Where Should I Install My Ductless Mini Splits? Let's discuss this. Ductless mini splits are becoming a more popular choice these days, especially in new construction.
Minis provide near-infinite versatility when it comes to installation, allowing lots of flexibility regarding where the units go.
I Got a Mini-Split, Where Do I Put It?
Mini-splits take up significantly less space than their central air counterpart because they don't use ducts. How much space you can save going from ducted to minis is a case-by-case basis since every residence is different. It depends on how much ducting you require, but either way - mini splits save you an immense amount of room and are perfect for remodels.
Ductless mini installation is a great DIY project for anyone since they generally don't involve much construction or renovation. All you need is basic HVAC knowledge, and electrical and plumbing skills, and voila! You have heat.
Let's look at all the installation possibilities your ductless mini provides!
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Where to Install My Ductless Mini-Split
We'll assume you've already sized your situation and have the mini split you need (single, dual, multi). You can install either the outdoor or indoor unit(s) first, but you may want to figure out the units' location and connection lines before you begin drilling. Essentially, you need to place your outdoor condenser and indoor air handlers and connect them with conduit and piping.
The conduit, cables, refrigerant line, and condensate piping sound like a lot but usually only require about a three-inch hole or less – no need to worry about significant construction damage.
Remember to cut off electricity to the circuit before you start sawing! You don't want to earn a new hairdo because you forgot this step. DIY safely, friends.
Placing Your Indoor Ductless Mini-Split System
Indoor air handlers can be placed on floors, walls, and even on the ceiling – just about everywhere but the window. Efficiency, accessibility, and aesthetics (in that order) usually determine where you want to put it. Indoor units are installed where they're still accessible but retain high efficiency.
Equal air distribution is a priority. Try to place the unit where it will effectively dispense hot or cold air. For example, if you are in a colder climate, you could place the unit so it dispenses warm air into the room. A low spot on the wall or floor would be good in this scenario.
Place the indoor unit(s) surrounded by ample unobstructed space, where they can effectively condition the area and not be overworked. As recommended by HVAC experts, ensure there are at least two inches of space around it.
The unit should be accessible for convenience and easy maintenance, such as changing filters or cleaning the pipes. Make sure it's where you'd want to control it. If you're not six feet tall, then don't put it up high.
If possible, place the indoor unit where it is less visible. Keeping it relatively hidden can be a huge plus if you can swing it. Remember, you have to connect the indoor unit to the outdoor condenser so try to keep the connection lines out of sight.
Placing Your Outdoor Mini-Split Unit
Outdoor air condenser units can go essentially anywhere as well – ground, walls, and rooftops – but like the indoor units, you'll want to place them where they'll be most efficient. This means cooler locations, like the side of the building that receives the least sun or wherever the unit can be in a lot of shade.
This will help the unit work as a heat pump and generally operate more efficiently, as machines do at cooler temperatures.
Like indoor units, place your outdoor condensers where they will receive unobstructed airflow, allowing the fan and venting to work. Avoid placing it near plants which will impede the flow.
Outdoor units are weather resistant and don't usually need to be covered, even in winter. But it can help your unit last longer, especially if you have snowy conditions.
Condensers can be installed using mounting brackets on exterior walls – particularly the backsides of buildings, a great way to keep them out of sight. If mounting on a wall, make sure there is ample space between the wall and the unit and at least 20 inches free above the unit.
Once the condenser is mounted, connect the pipes, wires, and tubing from your indoor unit to the outside unit, hook it up to the primary circuit, and boom – you have climate control.
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Where Will You Put Your Ductless Mini-Split?
Ductless mini-split systems provide incredible flexibility with where you can install, much more than ducted systems, and can be a great option when ducting is not possible. While you can place indoor and outdoor units in many places, you'll probably want to prioritize operational efficiency, ease of access, and general aesthetics.
Make sure to follow the manufacturer manual and all safety procedures, and if you're not confident in your placement, have a licensed professional check it before installing. It never hurts to have a second opinion!
Now that you know where you should install you ductless mini-split figure out how to size your mini-split system. Still new to mini-split? Learn how mini-splits work.
Want More Mini-Split Knowledge?
Want to read more about Mini-Splits? We have all the information you need:
- Leaky Mini-Split? 5 Quick Reasons Why
- Best Mini-Split Air Conditioners 2023
- Do Mini-Splits Increase Your Home's Value? Yes, Here's Why
- How To Size Your Mini-Split System
- How Mini-Splits Work
- Are Mini-Splits Right For You?
- DIY: Mini-Split Installation
Need Help?
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