Best Practices for Installing Ductless Mini Splits?
By 2032, the single-zone mini split market will reach over 1.5 billion dollars.
As an HVAC tech, it’s wise to study up on the best practices for installing ductless mini split systems now before the market truly explodes.
To help you out, we’ve listed them for you below.
Best Practices for Installing Ductless Mini Split in A House?
Prepare for the Install
Before you start with the installation, consider these factors for the best results.
- Size
- Location & Placement
- Electrical Requirements
Where you place the mini split, the size of the unit, and what electrical requirements are required for the best performance and maximum comfort.
Mounting the Mini Split
Depending on the system you’re installing, mounting the mini split can be tricky. Most are 40-50 lbs, so you’ll need two studs to set up the mount. From there, you’ll mount the air-handling unit component of the mini split. You might need an extra pair of hands to get this part done.
Drill from The Inside Out
During the mini split ductless installation, you’ll need to bore a hole to fit the power cords and drainpipes for the unit. We recommend drilling a pilot hole from inside to outside the property. Drill slightly downward for better condensate drainage. Clear out the insulation and debris, and then complete the hole by continuing to drill.
Connect The Unit
Once the holes are drilled, you’ll use a torque wrench to secure the refrigerant lines to the connectors on the indoor component of your unit. Pay attention to the color of the wire during the connection process. Make sure each color of the wire corresponds to the terminal.
Condensate Drain Placement
Most wall-mounted units require a gravity-style drain for proper functionality. But if you’re installing a cassette, ceiling, or floor mount, you might only have to install the condensate pump. You should decide where the condensate drain will go before installing the unit.
What Is The Easiest Ductless Mini Split to Install
The easiest ductless mini split to install is based on your experience with installing a mini split unit, the tools required, and the type of unit being installed. However, the easiest unit to install in our experience is the Senville LETO Series mini split.
- Affordable upfront
- Pre-charged systems to simplify the process
- Comes with an installation package
Read more about our top mini-split picks here.
How to Install a 5-Zone Mini Split System
Installing 5-zone mini split systems are a bit different than a standard, one-room ductless wall unit. Here are a few steps for installing a multi-zone mini split system.
- Choose the location
- Mount the indoor units on brackets
- Position the outdoor unit on a stable surface
- Check drain lines, making sure they slope downwards
- Test the refrigerant lines for leaks & vacuum to remove moisture and air.
- Release the refrigerant from the outdoor unit
Frequently Asked Questions About Installing Ductless Mini Splits
Do Mini Splits Use a Lot of Electricity for Heat?
The amount of electricity your mini split uses depends on the unit. Most consume between 500 and 1500 watts per hour, most taking around 800 watts of power. Compared to Central HVAC, which takes about 2,000 watts per hour, you can let customers know a mini split reduces energy consumption.
Other factors that determine how much electricity the mini split uses include:
- The size of the unit
- Insulation in the home
- Usage habits
- Temperature settings
Where Should You Not Install a Mini-Split?
Avoid installing a mini split in the following locations:
- Interior walls—exterior walls are best.
- Near TVs, electronics, or fireplaces
- Near shelving or furniture that can prevent airflow
- In direct sunlight
- On angled walls
Does every room in the house need a mini split?
Not necessarily. The number of mini splits you need depends on the following:
- Square Footage
- Number of Rooms
- Insulation
- Climate
- BTUs
- Distance & Layout
A Home Selection Helps with Your Mini Split Needs
We’ve outlined the best practices for installing ductless mini split, and now it’s time to order the unit you need. HVACSUPERSTORES.com offers a wide selection of mini split units for various purposes. We also provide free express shipping, and all mini splits come with a 5-year warranty guarantee.
Explore our mini splits here.