DIY Ductless Mini Split

[kudy]

I am finally at a point where I think I might be comfortable buying some ductless mini split units, and doing most of the install myself. The two rooms I want to install these in are the hottest places in the house during the summer, and the rooms that utilize the baseboard heating the most in the winter. When I've priced these out in the past, I was given quotes for installed systems in the 4-6k range, so I wrote it off as not cost-effective.

Now I've stumbled across some more affordable units, and done a lot of research into the DIY install. I could get a 1 unit system for one of the rooms for about $800. I could get a 2 zone system for the 2 main bedrooms for about $1700. The DIY install includes cutting holes through to the outside, mounting the interior units, running the lines, and mounting the exterior unit. I would hopefully be able to find an electrician to do the wiring/panel work for a few hundred dollars, and an HVAC technician to vacuum the lines and do the final test before firing up the system.

All in, I think I could get cooling and more efficient heating for the two bedrooms for around $2200. The units I am looking at are "Pioneer" brand, and I found them on Amazon, but they are sold via a dealer called High Seer. While still relatively pricey, I think this is in the range of acceptable cost for lowering some of my heating cost, while adding cooling to my bedroom. I also believe this will be an important perk when selling/renting this house in the future.

Does anyone have any experience installing these systems yourself? Anyone else considering getting some? Any HVAC folks here that have some tips? Any information or thoughts would be appreciated!

[Mr Fixit]

I've got two mini-splits.  The first one I did part of the install(electrical and interior mount and the hole through the wall).  I had an A/C guy finish it off.  It was about $1000 all in.  It has been working for 13 years.  The only hitch was that the interior unit eventually clogged with dust and got damp and molded.  I had to disassemble practically all of it to clean it out, but it worked fine after.  Very happy with it.  Didn't get a permit for this one, because I didn't know any better.  Oops.

The second, more powerful unit I just paid someone to install.  It wasn't cheap, but I wanted the warranty.  If I had to do it again, I would probably do it myself.  If you buy pre-made line sets of the proper length and have an A/C guy vacuum it down for you, it should be easy. 

Both units are very quiet and do a great job.

[DABlack]

http://ecorenovator.org/forum/geothermal-heat-pumps/

Many great DIY threads here.

Austin

[Arktinkerer]

Did a two room system on a rental house.  I installed the pad, mounted the indoor units, ran the lines and wiring and put covers on where needed.  I hired an AC guy to do the actual hookups.  Had a small leak inside the exterior unit after the first year.  Other than that its been working fine.  Doing most of the install saved some money but also made sure everything was the way I wanted it.

[iamsoners]

We are in the same boat, wanting to add a two room system to our attic renovation project. Initial quotes for the whole project came back around $9k!  So, we've been doing tons of research and have basically settled on the same route you're taking--doing the majority of installation ourselves but having an electrician run a 220 line to the unit and an HVAC guy vacuum the lines.

You might check out the Friedrich Breeze line which is designed specifically for DIYers and won't void the warranty by not having a pro install it (most warranties are void if you DIY). I've also heard there's a Caribou brand for DIYers but don't know anything about it.  These won't end up working for us since I really want ceiling cassettes but if you want wall mounted it's a good option.

I've found this to be a useful tool for sizing and shopping: http://ecomfort.com/ductless-mini-split-systems-146/ and AJ Madison also has a pretty good selection.

Good luck to you--we aren't installing until the fall probably so if you beat us to it, come back and let us know how it goes.

[kudy]

Finished this project a few weeks ago! My cost estimate was almost spot on - ended up spending $2,245 total.

I wrote up a summary blog post here:
http://www.monetarymusings.com/676/diy-mini-split-heat-pump-system/

I'd gladly answer any other detailed questions if you have them, iamsoners.

[iamsoners]

Awesome!  You've re-inspired me that I can do this--our attic has been a long slow project and it's tempting to source this stuff out so we can get it done but we'll save a boatload by doing it ourselves.  We're a couple of weeks away from finishing the framing and then I think I can turn my attention to this project... I'll certainly circle back around when I do!

[laughing_paddler]

oh man,
i do NOT need to see this thread today- this forum kicks A$$ because every time I think of a DIY project need, up pops someone doing it before me.

kudy and iamsoners- expect some questions from me on this someday next year...