The Comprehensive Guide to Installing a DIY Mini Split System
If you’ve spent any significant time on YouTube or social media lately, you’ve likely encountered ads for the Mr. Cool DIY mini split system. These systems have become a favorite among influencers and YouTubers for their ease of installation and innovative features. However, the unit I’m discussing today is not the Mr. Cool system. Instead, it’s a more economical mini split that I purchased from Home Depot, known as the Ductless Air brand. While I use the term "cheap," it still cost me $995, which is considerable money. Let’s delve into the detailed aspects of the Ductless Air mini split, its installation, functionality, issues, and the overall user experience.
Understanding Mini Split Systems
First, let’s break down what a mini split system is and how it works. Essentially, a mini split system is similar to your conventional window unit in function but comes with more flexibility. The system splits into two main components: the indoor unit responsible for blowing air and the outdoor unit tasked with the cooling or heating process.
The indoor unit, often mounted on a wall, works to distribute conditioned air throughout the room. On the other hand, the outdoor unit handles the heat exchange process, either pumping cool air into the house during summer or warm air during winter. These two units are connected by a series of copper lines, a drain tube, and a control wire.
Installation Overview
Indoor Unit Setup
Installing the indoor unit is relatively straightforward. It mounts on the wall using a simple aluminum French cleat that secures the unit in place. Once mounted, you connect the unit to the outdoor counterpart through lines and wires that run between both units.
One crucial step during installation is handling the copper lines. These lines need to be unrolled carefully to avoid kinks or twists, which could affect the system’s efficiency. Likewise, the control wire and drain tube should be installed meticulously to avoid any potential operational issues. The drain tube, in particular, should have a clear path for condensation to exit naturally via gravity. This can be achieved by running it out the side, back, or bottom of the unit based on your installation scenario.
Outdoor Unit Placement
Next, let’s move outside. The place where your indoor unit’s lines exit your home should align with where you plan to position the outdoor unit. My setup involves routing these lines down and across the wall to the unit.
The outdoor unit itself should ideally be elevated off the ground using a mounting bracket. This helps protect it from elements like snow and leaves, ensuring a longer operational life. The outdoor unit I use is exceptionally quiet, often running unnoticed, which is crucial if you live in a quiet neighborhood or are sensitive to noise.
Considerations for Effective Installation
Location Matters
Choosing the correct location for both units is essential for effective operation. Initially, I considered positioning the indoor unit in various spots around my workshop. However, location constraints eventually led to placing it on a specific wall that, while not optimal, still manages to cool the entire space adequately. My space is a 22×22 feet shop with an extra 8×10 feet alcove, totaling roughly 575 square feet. The chosen location impacts how air circulates within the space, but a ‘Follow Me’ function on the remote control mitigates this by allowing the remote to act as a thermostat.
Electrical Considerations
When dealing with electrical components, safety is paramount. My system required a dedicated 220-volt line and a fuse box with 30-amp fuses. If you’re not comfortable handling high-voltage electrical work, it’s advisable to hire a licensed electrician. Electrical mishaps can be dangerous and costly, so professional assistance is often worth the investment.
Accessories and Add-ons
Several accessories can enhance the performance and longevity of your mini split system. Some essential accessories I recommend include:
- Insulation Covers: Adding covers to the copper lines helps keep the setup clean and protected from physical damage and weather elements.
- Mounting Brackets: As mentioned earlier, elevating the outdoor unit with a bracket protects it from environmental damage.
- Thermostatic Remote Control: Advanced remote controls with ‘Follow Me’ features offer better temperature regulation.
- Condensation Pumps: If your setup doesn’t allow for a simple drain path, a condensation pump can help manage water expulsion effectively.
Performance and Troubleshooting
Heating and Cooling Features
The Ductless Air system offers both heating and cooling functions, making it a versatile choice for all-year-round use. While cooling is its primary function during hot months, the built-in heat pump efficiently heats the space during colder times. Notably, the heat pump struggles in extremely low temperatures, below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, where its efficiency drops, but it still manages to maintain a comfortable temperature inside the workshop.
Common Issues and Resolutions
The only significant issue I encountered with the Ductless Air system was a malfunction with the remote receiver. This component unexpectedly failed a month ago. However, customer service was responsive and provided a replacement part quickly, even though the unit was technically out of warranty. This kind of after-sales support is a major plus for any consumer.
Routine Maintenance
Routine maintenance involves keeping the indoor unit’s filters clean and ensuring the drain tube remains unclogged. The filters should be removed and cleaned every 30 days, particularly in dusty environments like workshops. Regular maintenance ensures efficient operation and longevity of the system.
Final Thoughts
Switching to a mini split system, especially a DIY-friendly one like the Ductless Air brand, offers several advantages over traditional HVAC systems. These units provide cost-effective, energy-efficient temperature control for both small and large spaces. While the installation process may seem daunting, it is quite manageable with some basic tools and a little DIY spirit. And for parts of the installation that require specialized knowledge, such as electrical work, professional help can easily bridge the gap.
The mini split system is an excellent choice for anyone needing flexible temperature control in different areas of their home or workspace. With a bit of forethought in planning the location and installation process, these systems can boost comfort without the need for extensive renovations or complex ductwork.
Whether you choose the popular Mr. Cool brand or the more budget-friendly Ductless Air brand from Home Depot, these mini split systems provide a compelling blend of efficiency, ease of use, and modern convenience for DIY enthusiasts and homeowners alike.