DIY Ductless Mini-Split AC
A mini-split air conditioning system is a good alternative for people in moderate climates who cannot add ductwork to their homes. In addition to being more energy efficient than a traditional HVAC unit, a mini-split unit is easier to install and can be done mostly as a do-it-yourself one-day project. A professional is needed to connect the wiring and check the charge on the system, however. Doing these steps yourself will most likely void your warranty and could be against the building codes in your area. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Pour a layer of sand, and place pavers in a square the size of your condenser unit. If you already have an existing concrete slab, you can use this instead. In addition, some mini-split units come with wall mounting hardware to install the condenser on an exterior wall.
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Put the condenser into place, leaving plenty of space so you have access to wire the unit and tie in refrigeration lines.
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Decide where you will place the indoor units. For best results, these need to be placed at least 6 feet off the floor, near the ceiling of the room. Use the included screws and a drill or screwdriver to mount the indoor unit's hardware. It is especially important that this mounting hardware is level for proper drainage of condensation.
Using a large bit, drill a hole directly beside the mounting hardware. Drill through to the outside. This is where wiring and refrigerant lines will run to the condenser.
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Locate the defrost wire. It should be attached to the indoor unit, and match special couplings on the outdoor condenser. Run this wire through the hole in the wall; connect it to the couplings.
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Connect the drain pipe. This should be a long tube which was included with your mini-split indoor unit. It will slip into a port on the back of your indoor unit.
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Working from outside, feed two copper pipes into the room through the hole. These are the feed and return lines. Check your mini-split systems installation diagrams to confirm where these connect to the indoor unit; use the included couplings to connect them. Wrap the pipes in pipe insulation, typically made of foam.
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Look at the back of your indoor unit. You will see one more line that is not run through the hole. This is the electrical line. Feed it through the hole. Use foam insulation to close any remaining space in the hole.
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Mount your indoor unit according to the instructions included. This varies by manufacturer, but typically either slides over the hardware or is secured by screws and nuts.
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Have a technician complete the installation of your unit. He will use couplings to attach the feed and return refrigerant lines, then connect the power to your compressor and indoor unit. The power is necessary so he can flush your system of any debris, pressurize it and charge it with refrigerant. Having a technician do only this final step is typically cost-saving versus having the mini-split system professionally installed.
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References
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