what is needed to install a mini split

by Tara Osinski Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago

A mini split installation will require the following parts for a professional installation:

Mounting plate
Clip anchors
Seal
Drain joint
Wall sleeve
Nitrogen Tank
Drill
Hole Saw
Torque Wrenches
Vacuum Pump
Flare Tool
Tube Cutter
Screwdriver
Allen Wrenches
Spray-on Leak Detector
Adjustable Wrench
Digital Refrigerant Scale
R410a Manifold Gauges
Tape Measure
Line sets

More ...

Essential Mini Split Components

Line Sets. A line set is a pair of copper tubes connecting your outdoor unit to your indoor unit. ...
Line Set Adapters. ...
Connecting Wire. ...
Drain Tubing. ...
Condensate Pumps. ...
All-In-One Installation Kit. ...
Mounting Pads. ...
Branch Boxes.

More items...

Full Answer

How much does it cost to install a mini split?

Although much easier to install than conventional systems, proper installation of Mini-Split Systems DOES require specialized tools such as, but not limited to: Nitrogen tank and regulator Digital micron gauge Digital scale Quality flare block Torque wrenches (for flare nut connections) Vacuum pump ...

How much does it cost to run a mini split?

Jun 01, 2021 · How to Wire a Mini Split System. Step 1 – Mini-Split Shut-Off Box: Run a 230/208 volt or 115 volts* dedicated line from the main break box to the area where the shut-off box will be ... Step 2 – Mini-Split Wiring: Step 3 – Electrical Wire Whip: Step 4 – Mini-Split Wire Connection to Base: Step 5 – ...

How to install your own mini split in a weekend?

Local building jurisdictions will say that permits are required for installation of a mini split. Why? They say for public safety. It’s true that there are scabs that will take advantage of home owners. Permitting agencies require contractors to have licenses and …

How much does it cost to install a split system?

All mini split systems require a dedicated circuit to supply power to the system. A disconnect box is required by code to be installed near the outdoor unit and allows for a technician to shut off power to the system when performing any service or repairs. Believe it or not, a non-fused disconnect box is preferred over fused.

What is required to install a mini split?

DIY mini split installation requires a condensing unit outside the home, an air handler inside the home, refrigerant lines to connect the units and electrical wire to power the units. Most ductless mini split systems are installed by a professional because the refrigerant line must be cut and then charged.

What are the electrical requirements for ductless mini split?

Mini-splits have particular power requirements that are dependent on the model and size. Generally, most systems need 220 volts or higher, but a few of the 9k to 12k systems may only need a 110-volt service. The breaker panel needs to be sized correctly.Jul 13, 2020

What size breaker do I need for a mini split?

You need a minimum 25 amp breaker for mini split systems up to 24,000 BTU/2 tons. A 30 amp breaker is sufficient for 36,000 BTU/3 ton systems, and a 50 amp breaker meets requirements for larger units to 60,000 BTU/5 tons. All the details follow.Apr 27, 2022

Can I install a mini split unit myself?

Mini split systems are easy to install and are perfect for DIYers. You'll save money by not hiring a contractor and you can complete the installation on your own timetable. Ductless mini split systems are easier to install than other air conditioning systems.

Do mini splits require 220?

Depending on the size and model, mini splits have specific power requirements. Some small 9k - 12k BTU systems may require a 110-volt service, but most will require 220 volts or more.

Can you plug a mini split into an outlet?

A 110v mini split AC is typically wired to an AC disconnect and then into the breaker box. However, many have simply wired it directly into a standard outlet receptacle, or even to a standard plug, to plug into a receptacle as a standard appliance, and without any AC disconnect.Dec 19, 2021

Do you need 200 amp service for mini split?

Typically, you will need between 15 and 45 amps per mini split. That is about 110 to 120 volts on the low end and 208 to 240 volts on the higher end. Anything that runs on amps must have a circuit to prevent amp overload. This would cause your circuit breaker to trip and your power to go out.Jun 24, 2020

How do you wire a mini split?

Part of a video titled Wiring a Mini Split System, Step by Step! - YouTube

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And you have high-voltage wires inside as well as your low-voltage communication wire heading intoMoreAnd you have high-voltage wires inside as well as your low-voltage communication wire heading into the indoor unit. And that needs to be shielded when it's outside and exposed like that.

How many square feet can a mini split cool?

One of the most often installed sizes is a 12,000 BTU mini-split. This will heat and cool approximately 450–550 square feet, or about the size of a studio apartment.Mar 19, 2021

Do mini splits have to be on an outside wall?

The indoor units do not need to vent through an exterior wall, so ductless splits are a good option to cool rooms with no windows and no exterior walls. A ductless split system also provides more temperature control because each indoor unit can be set independently from the other units.

How long does it take to install mini split?

But for those skilled professionals, installing a ductless mini split is usually a fast job that will go without complications. The average installation job takes one or two days. The actual length depends on the size of the system, in particular how many indoor air handlers need to be mounted inside the home.Mar 11, 2015

How long do mini splits last?

