A split-system air conditioner is an amazing option for keeping your home cool and comfortable during the hot summer months. It's often considered a ductless mini-split air conditioning system, which consists of two components - an indoor handling unit and an outdoor compressor. It's mainly in demand due to its quiet operation, potential to supply zone-specific cooling and more energy efficiency - higher efficiency than central air conditioning.
One can install on their own if they have hands-on experience with plumbing and electric work but hiring a professional can be convenient to those with hectic schedules. Each air conditioning unit is special to its manufacturer, but the general process is the same. And the cost of a DIY mini-split depends on the size, features, and efficiency, ranging between $450-$10,000.
Pre-Installation Preparation for Your Split System
There are a few precautions to keep in mind before you begin to cut holes in your drywall, involving these terms:-
Wiring - A ductless mini-split system generally needs a committed 20-amp circuit. It is suitable to hire a professional if you lack the electrical know-to-how to power your system in a safe manner.
Installation - The easiest installation of ductless mini-split is the indoor air-handling units on exterior walls. The installation of the same on an interior wall can be a complex job to do.
Formal Assurance - Some manufacturers, like MRCOOL, only feel glorified in their warranty if the unit is installed by a licensed HVAC contractor, for example, one-hour heating and air conditioning, ensuring the system is installed correctly and works safely.
Altitudes - Generally, it is preferred by homeowners to install it in their own bedroom on the second floor, therefore, make sure you have a tall enough ladder to reach there if you are doing it yourself. If you have access to it, scaffolding is considered over ladders for safety causes.
Single or multiple - a single unit is simpler and quite less expensive but is designed to cool down one room but an entire system can cool multiple rooms as it runs off on an outdoor condenser unit, offering a complete cooling solution.
Step-by-Step Installation Instructions
If you are worried about installing a wall-mounted split AC, then keep on reading. You will be able to install the system in less time with very few risks if you follow the step-by-step instructions carefully. Stick with it to the end.
Step 1: Pick Up Installation Area
Pick a place far away from the sunlight and then drill a hole there to connect the pipes from the indoor unit to the outdoor unit. There should be about 6-12 inches of space on each side of the unit, and the height of a wall-mounted AC should be about 2.1m above the floor.
Step 2: Position the Mountain Plate
Make sure to mark the place after positioning the mountain plate on both the horizontal and vertical sides, then drill the holes for the screws.
Step 3: Drill an Outlet Hole
Select a place to drill the outlet hole to feed the pipes outside and ensure that there are no electrical wires or pipes inside or beside the wall before drilling into the hole. Make sure the opening slightly slopes downward since it makes enough drainage.
Step 4: Check Indoor Wiring
Open the front panel of the indoor unit and ensure the wires are well connected to the screw terminals in the correct order; it helps establish that all communication wires are secure at their places.
Step 5: Bend the Pipes and Cables
Secure the copper pipes, cables, and drainage pipes using tape after running it through the opening. Place the drainage pipe at the bottom to ensure better water flow. Don't forget to bend the cables and pipe, as it can decrease the cooling efficiency.
Step 6: Mount the Unit
Now connect the back of the unit with the ones on the mounting plate and press there firmly for safer connection. Always tilt the unit 2 to 3 degrees backward for smooth water flow out of the drain pipe.
Step 7: Select a Place for the Outdoor Unit
Find a suitable place for the outdoor unit within 50 feet to ensure pipes and cables are attached easily. It's better if you can place the external unit at least 10 feet away from the radio or TV antenna.
Step 8: Concrete Pad
Drill the holes after the bracket is horizontally aligned, or if you opt for a concrete pad, then ensure the space you place it is flat and even.
Step 9: Mount the Outdoor Unit
Finally, check that the air conditioner and the screw holes of the bracket coincide while placing it on the wall. This unit could be a lot heavy, so take the help of another person to lift it up.
Now lay down a rubber cushion first and then place the unit to reduce vibrations. Then use anchor bolts to secure the unit with the concrete pad.
Step 10: Final Wiring
Connect the wires and piping by referring to the diagram of the AC unit in order to connect copper wires, use flare nuts.
Connect the power supply to the appointed outlet.
After following these steps, just pass the air from the refrigerant, fix the piping with claps, and seal up the hole in the wall with polyurethane foam. And, you are done.
Cost Reduction
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Get the AC in the off-season as HVAC companies charge less that time.
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One air handler can help set up to serve more than a room, so there is no need to get extra air handlers.
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Make sure to pick the correct system size as per your home square footage, as a large unit will cost extra electricity.
Conclusion
If you follow the above steps, setting up your own split system air conditioner will be a less tough task. Although pre-preparation for split system installation is significant, make sure to wear gloves and masks for your own safety measures. An important thing to remember is that at any point, if you feel hesitant or unsure about doing it all alone, do seek professional help or some extra help from those you know if you can't afford to hire a professional.
