup is ideal for whole-home ductless solutions, larger ADUs, or homes where multiple rooms need independent climate control. Multi-zone installations typically take one to two days.
Indoor Unit Types
Wall-mounted units are the most common. They're installed high on the wall, distribute air efficiently, and are the most affordable option. This is what most Orange County homeowners choose.
Ceiling cassette units are recessed into the ceiling for a sleeker look. They distribute air in four directions and are nearly invisible once installed. Good for rooms where wall space is limited or aesthetics matter.
Floor-mounted units sit near the floor against a wall. They work well in rooms with large windows or limited wall space, and they're easier to access for filter cleaning.
Concealed duct units are hidden above the ceiling and connect to short duct runs. They're invisible from the room and ideal for homeowners who want ductless efficiency without visible equipment.
Mini-Splits for ADUs, Garage Conversions & Room Additions
This is where mini-splits really shine. Orange County's ADU boom has created massive demand for independent heating and cooling in accessory dwelling units, garage conversions, casitas, and bonus rooms. A mini-split is almost always the best choice for these spaces.
Why Mini-Splits Are the Go-To for ADUs
Running ductwork from your main HVAC system to a detached or semi-detached ADU is expensive, disruptive, and often impractical. It also means your main system has to work harder, potentially shortening its life and increasing your utility bills. A mini-split gives the ADU its own independent system - separate thermostat, separate energy use, separate comfort.
For Orange County ADU projects, here's what we typically recommend based on size and layout:
Studio ADU (under 400 sq ft): Single-zone wall-mounted unit, 9,000-12,000 BTU. Handles heating and cooling for the entire space. $3,500-$5,500 installed.
One-bedroom ADU (400-600 sq ft): Single-zone wall-mounted unit, 12,000-18,000 BTU. One unit is usually sufficient if the layout is open. $4,000-$6,000 installed.
Two-bedroom ADU (600-1,000 sq ft): Two-zone system with separate units for the living area and bedroom(s). $6,000-$9,000 installed.
Large ADU or casita (1,000+ sq ft): Three-zone system for independent control in living area, master bedroom, and second bedroom or office. $8,000-$12,000 installed.
Garage Conversions
Garages are notoriously hard to climate-control. They're typically uninsulated, have concrete slab floors, and weren't designed for human comfort. A mini-split handles the job efficiently because it doesn't rely on ductwork that would need to be built from scratch. We recommend insulating the garage walls and ceiling before installation for maximum efficiency - and we can coordinate that work if needed.
Room Additions
If you've added a bedroom, office, sunroom, or bonus room, running new ductwork to connect it to your existing system is often the most expensive part of the project. A single-zone mini-split eliminates that cost entirely and gives the new room independent temperature control.
Problem Rooms
Every Orange County home has one: the upstairs bedroom that's 10 degrees hotter than the rest of the house in summer, or the back room that never gets warm in winter. These rooms have airflow problems that central HVAC can't solve without major ductwork modifications. A mini-split delivers conditioned air directly into the room, bypassing the ductwork entirely.
Types of Mini-Split Systems
Mini-Split Repair in Orange County
Mini-splits are reliable systems, but they have unique components that require specialized diagnostic knowledge. The inverter-driven compressors, electronic expansion valves, and communication boards in modern ductless systems are different from what you'll find in a standard central AC unit. J Martin technicians are trained to diagnose and repair all major mini-split brands.
Common Mini-Split Problems We Fix
Mini-split not cooling or heating? Most often caused by low refrigerant from a slow leak, a dirty or frozen evaporator coil, or a failed inverter board. We check refrigerant pressures, inspect the coils, and test the electronics to isolate the problem.
Blinking lights on the indoor unit? Mini-splits communicate errors through LED blink codes on the indoor head. Each brand uses different codes. We carry diagnostic tools for Mitsubishi, Daikin, and Fujitsu that read these codes and pinpoint the component that's failing.
Water dripping from the indoor unit? Almost always a clogged condensate drain line. Algae and dust build up in the drain pan and line over time, especially in Orange County's warm climate. We clear the blockage, flush the line, and treat it to prevent recurrence.
Mini-split making unusual noises? Clicking sounds during startup and shutdown are normal (the refrigerant flow is reversing). But persistent buzzing, rattling, or grinding indicates a problem - usually a loose fan blade, failing compressor bearing, or vibrating refrigerant line.
Mini-split running but not reaching temperature? Could be an undersized unit for the space, dirty filters restricting airflow, low refrigerant, or the outdoor unit struggling due to debris or restricted airflow around the condenser.
Remote control or wall controller not responding? Try replacing the batteries first. If that doesn't work, the issue may be the infrared receiver on the indoor unit, a faulty controller, or a communication error between the indoor and outdoor units.
