A Comprehensive Guide to Installing a Multi-Zone Mini Split System in a Mobile Home
Welcome to our humble corner of the internet! I’m Sam, and alongside Angela, we’re thrilled to kick off this video series that takes you step-by-step through the installation of a multi-zone mini split system in our mobile home. Since this is the inaugural video, we thought it would be best to start with a primer on everything you need to know about mini split systems. Think of it as Mini Split 101. We’ll answer the most common questions we grappled with when we first got ours and provide a deep dive into the entire process. So, buckle up and get ready to become a mini split aficionado!
What is a Mini Split System?
A Mini Split system, often referred to simply as a mini split, is a type of heat pump that is split into two main units: an indoor air handler and an outdoor compressor/condenser. The indoor unit is responsible for blowing air into your home, while the outdoor unit takes care of the refrigeration cycle, facilitating the heat exchange process. This setup allows the mini split to perform both heating and cooling functions, providing year-round comfort.
Mini splits are flexible in terms of installation and can be used in various settings, from single-zone setups for individual rooms to multi-zone configurations designed to control the climate in several areas of your home. The key is in the capability of the heat pump to reverse the direction of the refrigerant flow, which in turn, either absorbs heat from the indoor air for cooling or releases heat into the indoor air for heating.
Why Choose a Mini Split Over Traditional or Window Units?
When considering a climate control solution, the mini split often stacks up favorably against traditional HVAC systems and window air conditioning units for several reasons:
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Cost Efficiency: For mobile homes, traditional HVAC systems often require extensive ductwork, which can be prohibitively expensive. Additionally, the disruption caused by installing ductwork can be significant. Mini splits, on the other hand, require no ductwork, making them a more affordable and less invasive option.
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Energy Efficiency: Mini splits are generally more energy-efficient than window units. They can be designed to meet specific cooling and heating needs, running less frequently and at lower power levels compared to traditional systems or multiple window units working simultaneously.
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Versatility: Unlike window units, mini splits do not block views and can be installed in various locations within a room, often high up on walls or even mounted on the ceiling. This not only retains the aesthetic appeal but also maximizes the efficiency of air distribution.
- Heating Capability: While window units typically only provide cooling, many mini splits can offer both heating and cooling, adapting to seasonal changes with ease.
How Much Does a Mini Split System Cost?
Like many things, the cost of a mini split system can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size, number of zones, and specific brand and model. As of mid-2021, here is a general range to consider:
- Single-Zone Units: Prices typically start around $800 for smaller units.
- Multi-Zone Units: These can range from $4,000 to $5,000 for larger systems that cover extensive areas.
For our specific installation in a mobile home with three zones and a combined capacity of around 27,000 BTUs, the total cost was about $4,000. This price included the units themselves, electrical work, the line sets, and additional materials to make the system aesthetically pleasing. It’s crucial to take into account not only the initial purchase but also the costs of installation, electrical adaptations, and any other materials you may need.
Determining the Right Size and Number of Zones
A key component of planning for a mini split system is determining the correct size and number of zones needed for your space. We were fortunate enough to have prior experience with window AC units, making it easier to estimate our requirements. Here are some steps to guide you through this process:
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Calculate BTUs Needed: BTUs (British Thermal Units) measure the cooling and heating capacity of an AC unit. Higher BTUs mean more powerful cooling or heating. Different calculators are available online to help you estimate the BTU requirements based on the size of the space.
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Choose the Number of Zones: Each zone corresponds to a separate area needing temperature control. Depending on the layout and size of your home, you might opt for a single-zone unit for a small apartment or a multi-zone system for a larger home. In our mobile home, we broke it down into three zones: one for the central living area and one for each bedroom.
- Opt for More Than Less: It’s generally better to opt for a slightly larger capacity unit than to risk one that is underpowered. An overworked unit tends to be less efficient and may have a shorter lifespan.
One Large Unit vs. Multiple Smaller Units
During our research, we also conducted a cost-analysis to determine whether a single large multi-zone unit or multiple smaller units would be more economical and practical. Here’s what we found:
- Cost Efficiency: A single large unit was more cost-effective compared to several smaller units. This was particularly true when considering associated electrical work.
- Aesthetic Consideration: We preferred having one outdoor unit versus multiple ones, both for aesthetics and space-saving reasons.
- Electrical Savings: We reused the existing electrical infrastructure from our old electric furnace, further reducing costs.
Where to Buy and Which Brands to Trust
When it comes to purchasing, there are various options:
- Amazon: Widely accessible, Amazon carries a range of mini split systems from multiple brands.
- Local HVAC Suppliers: These often provide installation services along with the purchase, though they can be pricier.
- Big-Box Retailers: We chose to buy from Home Depot online, owing to the customizable kits they offered and their reliability.
We opted for the MrCool brand due to its DIY-friendly installation process and robust reputation. Home Depot’s website provided all the needed components in a single package, eliminating the hassle of sourcing individual parts.
The Backstory: From Electric Furnace to Mini Split
Our journey began with an aging 1987 electric furnace that guzzled energy to the tune of $15 additional electricity per day. Notorious for its inefficiency, the furnace’s retirement was overdue. We consulted an HVAC specialist who quoted us $14,000 for a traditional heat pump system—an amount way beyond our expectations. Even the mini split system estimate was $10,000, leading us to explore DIY options.
MrCool emerged as a front-runner due to its straightforward installation process, making it a favorite among DIY enthusiasts. With the potential savings and ease of installation, our decision was clear.
The DIY Factor
We emphasize that MrCool units are genuinely DIY-friendly, requiring no specialized skills or tools. The most advanced tool you might need is a 3.5-inch hole saw for creating passageways through walls for refrigerant lines. Common household tools will do for the rest. For instance, during our installation, the heaviest component was the outdoor compressor, and it could be easily maneuvered with a hand truck or dolly. The whole process, step-by-step, is clearly detailed in the forthcoming videos.
Conclusion
Congratulations, you’ve just completed the Mini Split 101 course! You should now have a foundational understanding of what mini splits are, why they might be a great option for your home, and what to consider when planning your installation. Whether it’s determining the right size or navigating the purchasing options, you’re well-prepared to make informed decisions.
The next videos in our series will walk you through the entire installation process, sharing our hands-on experience and practical tips. From unboxing to final testing, we’ll cover it all, ensuring you have the confidence to embark on your own mini split installation journey.
If you have any questions or need further clarification, please leave a comment below. We love hearing from you and are here to assist in any way we can. Don’t forget to check the playlist for the full step-by-step guide to completing your mini split installation in a mobile home.
Thanks for watching, and we’ll see you next time on the homestead. Bye for now!
