Compared to a conventional central heating and air system with all its ducts and registers, ductless mini-split installation is relatively simple. You need fewer parts and specialized tools. The components are generally lighter and easier to handle. Plus, you only have to optimize performance in one room as opposed to many.
But, that doesn't mean there aren't important considerations to keep in mind.
Best Location for Ductless Mini-Split Installation
The best location for ductless mini-split installation depends on a few different factors. First, there are a few things to consider:
What interior zone requires targeted heating and cooling?
Does the zone have an exterior wall nearby?
If there is no exterior wall in the zone, which wall is closest to the outside of the house?
Can the exterior environment adjacent to the targeted zone accommodate a mini-split condenser?
For example, suppose you want to deliver extra cooling power to the master bedroom. The master bedroom is located on the northeast corner of the house, and outside the north and east wall is ample yard space.
In this example, you could mount the interior system on either the north or east wall to correspond with the exterior ductless mini-split installation location.
If the room you wanted to cool doesn't have an exterior wall, you'll need to run the coolant tubes and wiring through an attic or crawl space to connect the interior and exterior halves. This shouldn't be a problem, since most mini-split manufacturers include plenty of material to deal with such problems.
Drainage for Ductless Mini-Split Installation
Most ductless air handlers use a drain hose to remove condensate from the interior air handler. This is absolutely essential, since all heat pumps and air conditioners generate significant water byproduct. You don't want that water running down your inside walls. Which means ensuring the condensate hose is always angled down is critical. Be certain that the ductless mini-split installation site you choose will allow water to flow smoothly out of your home.
Suppose you want to put the air handler in a location where it would be difficult or impossible to run a drain hose down and outside. The solution is a condensate pump. Many mini-split units can accommodate these. They pump the water out, so it doesn't ruin your interior.
Mounting Options for Ductless Mini-Split Installation
An outside ductless condenser is designed to weather the elements, but you can't just plop it out onto the ground. It needs to be properly placed on a base pad or wall mount.
A base pad is a cost effective and simple solution. You can buy a durable plastic pad or pour a simple concrete slab. Many homeowners opt for this, since it's very straightforward.
In some ductless mini-split installations, it may be desirable to use a wall mount either near to the ground or further up on an exterior wall. Make sure you buy a bracket strong enough to support the weight of your condenser. Don't guess! The last thing you want to see is a condenser falling off the side of your home.
The MRCOOL DIY comes with special refrigerant lines that are pre-charged, sealed, and fitted with special "No-Vac" connections. This means that the unit can be installed without the necessity of brazing the lines, vacuuming them, and charging the unit. This makes installation simpler and faster.
How big of a hole or pipe is needed to run the lines through the wall? I already installed a PVC pipe channel to the outside of my home from unfinished room over garage knowing I would get one of these one day.
Is the unit 220 or 110 volt?
My house is small probably , 1000 sg/feet. Is it best to go with a little large unit and location it centrally to cool the hole unit on a lower setting?
If so,what unit would you recommend and can I get it with the unit charged, so I can do the insulation?
If you want a mini-split unit that you can install in 1000 sq ft, you should look at the <a href="https://iwae.com/shop/heating-air-conditioning/full-systems/ductless-split-systems/?series=520">MRCOOL DIY 24k</a>. This is a 240v unit. It is charged with R-410a. The homeowner can do the majority of the installation. The only area we recommend they get help with is the electrical. Alternatively, you could go with a conventional multi-zone set-up if you don't want to rely on a single unit to distribute air.
I am installing an 18,000 BTU unit for 480 square feet.. New construction, a metal building with 4-1/2 foam panel walls and OSB inside. The space has three exterior walls, South, West and North facing.
Should I install the air handler on the warmest wall or does it matter?
Ideally you want to install your outside condenser on the north side, shielded from as much direct sun as possible. Which means your air handler will likely be mounted on that north wall.
