Can An Electrician Install a Mini Split System?

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Not typically, but certain electricians may handle mini-split systems. You can always call and ask a local electrician.

DIY Mini Split Installation

Mini split systems, like the Votano system from Frigidaire, are energy-efficient and use heat pump technology to provide heating and cooling for your house. Ductless mini split systems, which are the most prevalent type of mini split system, can save money over installing a regular air conditioning and heating unit that requires ductwork. Ductless mini split systems are ideal for heating and cooling bedrooms, home offices, additions, finished attics, and garages. Mini split AC systems, which only cool the air, are a popular option. This article shows you how to install a small split air conditioner in your house.

Ductless mini split systems need to be serviced in a similar manner to central air conditioners. Refrigerant lines and making high-voltage electrical connections are required for ductless mini split systems. Some jurisdictions require that these types of HVAC services be carried out by specialists. Check with your local code official about necessary licensing and permit requirements before you begin. Installation instructions may differ depending on the manufacturer, so check the manual that comes with your unit for more specific information about wiring a micro split system.

A condensing unit outside the home, an air handler within the house, refrigerant tubes connecting the components, and electric cable to power the units are all necessary elements of a DIY mini split installation. Because the refrigerant line must be sliced and then charged, expert installation is required for ductless mini split systems. It’s possible to install the air handler and condenser unit on your own, but you’ll need help with the refrigerant line.

It’s not difficult to perform a liquid line with your hands, but the DIY mini split systems come pre-charged and don’t need the assistance of a specialist. These ductless mini split systems are intended to change the temperature in just one room rather than across a wide area of square footage. This article will show you how to install a ductless mini-split system in your house or business.

Choose a mini split system that is appropriate for your area before you begin the installation process. Here are your options:

All ductless systems are divided into two zones, unlike conventional heating and cooling systems. Single-zone ductless mini splits heat or cool one space, such as a kitchen, bedroom, addition, attic, or garage. The units feature a single air handler and condenser unit. They are the most basic systems to install, and they are also the smallest.

Dual-zone ductless minisplits are a newer type of air conditioning that functions like a split system. Dual-zone ductless mini splits utilize two air handlers and one condenser to heat or cool two separate rooms. Dual-zone mini split A/C systems and heat pumps are perfect for a home where the temperature in various rooms must be controlled.

Multi-zone ductless mini splits are used to heat or cool different rooms. Multi-zone mini splits feature a condenser unit that can accommodate several air handlers and is intended to serve separate areas. Installing micro split heat pumps on multi-zone systems may be more difficult than others, so always consult the manufacturer’s instructions when determining how to install mini split heat pumps on multizone units.

You’ll also need to select the right size mini split for your area, which will be determined by the system’s British Thermal Unit (BTU) output. The most frequent alternative for big and tiny rooms is the Klimatic thermostat, which enables air-flow management in addition to temperature adjustment. Traditional f4 ton and T2 ton mini split systems are also excellent choices for a wide range of spaces because they can provide adequate temperature control. Get precise square footage figures before you make your purchase. A mini split is a heat pump air conditioner that condenses water from humidified air. It’s important to choose the right size for your home, especially if it has recently been built or expanded. Consult the product instructions to ensure you pick a mini split with enough BTUs for the area.

Install The Indoor Unit

Choose a wall in the room to be heated or cooled that leads to the outside. Look for a space on the wall large enough for the air handler where it won’t be obstructed by furniture, such as shelves or lighting fixtures. The air handler should be at least six feet from the floor to the bottom of the unit. It’s safer not to put it in direct sunlight or near other heat sources. Excessive moisture may cause the mini split to cease operating. As a result, it will be unable to read indoor temperatures correctly. Make sure there is enough clearance between the air handler and the ceiling, as specified by the manufacturer. This wall will be used to transfer refrigerant from the indoor unit to the outdoor unit, so make sure it’s clear of obstructions.

Locate the studs. However, remember that you’ll need to drill a big hole (about 3 inches) through the wall to the outside. Examine the mounting holes on the mounting bracket. They should fall within the typical stud pattern (16- or 12-inch o/c) and compensate for the hole location so that it does not interfere with a stud. To find the studs in the area where you wish to install the air handler, use a stud Finder. They can reveal hidden elements like as studs behind walls. Check to see if there are any wires, pipes, ducts, or other potential obstructions within the wall.

Place the bracket that will secure your wall unit to the wall. Use a level to ensure that the bracket is properly aligned. This is a crucial step not only for aesthetic reasons, but also for practicality. A condensing unit that is mounted out of plumb will not drain correctly and will therefore not function as intended. Make a small, pencil mark on the wall to indicate the mounting holes.

Make a hole with a bit that is just a little smaller than the screws’ shafts. If you can’t find a stud, secure the wall bracket in place using hollow drywall anchors. Check to see whether the wall anchors are strong enough to support the weight of the wall unit.

Drilling a hole in the wall for refrigerant pipes, drain tubing, and control wires is required. This hole should be in the lower left or lower right corner based on the mounting bracket; however, it may also be in the upper left or upper right-hand corner. Some air handlers allow you to choose which side the lines will exit the unit. If necessary, consult with the manufacturer’s instructions for how to relocate them. A 2- to 3-inch hole is generally dug, but this is determined by your mini split’s lines.

Make a hole big enough to fit the diameter of the hole saw’s pilot bit out of the outside of the house, aiming it downwards modestly. This opening will help you line up the following larger hole that you’ll make with the hole saw. Drilling a 2-inch or 3-inch hole with a hole saw bit is the best method. For improved drainage, angle the saw slightly downward.

Connect the control wire to your indoor unit. Connecting the control wire is slightly different for each mini split model, but usually involves removing a back cover and manually attaching the control wire.

Unfold the refrigerant pipe, which you just drilled through the wall, and push it through the aperture. Keep the refrigerant pipe, control wire, and drainage tube connected by using electric tape.

Remove the back plate and set your indoor unit on a table. Insert the included pipes, wire, and tubing through the hole in the top of the lifting structure. The manufacturer’s hardware should be used to secure the indoor unit to the wall mount.

Install the Outdoor Unit

Select the site of your outside unit. It can be put on the ground, on a rooftop, or on an exterior wall using specialized mounting hardware. If you choose to set it on the ground, be sure it’s secured to a pad. You may build your own concrete pad, or you can buy one that is already made for this purpose.

Connect the pipes and tubing from your indoor unit to the outside unit once you’ve mounted the condenser. If you’re using DIY components that are already pre-charged, connect the cables and tubes from your indoor unit to the outdoor unit. Do not cut pre-charged lines because it is quite dangerous. Connecting these items incorrectly can cause serious burns to your skin. To properly connect them, you’ll need to follow manufacturer-specific recommendations. Before you start, make sure you have an adjustable wrench and a torque wrench on hand. If you’re installing a kit that requires the lines to be cut and then charged, bring in a professional for this job.

To keep the wires and tubing in place, attach them to the outside wall. For a nicer look, use covers.

Connect the pipe fitting to the line set on the rear of your outdoor unit. Then join the multi-conductor wiring that links the indoor unit to the outside unit. You’ll almost certainly need a torque wrench to finish this project.