Outdoor unit not running? Check the circuit breaker first. If power is on, the issue could be a failed compressor, bad capacitor, faulty control board, or a wiring problem between the indoor and outdoor units.
Mini-Split Repair Cost in Orange County
| Repair Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Condensate drain line cleaning | $100 - $250 |
| Refrigerant leak detection and repair | $200 - $600 |
| Refrigerant recharge | $250 - $500 |
| Capacitor replacement | $150 - $350 |
| Inverter board replacement | $400 - $1,000 |
| Fan motor replacement | $250 - $600 |
| Compressor replacement | $1,000 - $2,500 |
| Control board replacement | $300 - $800 |
| Thermostat/receiver repair | $100 - $300 |
We provide upfront pricing on every repair before work begins. If the repair cost exceeds 50% of what a replacement system would cost, we'll tell you honestly and help you weigh your options.
Mini-Split Brands We Install and Service
Not all mini-split brands are equal. The compressor technology, noise levels, warranty coverage, and long-term reliability vary significantly between manufacturers. Here's what we recommend based on thousands of installations and repairs across Orange County.
Mitsubishi Electric
Mitsubishi is the industry leader in ductless technology. Their Hyper-Heating (H2i) models maintain full heating capacity down to -13F - overkill for Orange County, but it means the system never struggles on cold nights. Mitsubishi units are among the quietest on the market (as low as 19 dB for the indoor unit - quieter than a whisper). SEER2 ratings up to 33.1 on select models. 12-year compressor warranty when installed by a Diamond Contractor.
Best for: Homeowners who want premium performance, whisper-quiet operation, and the longest warranty. Higher upfront cost but exceptional long-term value.
Daikin
Daikin is the world's largest HVAC manufacturer and a pioneer in inverter technology. Their mini-split systems offer excellent efficiency (SEER2 ratings up to 24+), reliable performance, and competitive pricing. Daikin's unique advantage is their proprietary refrigerant technology and the widest range of indoor unit styles - wall mount, ceiling cassette, floor mount, and concealed duct options.
Best for: Homeowners who want top-tier efficiency with more indoor unit style options than any other brand. Strong mid-to-premium positioning.
Fujitsu
Fujitsu offers some of the best value in the ductless market. Their systems deliver strong performance and efficiency at a price point below Mitsubishi and Daikin. Fujitsu's Halcyon line features compact indoor units with good SEER2 ratings and reliable inverter compressors. Their wireless LAN adapter lets you control the system from your phone.
Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners who still want quality. Great choice when you need multiple zones and cost matters.
Mini-Split Brand Comparison
| Feature | Mitsubishi | Daikin | Fujitsu |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max SEER2 (single zone) | Up to 33.1 | Up to 24+ | Up to 28+ |
| Noise level (indoor) | As low as 19 dB | As low as 19 dB | As low as 22 dB |
| Max zones per outdoor unit | Up to 8 | Up to 5 | Up to 5 |
| Indoor unit styles | Wall, ceiling, floor, ducted | Wall, ceiling, floor, ducted | Wall, ceiling, floor, ducted |
| Compressor warranty | 12 years | 12 years | 10 years |
| Smart home compatible | Yes (kumo cloud) | Yes (Daikin One) | Yes (wireless LAN) |
| Cold climate heating | H2i down to -13F | Down to -4F | Down to -5F |
| Price range (installed) | $$$ | $$ - $$$ | $$ |
We also service and repair LG, Samsung, Carrier, and other ductless brands, even if we didn't install them.
Mini-Split vs. Central Air: Which Is Right for Your Home?
This is the most common question we get, and the honest answer is: it depends on your home and what you're trying to accomplish.
When Central Air Makes More Sense
If your home already has ductwork in good condition, central air is usually the most cost-effective way to heat and cool the entire house. One outdoor unit, one air handler, one thermostat. It's simpler and less expensive per square foot of conditioned space. Central systems also filter all the air in your home through one location, which is better for whole-house air quality.
When a Mini-Split Makes More Sense
Mini-splits win when ductwork doesn't exist, is in bad shape, or can't practically reach the space you need to condition. Specific scenarios where a mini-split is the better choice include homes built before central air was standard (many Orange County homes from the 1940s-1960s), ADUs and detached structures like casitas or pool houses, garage conversions where there's no duct connection, room additions where extending ductwork would cost $3,000-$8,000 on its own, multi-story homes where the upstairs is always too hot, and zoned comfort where family members want different temperatures in different rooms.
Can You Use Both?
Yes, and many Orange County homeowners do. Your central system handles most of the house, and a mini-split provides independent comfort for a problem room, addition, or ADU. This hybrid approach is often the most practical and cost-effective solution.
