A ductless mini split air conditioner is a convenient and efficient type of air cooling system that suits homes and spaces without requiring ductwork that a traditional HVAC system requires. The mini split system can efficiently cool large spaces, and is relatively easy to install with a bit of construction know-how.
To install a mini split system, you will need to install the indoor unit and the outdoor condenser unit separately, and connect them through a copper tubing that will allow refrigerant to circulate around the cooling system. One condenser unit can connect up to five indoor units to cool multiple rooms. Here's how you can install a mini split system yourself:
Ductless Mini-split Installation: A Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Read the Installation Manual, and Inspect Your Unit
First, familiarize yourself with the instruction manual of your new mini split system. The owner's manual should have an installation guide that will walk you through the step-by-step process of installing your particular unit. Inspect your unit as well to ensure all parts are present, and that there are no chips or cracks in your unit.
Step 2: Gather Your Materials
Gather your materials. You will need a set of gloves, a drill, screwdrivers, wire cutters, wire strippers, and an adjustable wrench among others. Having a good set of tools on hard will help make the installation work easier, and remove the hassle of having to look for your tools mid-installation.
Step 3: Choose a Spot for Your Indoor Units
Choose a prime spot where you will be installing your unit. The general rule is to choose a spot that is at least 6 feet off the ground, and located near a working power socket. The wall must be stable enough to drill through, as well as spacious enough to allow proper air circulation to pass around the unit.
Step 4: Secure the Mounting Bracket
Align the mounting brackets, and secure them into the wall using screws. Test the brackets to see if they can hold the weight of the unit securely by gently but firmly tugging on the brackets. If you feel even a slight loosening of the screws, you will need to tighten the mounting brackets further.
Step 5: Create a Hole in the Wall for Refrigerant Lines
Drill into the wall diagonally below your unit. You will need a hole big enough for your refrigerant lines, drain hose, and copper wiring to pass through. Angle the hole outwards for condensation to properly flow out of your unit.
Step 6: Loop the Drain Line and Refrigerant Line through the Walls
Secure the drain line, refrigerant line, and copper wiring together using electrical tape, and loop it through the hole in the wall to the outside. You may need to secure your mini split unit on the brackets to be able to do this.
Step 7: Make the Multi-conductor Wiring Connections
Refer to your installation manual for the correct connections, and secure the correct wiring color to the electrical board of your mini split systems. Use the wire stripper to expose the wires, and tightly loop them around the electrical connections to secure them in place.
Step 8: Install the Outdoor Unit
Elevate on a Pad
Next, install the outdoor unit. Place a large pad for your condenser unit to sit on outside the wall where your indoor unit is connected. This pad must be heavy and sturdy enough to carry the weight of the outdoor unit as you will be drilling the outdoor condenser unit on this pad.
Secure the Foothold
Secure the outdoor unit in place by drilling screws through the foothold of the unit. Your outdoor unit should have pilot holes to drill through. Simply center your outdoor unit on the large pad, and screw it in place by drilling the foothold.
Step 9: Connect the Copper Lines and Drain Hose
Connect the copper lines and drain hoses of the outdoor unit and the indoor unit. You may need an adjustable wrench at this step. Your copper lines may contain pressurized air in it, which is normal especially for new units, so don't worry about the sudden sound that comes out upon decompression.
Step 10: Install the Wire Covers
Wire covers provide insulation and protection from the outdoor elements, and are good to install on the exterior wall for proper mini split installation. Drill the wire covers in, and place the copper lines and drain hose into the wire covers. Snap the covers in place to secure them, and to protect your AC lines from heat and rain.
Step 11: Connect the Outdoor Unit to the Copper Lines
Connect the outdoor unit to the copper lines, following the same multi-conductor wiring guide as the one in the indoor unit. Refer back to your manual to make sure you're making the correct connections.
Step 12: Contact a Professional
At this step, you will need to contact an experienced and licensed HVAC professional to finish the job. They will test out the units, and finish the electrical connections for you. They will also top up your unit with refrigerant, and do a full inspection of your unit to make sure everything is properly installed.
Contact Luce Aircon for a full installation procedure for your mini splits! Our technicians are well-versed in installing mini split systems, so you can be sure we can get the job done right. We also provide consistent maintenance and cleaning services to keep your unit durable, so you can enjoy the cool breeze longer!
How to Install a Mini-split Video Guide
Need a visual guide? Here's a comprehensive video guide for the step-by-step installation process for a mini split air conditioner. While it may seem complicated, it is a good idea to understand the process in installing a mini split unit in your home.
FAQs
1. Can I install a mini split air conditioner by myself from start to finish?
Unless you're a licensed HVAC technician, no. While you can do the first steps of the installation process yourself, you will need to contact an aircon technician to finish the job as they would have the proper tools to tackle the task. They also have the experience to do the job right, and can inspect your unit for any signs of improper installation.
2. How much electricity does a mini split system use?
This depends on the size, model, and type of mini split system you have. Inverter types use less electricity in the long run, as it uses energy-saving processes to keep your room cool at a lower power consumption. Still, the bigger and more powerful the unit, the more energy it needs to consume to keep your room adequately cool.
3. Is installing a mini split by myself worth it to save money?
If you have done some handiwork before, then yes. Installing a mini split air conditioner yourself will save you the costs of professional installation. You will only need to contact and pay for the latter parts of the installation, which will still require professional services.
However, improper installation can cost you in the long run as it can damage your unit, and shorten its useful life. Avoid the complications with an improperly-installed mini split unit, and contact us at Luce Aircon for cost-effective, but efficient services that will make your mini split installation a breeze!
Make your AC installation hassle free, and give us a call today to schedule your installation session!
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