Author Topic: DYI A/c install?  (Read 2164 times)

Mr.Bubbles

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DYI A/c install?
« on: March 03, 2016, 12:01:25 PM »
I need to install an A/c in my house. A family friend was going to do it on the side for me (he works for a big A/c company for a living), but recently just found out he moved across the country because now he's doing A/c work at an international air port... short story, i have lost my pro installer.

Is this something that is decently easy to understand and DYI within a few days or would this be completely over the head of someone with no ac/heater training?

Also is it even legal to DYI? i already had the electrical run so i know i do not need a new permit for that but any other advice or comments from anyone in the trade or that have done it them selves would be appreciated.

bobechs

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Re: DYI A/c install?
« Reply #1 on: March 03, 2016, 01:20:08 PM »
Hard to say, with no idea of the size, scope or nature of your particular installation.

Take your plans in one hand  and hold them up to the internet for us to take a look.

Mr.Bubbles

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Re: DYI A/c install?
« Reply #2 on: March 03, 2016, 02:08:10 PM »
its a one story house with that already has central heat, so the duct work is already there, the electrical where the condenser should be is right by the heater and the entrance to the ducts.

I do not really have any plans to say of, just found out the guy moved this morning so still in the figuring out if its even possible stage of plans

lthenderson

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Re: DYI A/c install?
« Reply #3 on: March 03, 2016, 03:21:24 PM »
I would think you would be able to install the equipment yourself but I think you have a couple problems. I'm not sure you can charge the system with coolant without a license plus you have to have some expensive equipment to do that. Secondly, I would be worried that you would lose any manufacturers warranty by doing it yourself and without proof that it was done by a licensed professional.

BudgetSlasher

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Re: DYI A/c install?
« Reply #4 on: March 03, 2016, 03:35:18 PM »
I've been looking into DIY'ing mini-splits, which also entails looking into some basic AC items.

Things for you to consider. . .

1) Ducts are sized differently for heat than they are for heat and A/C (well AC really):your ducts might not be ideal.

2) Oversizing can result in short cycling, less than ideal reductions in humidity, and I think frozen coils. At the very least you need a assessment of how many cooling btu/tons you need; I suggest a manual J calculation.

3) Many companies do not honor their warranty if the system is purchased online or DIY'ed on the install (at least in mini-splits); you will have to find a warrantied one or accept the risks.

4) You will still need to run electrical to the outside unit.

5) You will have to punch holes in your house; that is always stressful to me no matter how many times I do it.

6) You will need special tools to do the install properly; a vacuum pump to evacuate the lines, a pressure gauge to determine the correct level of vacuum, nitrogen tank and regulator to flush the lines and pressure test, and possibly a flaring tool to fit the lines. At a minimum.

7) Refrigerant: there is A LOT of arguing on the internet, but from what I can tell if a unit comes pre-charged with R410A you can DIY release the change, but the pre-charged ones have a set distance of line if you need a longer run then more refrigerant is needed; at that point I believe certification is required.

8) I have read many a story about HVAC service companies refusing to work on a DIY install.