Mini-Split Maintenance in Orange County
Mini-splits require different maintenance than central systems. There's no furnace filter to swap and no ductwork to clean, but the indoor and outdoor units need regular attention to maintain efficiency and prevent breakdowns.
What Mini-Split Maintenance Includes
Filter cleaning (homeowner task, every 2-4 weeks): Mini-split filters are reusable mesh screens that slide out of the indoor unit. Rinse them under warm water, let them dry, and slide them back in. This takes 5 minutes and is the single most important thing you can do to keep your system running well. Dirty filters force the unit to work harder, reduce airflow, and can cause the evaporator coil to freeze.
Professional deep clean (annually): Over time, dust, mold, and biofilm accumulate on the evaporator coil, blower wheel, and drain pan inside the indoor unit. This buildup can't be reached with a simple filter wash. Our technicians disassemble the indoor head, apply specialized coil cleaner, clean the blower wheel, flush the condensate drain, and reassemble everything. This service restores airflow, eliminates musty odors, and keeps the system running at peak efficiency.
Outdoor unit maintenance (annually): We clean the condenser coils, check refrigerant pressures, inspect electrical connections, tighten fittings, and clear any debris around the unit. In Orange County, dust and leaf buildup from Santa Ana winds is a common issue that restricts airflow to the outdoor unit.
System performance check (annually): We verify heating and cooling output, check for refrigerant leaks, test the inverter board and compressor operation, and confirm the remote or controller is communicating properly with all units.
Mini-Split Maintenance Cost in Orange County
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Single-zone annual tune-up | $150 - $250 |
| Multi-zone tune-up (2-3 heads) | $250 - $450 |
| Multi-zone tune-up (4-5 heads) | $400 - $600 |
| Deep coil and blower cleaning (per head) | $150 - $300 |
| Condensate drain flush (per head) | $75 - $150 |
Our maintenance plans cover mini-split systems. Members get annual tune-ups, priority scheduling, and discounted repair rates. Learn more about our HVAC Maintenance Plans.
Mini-Split Installation Cost in Orange County
Single-Zone Mini-Split Cost
| System Size | Typical Cost (Installed) |
|---|---|
| 9,000 BTU (small room, up to 300 sq ft) | $3,000 - $4,500 |
| 12,000 BTU (standard room, 300-500 sq ft) | $3,500 - $5,500 |
| 18,000 BTU (large room, 500-800 sq ft) | $4,500 - $6,500 |
| 24,000 BTU (open space, 800-1,200 sq ft) | $5,000 - $7,500 |
Multi-Zone Mini-Split Cost
| Configuration | Typical Cost (Installed) |
|---|---|
| 2-zone system | $6,000 - $9,000 |
| 3-zone system | $8,000 - $12,000 |
| 4-zone system | $10,000 - $14,000 |
| 5-zone system | $12,000 - $16,000 |
What Affects the Price
Number of zones: Each additional indoor unit adds $2,000-$3,500 to the total, including the unit, refrigerant line, and labor.
Brand: Mitsubishi is typically 15-25% more than Fujitsu for comparable systems. Daikin falls in between.
Indoor unit style: Wall-mounted units are the most affordable. Ceiling cassettes and concealed duct units cost more due to the unit itself and additional installation labor.
Line set length: Standard installations use 15-25 feet of refrigerant line. Longer runs (for detached ADUs or units far from the outdoor condenser) add cost for materials and labor.
Electrical work: Most mini-splits need a dedicated 220V circuit from the electrical panel. If your panel is full or needs upgrading, that's additional work.
Accessibility: Second-floor installations, tight attic spaces, or difficult outdoor condenser placements add labor time.
Rebates and Tax Credits for Mini-Splits
Mini-splits that qualify as heat pumps (which most do, since they provide both heating and cooling) are eligible for federal tax credits of up to $2,000 under the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit. Southern California Edison and SoCalGas also offer utility rebates for qualifying high-efficiency systems. Manufacturer rebates run seasonally. We identify every rebate you qualify for and help you claim them.
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The whole process was phenomenal
“We were very impressed by the professional work done by the technicians. The whole process of diagnosis, scheduling, and system replacement was phenomenal. We enjoyed working with J Martin. They brought us back to comfort.”
QUN Y. - CERRITOS, CA
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Extremely Professional. On time. Courteous.
“Worked wonders on my system. Provided all options up front and explained everything before doing any work. Absolutely the best experience possible. Extremely excellent in every way!”
TROY M. - FULLERTON, CA
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Their Reputation Made J Martin the Clear Choice
“Jared's knowledge and attentiveness set them apart. His crew was prompt, respectful, and professional throughout demo and installation. Their reputation, expertise, and commitment to customer satisfaction made J Martin the clear choice.”