10 to 30 years

Ductless mini-splits – Like heat pumps, ductless mini-splits can provide both heating and cooling, with a typical life span of 10 to 30 years, except in coastal areas.Jan 29, 2018

Difficulty: Advanced

Mini split systems utilize the latest heat pump technology to provide heating and cooling for your home. The most common type of mini split system, called a ductless mini split, can save money over choosing a traditional air conditioning and heating unit that requires ductwork.

ductless mini splits

DIY mini split installation requires a condensing unit outside the home, an air handler inside the home, refrigerant lines to connect the units and electrical wire to power the units. Most ductless mini split systems are installed by a professional because the refrigerant line must be cut and then charged.

How do I install a mini split?

Installing a mini split system can be divided into 3 parts: Install the indoor unit. Install the outdoor unit. Connect refrigerant piping from the indoor unit to the outdoor unit. Before you begin the installation process, it’s essential to have a few key tools and parts on hand.

Can wind affect mini split?

From knocking the unit over to disrupting the condenser fan, you want to make sure that wind gusts do not have a negative impact on your mini split.

Can a mini split be the focal point of a room?

You may not be too keen on having your mini split be the focal point of the room. In that case, choose a location that’s as inconspicuous as possible. Installing the unit at a proper height will make it less noticeable than if you were to install it at a lower height.

Do you need to insulated all refrigerant lines?

All refrigerant piping — including connections, service valves, and elbows — should be completely and correctly insulated with closed cell pipe insulation. To prevent heat loss or heat gain through the refrigerant piping, all refrigerant piping including liquid and vapor lines should be insulated separately.

Full Project Video

Wanna see how it all came together? Check out the full project video below and don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube so you won’t miss future videos!

What Size Mini Split Should you Buy?

Below, I have put together what I think are appropriate sizes for each of the units. However, these sizings are based on ideal conditions and there are a lot of other variables that should be considered.

Conclusion

Honestly, I was a little intimidated when I got started. The wiring freaked me out a little because I had never installed a breaker before and the overall process was totally new to me so I was learning as I go. That being said, there’s really not much to it. After the install, I was amazed by just how easy it was.

Do mini splits have installation instructions?

While most mini split systems have similar operating characteristics, it is absolutely IMPERATIVE that the installation instructions specific to the piece of equipment you’re installing, are obtained prior to installation and read through thoroughly. Often, an installation manual is as much of a legal document as it is a technical reference, thus all cautions and warnings must be in here to for your personal safety.

Can mini splits be installed anywhere?

A mini-split system can add year-round comfort to any home, and they can be installed just about anywhere. Check out these installation best practice tips. 1 / 14.

What is split system?

Simply put, a “ Split System ” is a heating and air conditioning system, which has two main components, the indoor unit and outdoor unit. The indoor unit absorbs heat energy in the cooling mode, and the outdoor unit rejects the very heat absorbed by the indoor unit. The cycle is repeated until the set temperature is met. Although the indoor and outdoor units are located in physically different “split” locations, they are connected and operate as, one system, continuously circulating refrigerant liquid and vapor by means of interconnecting, dehydrated copper refrigerant lines, commonly referred to as a “Line Set”.

Do wall mounted units require a gravity drain?

Most wall-mounted units require a gravity type drain, where other unit types (cassette, ceiling or floor mount) may incorporate a factory installed condensate pump or provide the option for a field supplied condensate pump. Figure out where the condensate drain will go BEFORE installing the indoor unit.

How high should a thermostat be mounted?

If a thermostat (aka “remote”) is to be mounted on the wall for sensing the room temperature locally, it should be mounted on an inside wall, approximately 5 to 5 ½’ feet above the floor. Keep it away from any source of heat gain, such as direct sunlight, a coffee pot, or in the path of the supply air. 9 / 14.

Can mini splits be topped off?

Mini-Split Systems require a critical refrigerant charge, therefore cannot be “topped off” as conventional split systems can. The investment of installation efforts to ensure a leak free system will avoid costly call backs! If a Mini-Split System leaks refrigerant, the entire refrigerant charge must be recovered, and weighed back in using a digital scale. (This of course, after the leak has been fixed) The majority of leaks can be traced back to less than ideal flare connections made during installation. Therefore, a maximum effort during installation to ensure a leak free system will contribute to operating efficiency and system longevity-just what your customer paid for. In order to properly pressure test the refrigerant lines, use of nitrogen is required along with a regulator capable of introducing up to 600 pounds of pressure, PSIG. Most mini-split manufacturers will require a pressure test in the 500 to 600 PSIG range, up to a 24-hour duration. Here again, the manufacturers Installation Manual will provide the prescribed pressure test details, so don’t bypass this critical step!

Is a mini split system a direct air conditioner?

Mini-Split system installation falls within the direct category of air conditioning installation. Although much easier to install than conventional systems, proper installation of Mini-Split Systems DOES require specialized tools such as, but not limited to:

What is a mini split system?

Mini split systems require a dedicated electrical line into the building’s electrical panel.

How many volts does a mini split need?

Some small 9k - 12k BTU systems may require a 110-volt service, but most will require 220 volts or more.

What is ductless mini split?

Ductless mini splits are one of the most popular and energy-efficient choices for homeowners and businesses. This “split” system consists of an outdoor unit containing the condenser and compressor, and the indoor unit which supplies the conditioned air. Although they are easier to install than central air conditioning, ...

What is a connecting cable?

Also known as 4-conductor cable, connecting cable is electrical wire that supplies power and carries control information between the indoor unit (s) and the outdoor unit. Typically, connecting cable is run through conduit in accordance to local codes.