Why You Should Consider a Mini Split Air Conditioner
A mini split air conditioner is a cost-effective alternative to traditional central air conditioning systems. Not only do they save you money on your energy bills, but they can also be easily installed by homeowners with a little bit of DIY experience. Plus, they’re much quieter than traditional systems and can be controlled separately in different rooms, giving you more control over your home’s comfort. In this article, we will go through the process of installing a mini split air conditioner and show you how to save money by doing it yourself.
First, Let’s Talk About Traditional Air Conditioning Services
If you’ve ever called an air conditioning company to perform maintenance or repairs on your existing system, you know just how expensive their services can be. An initial inspection could cost you around $85, and if your system needs a recharge, they might charge you up to $165 per pound of refrigerant. When all is said and done, you could be looking at a bill totaling $2,000 or more.
Why pay that much for an aging, inefficient system when you could invest in a brand-new mini split air conditioner? These systems are much more affordable and efficient and can be installed relatively easily by anyone with some DIY skills.
Introducing The Mini Split Air Conditioner
Mini split air conditioners comprise of two parts: an indoor unit mounted on the wall and an outdoor unit connected via refrigerant lines. These systems are typically pre-charged with refrigerant, eliminating the need for expensive charging services.
How To Install A Mini Split Air Conditioner
To install a mini split air conditioner, you’ll need the following materials:
– A mini split system
– An installation manual
– Tools, such as a drill, hole saw, and level
– Refrigerant gauges and a vacuum pump
– Electrical wires and connectors
– Mounting hardware for the indoor and outdoor units
Here’s a step-by-step guide to installing your mini split system:
1. Install The Indoor Unit
The first step is installing the indoor unit. You’ll need to mount it on a wall and connect the electrical wires, refrigerant lines, and drain line. Use the provided template to mark the location for the mounting bracket and drill the necessary holes for the hardware. Mount the indoor unit securely to the wall, ensuring it’s level.
2. Drill A Hole For The Refrigerant Lines
Next, you’ll need to drill a hole through the wall for the refrigerant lines to connect to the outdoor unit. This hole should be large enough to accommodate the lines and the drain line, but small enough to maintain the integrity of your wall’s structure. Install a plastic sleeve or cover to prevent debris from entering the hole and seal around it with silicone or another suitable sealant.
3. Install The Outdoor Unit
Now it’s time to install the outdoor unit. Mount the unit on a bracket or pad outside your home, making sure it’s level and secure. Connect the refrigerant lines and electrical wires to the outdoor unit, following the installation manual’s instructions. Tighten the connections with two wrenches to prevent leaks, but be careful not to over-tighten them.
4. Vacuum The System And Release The Refrigerant
Once all the connections are secure, it’s time to vacuum the system to remove any air or moisture. Use a refrigerant gauge and vacuum pump to do this. Once the system has been vacuumed, you can release the refrigerant from the outdoor unit into the system by opening the valve on the outdoor unit.
5. Test Your New Mini Split System
Finally, power on your new mini split system and ensure that it’s working properly. Congratulations, you’ve just installed your very own mini split air conditioner!
Save Money And Energy With A Mini Split Air Conditioner
By installing a mini split air conditioner yourself, you can save money on costly installation and repair services while also enjoying lower energy bills. Not only will your home be more comfortable, but you’ll also be making an environmentally-friendly choice. So why wait? Start enjoying the benefits of a mini split system today!