If you're a homeowner, you know that installing new appliances can be intimidating. But don't let yourself feel overwhelmed! With the correct information and preparation, installing a new mini-split system doesn't have to be daunting. Let The Trade Table walk you through how long it takes to install a mini-split.
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Pre-Installation: Planning and Preparation
Before you can begin the installation process, planning and preparing for the job is important. This pre-installation step is essential to ensure the longevity and efficiency of your mini-split system.
Here's what you'll need to do:
- Make sure you have all of the necessary tools and materials. This includes ducts, a line set, an outdoor unit, control wiring, batteries, etc.
- Measure your room/space to determine what size mini split unit you need.
- Check local regulations and obtain any permits that may be required for installation.
- If necessary, consult with a professional HVAC technician to ensure that your system is properly installed and operating safely.
Installation of the Outdoor Unit
The second step in installing a mini split is installing outdoor equipment. This part will take about four to six hours, depending on your specific model and the job's complexity.
Here are some of the steps you'll need to follow for a successful installation:
- Positioning: First, you'll want to be sure that the outdoor unit is positioned properly away from trees, shrubs, decks, or patios so it doesn't become obstructed. This will ensure optimal airflow.
- Ground Prep: You'll then need to prepare the ground for mounting the equipment by marking and leveling an area that's suitable for placement.
- Secure Mounting: Finally, use mounting brackets on the side of your wall or roof and secure them with lag screws. Make sure they're anchored securely so your unit doesn't come loose during operation.
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Installing the Indoor Wall Unit
Installing the wall unit is the next step in the process to install a mini split, and it probably takes the longest. Depending on the mini-split you're installing, it could take up to six hours.
So what does it entail? Here are the steps:
- Find a spot to install your unit - Make sure your mini-split is installed in an area that won't be obstructed by furniture or other items. You'll also want to determine if there's enough space to install the unit.
- Drill a hole for electrical wires - This step involves drilling a small hole in your wall to run the electrical wires from your circuit board to your mini-split system.
- Install a condensate drain line - The condensate drain line needs to be installed from the wall unit to somewhere outside of your home, so you'll need to prepare for this first before beginning any drilling or installation work.
- Attach and secure the wall bracket - The mini-split system will require a wall bracket for mounting, so you'll need to make sure that this is securely attached to your wall before mounting and installing your unit.
- Mount and attach the indoor unit - Once everything is securely in place, you can mount and attach the indoor unit. This involves attaching all electrical wires, connecting them correctly, checking for leaks, and ensuring everything is securely fastened into place.
Connecting the Refrigerant Lines
Now comes the tricky part: connecting the refrigerant lines. This is a crucial part of the process since poorly connected lines can compromise the efficiency of your mini-split system and increase energy costs. It's best to take your time here and double-check your work.
Generally speaking, connecting the refrigerant lines should take around 3 hours, longer if you're also installing additional indoor units. Here's an overview of the steps involved:
- Cut two 8-inch long sections of flexible insulated piping to connect the outdoor unit to each indoor unit.
- Connect one side of each flexible pipe to their indoor units using the flare nut adapter and brass ferrule supplied with your Minisplit system kit.
- Secure all connections tightly with a wrench and by using Teflon tape on screw threads for extra tightness and leak prevention.
- Connect both pipes between the outdoor unit and each respective indoor unit by using four flare nuts—two on each side—and again secure all connections tightly with a wrench.
- Fit a gage port connected to a vacuum pump on one side of the outdoor unit to remove air from both pipes before connecting them to their respective indoor units.
- Install a control wire between all connected units (indoor and outdoor)
- Connect all units by plugging them together using either low-voltage cables or connection valves, depending on the model type.
- Open valves slowly from each indoor unit
- Measure suction pressure at both ends after closing both valves.
- Adjust the charge rate according to manufacturer-specific instructions.
- Check the function of all units after the charge rate adjustment is complete
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Connecting the Drain Line
A drain line is a pipe that runs from your indoor unit to the outdoors and collects condensation from the air conditioner during operation. This moisture is then discharged into an appropriate drain or container outdoors.
Setting up the Drain Line
Installing a mini split with a drain line requires several steps:
- Measure and cut the piping for the length you need using PVC piping materials
- Attach an elbow joint to one end of the piping.
- Connect one end of the pipe to your indoor unit using sealing tape and clamping it tightly.
- Make sure to use Teflon tape on all of your threaded fittings.
- Connect the other end of the pipe to your outdoor unit.
- Place a cap on the open end of your PVC line.
- Seal all connections with silicone caulk.
- Finally, check for any leaks by running water through each fitting.
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Testing, Sealing, and Insulating the System
Testing
The first step is to connect the indoor and outdoor units with electrical wiring and refrigerant lines. Once everything is connected, make sure that the electrical wiring is correct and that the level of gas pressure is properly set. Finally, test the system with a multimeter to make sure it's in proper working order.
Sealing and Insulating
Once the testing is done, you'll need to seal and insulate your ducts and piping with non-flammable insulation materials. This will help your mini-split system run more efficiently by keeping air leaks at a minimum. Additionally, it'll be necessary to reduce noise levels from the fans of your indoor units.
After sealing and insulating your system, you're almost ready for final assembly! Depending on how complex your installation is and whether you encounter any issues along the way, this process should take no more than two hours.
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How Long Does It Take To Install A Mini Split
Installing a mini-split is a major undertaking, and it can take any average homeowner at least a full day or two to complete the process. It's not a job to be taken lightly, as numerous steps require extensive knowledge and skill, and it's important to get it right.
