Mini Split System Installation – What to Expect When Installing a Mini Split System
A mini split air conditioning system is a ductless air conditioner, which means it offers many benefits over traditional air conditioning systems. Many homeowners see them as an attractive option for a variety of reasons. Learn about how it works, its benefits, and what to expect if you install and maintain it.
What is a Mini Split System?
How It Works
A mini split air conditioning system uses a series of components to transfer heat between indoor and outdoor environments. This allows for effective heating and cooling for your home. There are two main units, the indoor and the outdoor units. The indoor unit is responsible for absorbing heat from the outside air. It consists of an evaporator coil and a blower fan. Both components help to cool the air. The outdoor unit has a compressor, condenser coils, and a conduit. The compressor uses a refrigerant that helps compress high-pressure gas. Then it will release absorbed heat to the outside environment, turning the refrigerating back into liquid. Between the two units, this system involves the ability to cool the air or heat it.
Mini Split System Benefits
Mini-split systems bring various benefits that make them stand out so uniquely. One key feature is its compact size and flexible zoning capability. This means that it is compact and small, and compared to traditional air conditioning systems, it has no ductwork. They can support multiple indoor units by connecting to a single outdoor compressor. This allows individual control of different rooms and areas. This means you’ll be able to adjust the thermostat for just a single room or area, giving you more control over the temperature of your house.
It is also more energy efficient. Most central air systems lose a lot of energy through their duct systems (about 30%.) Mini-splits condition air directly to your living space without wasting any energy on ductwork. So, as a result of increased energy efficiency, it saves money on the operating costs and lowers the amount on your energy bill. It can also save money through the installation process, which is quick, easy, and flexible. If homeowners want to install another mini-split air conditioning unit in the future, they’ll be able to since the mini-split is small, compact, and ductless.
How To Install a Mini Split System Step by Step
You’ll first want to select a location for your indoor unit that will be placed against a wall. It should be away from direct sunlight, doorways, and dusty areas. Ensure the wall you place it along is clear of wires, pipes, and ducts that could interfere with your drilling. Place the condenser on a flat, stable surface for the outdoor unit. A wall bracket or concrete pad are a couple of options. Here’s a tip: install it on your home’s east or north side, improving cooling efficiency.
The next step is to install the mountain bracket by using screws with anchors to help drill it into the wall. This setup will hang your indoor mini-split unit on the wall. For the outdoor unit, you can mount it on a concrete pad or bracket you installed. Lastly, you can connect the wiring of both the indoor and outdoor units. It would help if you made sure all connections are secure and tight. Then power can be run to the units from your electrical panel. It is possible to install it yourself DIY-style. Still, it is recommended to go with an experienced professional, especially if you are unsure what to do, don’t have experience with air conditioning installation, or have never attempted a task like this before.
Mini Split System Cost and Maintenance
Installation Cost
A mini split air conditioning system can cost as low as $500 to as high as $16,000, depending on what you install. There are single-zone systems, which only means installing a mini-split for a single zone of a house mini-split system installation. Multi zones can increase the cost a lot due to needing larger setups. Basic units cost the least out of the options. Generally, the average cost will be around $3,000 if you want a standard system, which most people will go for.
Installation Follow Up
After the mini split air conditioning system’s installation, there are ways you can actively maintain its health and make sure it lasts a long time. Routine maintenance can include cleaning or replacing the air filters every 4-6 weeks. This prevents dust buildup and maintains airflow for the mini-split. You can also periodically clean the indoor unit’s cabinet to prevent dust from building up. For seasonal maintenance, you can hire a professional to perform a professional checkup for your mini-split system, preferably once in the spring and once in the fall. Lastly, it is recommended that you hire a certified HVAC technician to perform an annual deep cleaning of your mini-split units. This is because they will disassemble air handlers, check for leaks, and clean any areas after disassembling the appropriate parts. You could do this yourself, but it is recommended that a professional be hired if you aren’t familiar with how your mini-split air conditioner is put together.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we have provided helpful information when it comes to learning about how a mini-split air conditioner works, the benefits of a mini-split system compared to a traditional one, and how to install and maintain your air conditioner. Regarding mini-splits or any air conditioners, we at Seattle Heating and Cooling consider ourselves the most knowledgeable HVAC-certified technicians! If you are thinking about installing a mini-split system, you can call us at 206-984-2875 or contact us for a free quote. Regarding our heating and cooling systems, your comfort is our priority.
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