Many homeowners are discovering the benefits of a ductless heat pump system. Also known as mini-splits, these units are smaller and provide more control over the comfort levels of the individual rooms in your home. Also, because of their size, they are easier to install, even though they consist of an outdoor condenser and then an indoor unit or units – the number of which depending on the layout of the home and your comfort preferences. Here are some answers to the most common questions we receive about how the ductless heating and cooling installation process works.
How Long Does It Take to Install?
Your ductless mini-split system installation usually takes about 4-6 hours, but really depends on how many indoor units you have. A system with just one room will of course take far less time than a system with several rooms involved. Here’s a quick guide to determine if you’ll need a mini-split unit in every room.
Is There a Lot of Mess from Ductless Installations?
No. In fact, we make just one three-inch hole in the wall to accommodate the indoor units. Unlike a traditional HVAC system requiring complicated ductwork, we are working with very lightweight units that are easy to mount and cause very little mess during installation.
Will I Need Much Room Outside for the Installation?
No, mini-split outdoor condensers are much smaller than a traditional central air system, so they take very little room in your backyard or along the side of your home, depending on where we place it.
Won’t Each Indoor Unit Require Lots of Space Like a Window Air Conditioner?
No, like their outdoor counterparts, the indoor units are very compact. As mentioned, we just require a small hole in the wall for installation, and they can be mounted in a lot of different places: on the wall, near the floor, along a ceiling cassette, or in other locations. They have a very narrow profile, so they won’t interfere with your furniture layout.
How Are the Indoor Units Installed?
Based on your plan, we will recommend the best spot for your indoor units. Then, in each room, we will:
- Locate the studs on the wall to ensure the best support.
- Drill small holes so we can install the mounting brackets.
- Ensure the unit sits flush to the wall and is level, so your unit drains properly for optimum function.
- Drill additional tiny pilot holes for the refrigerant lines, drain tubing, and control lines.
- Connect the control wire to your indoor unit and then push the refrigerant pipe through the wall.
- Lift the unit and then push the rest of the pipes, wiring, and tubing through the hole.
- Double-check that the unit is secured on the wall mount.
Once the indoor unit is installed, we will head outside to complete the installation.
How Are the Outdoor Units Installed?
First, we will find the ideal position for your outdoor condenser before we begin. Then we will:
- Place the condenser either on a cement block on the ground or mount it to the exterior wall, using sturdy brackets.
- Connect the pipes and tubing we fed through the wall from your indoor unit.
- Attach the wiring and tubing to the exterior wall to ensure they remain in place.
- Cover the wiring and tubing to protect them and keep them tidy.
- Connect the pipe joint on the back of the unit as well as the wiring.
While it sounds simple, it really requires professional HVAC technicians to complete the ductless heat pump installation safely. We don’t recommend trying a DIY approach (and here’s why). Instead, our Alpine Ductless Master Certified technicians can help with your ductless heating and cooling system installation, as they are licensed, bonded, insured, EPA-Certified, and licensed electricians.
Contact us here or call us at (360) 615-2740 to find out which Ductless Heating system is right for you!
Installing Ductless Heating and Cooling Systems in Thurston County including Olympia, Tumwater, Lacey, Yelm and more!