How to Install a Split-System Air Conditioner

Doing the DIY approach when installing an HVAC unit is not recommended, especially if you’re dealing with gas and other dangerous components and you lack an understanding of how the system works. However, if you have some experience with electrical and plumbing work, you can do the installation on your own. But when the time comes that you need an air conditioning tuneup, make sure to call a professional. The following are the general steps on how to install a split-system air conditioner.

Step 1: Find an Unobstructed Location

To find a perfect place for your unit, find an undisturbed location on your interior wall. Remember that this area shouldn’t be directed to heat sources like direct sunlight. An indoor unit will need at least 6 feet of open space and should be put 7 feet above the ground. The unit is going to be heavy, so make sure that the wall is strong enough to hold it. After that, secure the mounting plate. Drill some holes and insert anchors to them. Use the tapping screws to secure the plate.

Step 2: Create a Hole in the Wall for the Pipes

Next thing to do is find a good location for the piping. Consider the pipe’s length and distance the unit would take to travel the outside unit. Drill a 7.5 cm diameter through the hole. Make sure it’s sloping downward, then insert a flexible flange. Check the electrical connections.

Step 3: Connect the Pipes

Connect the pipes from the indoor unit towards the hole you drilled. Do not bend so the unit will have a high performance. Cut a pipe with 6 mm shorter than the length between your exterior and interior wall surfaces. Place a pipe cap at the PVC pipe’s end. Insert the pipe into the hold. Use an electrical tape to bind the power cables, copper pipes and drain pipe together. Put a drain pipe on the bottom. Tight the connection of the pipe to the indoor units, use 3 wrenches to do this. Rub the bound cables and pipes through the hole.

Step 5: Choose Location for Outdoor Unit

After securing the indoor unit, it’s time to choose a location for the outside condenser. Make sure it’s not heavily trafficked or hot. It will need a free 12 foot space around it so it can function properly. Lay the concrete pad; make it high enough so it can’t be reached by winter snows during winter season. Set the unit on the pad. To minimize vibration, use a rubber cushioning under the unit.

Step 6: Connect the Wires

Remove the unit’s cover. Read the wiring diagram to connect the wires properly. Make sure that you follow the instructions of the manufacturers. Use a clamp to fasten the cables. Replace the cover.

Step 7: Complete the Installation

One of the final touches to do is bleeding the humidity and air from the circuit. To do this, remove the caps from the vales. Connect a vacuum hose, turn it on then off. Make sure you test for leaks. Use insulating tape and cover when wrapping the joints of the pipes.