NATALIE P. - YORBA LINDA, CA
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Couldn't Have Asked for a Better Experience
“They did a fantastic job for an extremely fair price. Professional, clean and courteous. The installation team was friendly and answered all my questions while they worked on the system. Couldn't have asked for a better company.”
KAYLEIGH L. - TUSTIN, CA
Frequently Asked Questions - Mini-Splits in Orange County
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A single-zone mini-split typically costs $3,000-$7,500 installed, depending on the BTU capacity and brand. Multi-zone systems range from $6,000-$16,000 depending on the number of indoor units. We provide free in-home consultations with exact pricing.
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Yes, in most cases. Mini-splits use inverter-driven compressors that adjust output to match demand, rather than cycling on and off like a traditional AC. They also eliminate duct losses, which can account for 20-30% of energy waste in central systems. Individual zone control means you're only conditioning rooms you're actually using.
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A single-zone system takes 4-6 hours. A multi-zone system (2-3 units) takes one full day. Larger systems (4-5 units) typically take two days. This includes all electrical work, line routing, mounting, and commissioning.
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Yes. All the mini-splits we install are heat pump systems that provide both heating and cooling. You switch modes with the remote or wall controller. They're extremely efficient at both in Orange County's climate.
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With proper maintenance, mini-splits last 15-20 years. The key maintenance tasks are cleaning the filters every 2-4 weeks (you can do this yourself) and scheduling an annual professional tune-up to clean the coils, blower wheel, and check refrigerant levels.
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Modern ductless systems are among the quietest HVAC equipment available. Indoor units typically operate at 19-32 dB, which is quieter than a library. Outdoor units run at 46-60 dB, comparable to a normal conversation. Mitsubishi and Daikin are the quietest brands we install.
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We don't recommend it. Mini-split installation requires handling refrigerant (which requires EPA certification), evacuating and pressure-testing the line set, running electrical circuits, and commissioning the system. Improper installation voids the manufacturer warranty and can cause refrigerant leaks, compressor failure, or electrical hazards. Most manufacturer warranties also require installation by a licensed contractor.
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A single outdoor unit can typically support 2-8 indoor units depending on the brand and model. Mitsubishi outdoor units can handle up to 8 zones. Daikin and Fujitsu typically support up to 5 zones per outdoor unit. Each indoor unit operates independently with its own thermostat.
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No. That's the whole point. A mini-split connects the outdoor condenser to the indoor unit(s) through a small 3-inch hole in the wall. No ductwork is needed. This is why mini-splits are ideal for homes without existing ducts, ADUs, garage conversions, and room additions.
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For premium performance and the longest warranty, we recommend Mitsubishi. For the best value, Fujitsu offers strong performance at a lower price point. Daikin sits in between with the widest range of indoor unit styles. We help you choose based on your specific needs and budget.
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Yes. Mini-splits that function as heat pumps (which includes all models we install) qualify for federal tax credits of up to $2,000 under the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit. Additional utility rebates from SCE and SoCalGas may also apply.
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For a whole-home solution, a multi-zone mini-split system can replace central AC entirely. This works especially well in homes under 2,000 square feet or homes without existing ductwork. For larger homes, many homeowners use a hybrid approach: central system for the main house and a mini-split for the ADU, addition, or problem room.
Mini-Split Service Areas in Orange County
J Martin provides ductless mini-split installation, repair, and maintenance throughout Orange County and surrounding areas.
Aliso Viejo | Anaheim | Anaheim Hills | Brea | Chino | Chino Hills | Corona | Coto de Caza | Diamond Bar | Fountain Valley | Fullerton | Irvine | Ladera Ranch | Laguna Hills | Laguna Niguel | Lake Forest | Mission Viejo | Newport Beach | Orange | Placentia | Rancho Santa Margarita | Santa Ana | Trabuco Canyon | Tustin | Villa Park | Yorba Linda
Don't see your city? Call (714) 462-4686. We likely serve your area.
Inquire Today
Ready to Add Comfort Where You Need It Most?
Whether you're building an ADU, converting a garage, solving a problem room, or replacing window units with a real system, a mini-split is likely the right answer. J Martin has installed hundreds of ductless systems across Orange County since 2014. We're licensed (CL#998956), insured, factory-trained on Mitsubishi, Daikin, and Fujitsu, and every consultation is free.
Call (714) 462-4686 to talk to our team directly, or fill out our contact form and we'll get back to you within a few hours.
Related Services
Air Conditioning Services: AC Installation & Repair | Central Air
Heating Services: Furnace Repair & Installation | Heat Pumps
Heat Pump Services: Heat Pump Installation & Repair
Air Quality Services: Indoor Air Quality | Duct Cleaning
Efficiency Services: Insulation | Whole House Fans
Maintenance: HVAC Maintenance Plans