You’ve finally decided that a mini-split system is the best way to heat and cool your home.
Congratulations! Not only is the installation process less invasive than a more traditional HVAC system, but it’s also energy-efficient and cost-effective.
Once you’ve made this decision, it’s time to turn your attention to the installation process.
You have two basic options available to you:
- DIY ductless mini-split installation: With this, you purchase the system and install it yourself. Yes, you’ll save money on labor, but you’re taking a risk unless you know exactly what you’re doing.
- Hire a professional: An experienced installation professional can answer your questions, install your system, and give you peace of mind in knowing that everything was done the right way.
Steps to Install a Ductless Mini-Split System
In its most basic form, there are three steps to install a ductless mini-split system:
- Choose a system
- Install the indoor air handlers
- Install the outdoor condenser unit
While that sounds simple enough, there’s a lot more that goes into the process. Let’s take a look at some of the other things required to ensure proper installation and performance:
1. Installing the Mounting Brackets
For every indoor air handler, you must install a bracket to the wall. This includes leveling it, marking the screw hole locations, and marking hole locations for the electrical cable, condensate discharge line, and refrigeration lines.
And that’s just the planning process.
From there, you need to bore the holes in the appropriate location and attach the mounting bracket to the wall.
2. Running the Lines
Ductless mini-split systems require a condensate discharge line and refrigeration lines. Without these, your system won’t work. The same holds true if you neglect to install the lines in the appropriate manner.
After the indoor air handlers are mounted on the bracket, you’ll feed the lines through the hole in the wall and down a vertical chase on the exterior of your home. The lines will lead to the outdoor unit, which isn’t always located in an easily accessible area.
3. Running the Electrical Cable
Mini-split systems need electricity to work, so you need to run a conduit from the condenser unit to an outdoor electrical box.
Challenges may include:
- Trouble running the cable through the conduit
- Mounting the conduit in a safe place
- Keeping the electrical cable from being exposed to the elements
It goes without saying that you don’t want to make a mistake here, as it could result in your system not working, and even worse, a fire.
Along with the above, the final steps include pressure testing the system and vacuuming out the nitrogen. These aren’t steps that the average homeowner is able to complete without a professional.
There’s a lot to keep in mind when installing a ductless mini-split system.
If you’ve come to the conclusion that a DIY installation is out of the question, contact us to discuss your situation and schedule a consultation. As one of the leading installers of ductless mini-splits in the Boston area, we’re available to meet your every need.