Avoid installing the outdoor unit in a spot that gets direct, intense sunlight for prolonged periods. Don't install the indoor unit near heat sources like stoves, ovens, or fireplace. Ensure that the indoor unit is not obstructed by furniture, drapes, or other objects.
A mini split outdoor unit can also be placed on your rooftop, or on an exterior wall with specially designed mounting hardware. And it can be placed 100 feet or more from the indoor unit. Keep in mind that the farther away it is, the more efficiency the system can lose.
Microwaves, pressure cookers, and rice cookers produce steam, and gas stoves produce fumes from combustion, so it's best to install a window or mini-split AC as far away as possible from these appliances. Another issue is that heat and smoke can cause damage or discoloration to the exterior of the AC unit.
A mini-split air handler can be recessed into the ceiling or mounted on the floor. Nonetheless, the system will always work far better when the unit is installed higher up on a wall. If the room has standard 8-foot or 9-foot ceilings, you're best to install the air handler about 6 feet up from the floor.
Ductless mini split indoor units are most commonly installed on exterior walls. This is typically due to ease of installation and ensuring that all condensation that comes from the indoor unit is immediately evacuated outside. However, sometimes it is just not possible to install an indoor unit on an exterior wall.
What side of the house should a mini split be on? Ideally, the outdoor unit should be placed on a side of the house that receives some shade, particularly during the hottest parts of the day. Direct, intense sunlight can cause the unit to overheat and operate less efficiently.
What is the rule of thumb for ductless mini splits? A rule of thumb for ductless mini-splits is to place the indoor unit high on a wall, ensuring even air distribution and efficient cooling or heating throughout the room.
A mini split should ideally be installed in a location that allows for optimal air distribution throughout the room along with aesthetics, noise, and ease of maintenance – typically high on a wall or in a corner. Placement will depend on the room's layout, window locations, and the homeowner's comfort needs.
No. We make just one three-inch hole in the wall to accommodate the indoor units. Unlike a traditional HVAC system requiring complex ductwork, we work with lightweight units that are easy to mount and cause minimal mess.
Top Indoor Mini Split Placement Pitfalls. The indoor, wall-mounted unit should be centrally located in the space, ensuring it is at least one foot away from adjacent walls and obstacles. Ideally, it should be positioned at a height between 6 and 7 feet above the floor level.
Mini splits do not typically devalue a house. In fact, they can often be seen as an upgrade due to their energy efficiency, quiet operation, and the ability to provide zoned heating and cooling. Buyers may appreciate the lower utility costs and the flexibility these systems offer.
A condenser pad is the most popular mounting option for outdoor mini-split units. It will serve as a place for you to mount the outdoor unit of your mini-split system on the ground and provide the support necessary to ensure that the unit is kept stable.
The number of heads needed for your home is determined by the number of rooms and layout of your home, things largely out of your control. So, the answer to this mini split FAQ is yes, you'll need a head installed in each room that's divided by a door (except your bathrooms) that needs heating and cooling.
Make sure to leave between four and six inches between the top of the indoor unit and the ceiling. Clearance is especially important for outdoor units. Many homeowners choose to place them on concrete pads, or on mounted stands on an exterior wall. They should never be placed against the wall.
One simple and cost-effective method to hide mini split lines is to paint them to match your wall's color. This can help camouflage the lines and make them blend in seamlessly with the surroundings.
Disadvantages of Minisplits
Oversized or poorly placed air handlers can lead to short cycling, wasting energy and failing to provide proper temperature or humidity control. Aesthetic Concerns: Some people may not find the appearance of indoor units appealing.
How long does it take a professional to install a mini split? It usually takes a professional one day to install a single-zone mini split air conditioner. A multi-zone system can take up to a week, depending on the number of air handlers and their placement inside.
Home Depot mini-split installation costs $500 to $2,000 on average, depending on the number of zones and complexity. Home Depot outsources this work to a network of local installers. These HVAC installers are licensed, insured, and background checked.
Mini-Split Installation Cost FAQs
Ductless air conditioner cost ranges between $2,000 – $14,500. The cost of a mini-split installation can vary widely, depending on factors like system type, size, and additional features. The average cost to install a mini-split is $3,000.
A wall-mounted mini split air handler will not work properly if it is too close to the ceiling. It requires a foot of clearance above the unit. This allows it to draw in enough air from the room and re-circulate it. Without that clearance, it will have to work harder to maintain airflow.
Ductless Mini-Split Installation Options
The outdoor part of a mini-split system can generally be installed anywhere outside the house. The unit is usually mounted on a concrete or composite pad, but you can also choose to hang it directly on the side of the house. You can even mount it on the roof.
Usually, we use a 20 BTU per sq ft rule of thumb. Example: For a 1,500 sq ft home, you would need 1,500×20 = 30,000 BTU output. You can use one 30,000 BTU mini splits, two 15,000 BTU mini splits, or three 10,000 BTU mini splits. Be aware of the airflow and access to different rooms (secondary factor).
Refrigerant Leak: A refrigerant leak can cause the system to shut down in heat mode. Low refrigerant levels can prevent the system from properly absorbing heat from the outdoor air. Faulty Parts: Faulty parts, such as a faulty compressor or reversing valve, can prevent the mini split system from operating in heat mode.
If the system is undersized, it may not adequately cool or heat your space, leading to discomfort and constant running, which increases energy costs. Conversely, an oversized unit can cause frequent on-off cycles, resulting in wear-and-tear, inefficient energy use, and poor humidity control.