Parts list and mini splits mentioned in the video (affiliate links): Pioneer Mini Split: amzn.to/3Og7VZf Budget Della Mini Split (same product as pioneer but cheaper!): amzn.to/3XQlLoF Vacuum pump and gauges: amzn.to/3Qh43Jh Electronic torque wrench: amzn.to/3DdZpUq Or you can use a traditional torque wrench and these adapters, like I did in the video: amzn.to/3pPdqoq Nylog to prevent leaks on the connection points: amzn.to/44JI15N Leak Detector Spray: amzn.to/3OhlEz8 Adapters for hose to service port: amzn.to/3Ohssgj EG4 Plug-N-Cool 12K: signaturesolar.com/eg4-12k-mini-split-air-conditioner-heat-pump-12000-btu-seer2-28-5-plug-n-cool-do-it-yourself-installation/?ref=cPwLcVc0SW-BjN EG4 Plug-N-Cool 9K (even higher efficiency!): signaturesolar.com/eg4-9k-mini-split-air-conditioner-heat-pump-9000-btu-seer2-29-5-plug-n-cool-do-it-yourself-installation/?ref=cPwLcVc0SW-BjN AC/DC Plug-N-Cool 24K: signaturesolar.com/eg4-hybrid-ac-dc-solar-air-conditioner-2-ton/?ref=cPwLcVc0SW-BjN Mr. Cool 12-36K Quick Connect: www.currentconnected.com/product/mrcool-mini-split-air-conditioner-diy/?ref=wp 0:00 Intro 0:37 Unboxing 1:35 Indoor Unit 6:35 Outdoor Lineset 8:25 Vacuum Procedure 14:29 Final Steps 16:02 Bonus Section! Special Tools and Flare Tool Tutorial *Does off-grid solar confuse you?* Check out my DIY friendly website for solar system packages and product recommendations, and so much more! www.mobile-solarpower.com *Join our DIY solar community* #1 largest solar forum on the internet for beginners and professionals alike: www.diysolarforum.com *Check out my Book* Best-selling and beginner-friendly guide to 12V off-grid solar! amzn.to/2Aj4dX4 If DIY is not for you, but you love solar and need an offgrid system, check out Tesla Energy! They will price out a system and get your house offgrid: ts.la/william57509 *My DIY Solar Equipment Recommendations (Constantly updated! Check here first):* 12V/48V Lithium Solar Batteries: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solar-batteries.html Complete Solar System Component Directory: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solarcomponents.html Complete 48V System Blueprint: www.mobile-solarpower.com/48v-complete-system-blueprint.html Plug-N-Play System Recommendations: www.mobile-solarpower.com/full-size-systems.html Complete "Add to Cart" 48V System Kits: www.mobile-solarpower.com/complete-48v-solar-kits.html DIY Friendly Air Conditioner/ Heat Pumps: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solar-friendly-air-conditioners.html *My Favorite Online Stores for DIY Solar Products:* *Signature Solar* Offgrid One-Stop-Shop. Best Value 48V LiFePO4, Victron and Offgrid Specific Heat Pumps: www.signaturesolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek *Current Connected* SOK, Victron, Mr.Cool Heatpumps and High Quality Components. Fantastic customer support: currentconnected.com/?ref=wp *Litime* My favorite 12V budget battery!: www.litime.com/?ref=XBIA62RFcalHns *Epoch Batteries* My favorite high-quality 12V battery: www.epochbatteries.com/products/12v-460ah-lifepo4-battery-ip67-heated-bluetooth-victron-comms?rfsn=7352625.50494d *Renogy* A classic 12V solar store that has been around for ages! DC to DC Chargers and more! renogy.sjv.io/n1VjXx *Rich Solar* Renogy's biggest competitor! Similar products, but at a better price: richsolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek *Battery Hookup* Cheap cell deals bit.ly/2mIxSqt 5% off code: diysolar *Contact Information:* I am NOT available for personal solar system consult! If you wish to contact me, this is my direct email: williamprowsediysolar@gmail.com Join the forum at diysolarforum.com/ if you wish to hang out with myself and others and talk about solar *FTC Disclosure Statement and Disclaimers:* Every video includes some form of paid promotion or sponsorship. Some links on this youtube channel may be affiliate links. We may get paid if you buy something or take an action after clicking one of these. My videos are for educational purposes only. Information is subject to change/update at any time. Electricity is DANGEROUS and can kill. Be smart and use common sense :) DIY Solar Power with Will Prowse is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, An affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com
Will or anyone who knows to answer please 🙏 Hey Will love your content. About to buy MPP Solar 2724 LV-MR. Can't download the manual so just wanted to know can the inverter be turned off for AC when not in use? I'm building a system for my van mainly for 24/12V.. I know that inverter draws 24W. Also 4 150W panels with VOC of 42.74 I'll wire parallel and s/b about 17 amps at max and VOC 42.74. Is that going to make for a good system? ( 2 100AH 24V SOK batteries..)
@@terryrodbourn2793 yes you can but for those that do not like all the extra Lineset and want to shorten it and flare it this is a good video explaining how this is done.
Your presentation on connecting/disconnecting the gauges, vacuum pump, vacuuming the system, and checking for leaks is the best I have seen on the internet. You knocked it out of the park.
@@WillProwse Seriously, that was the best and most concise explanation I've seen, too. I'm here doing a refresher for my second mini-split install, and I really appreciate the clean delivery--it's way better than anything we had a few years ago! You might want to consider cutting and pasting that chapter (vacuum procedure) into its own video for indexing and posterity. Absolutely great video work. Thanks. And here's your like, 👍which I barely ever give out!
Just put in the Della early last week. Already had the vacuum pump so it was super cheap. I welded my own frame for an overhead side mount (roof). At 20 SEER they are super efficient and incredibly powerful. After installing the second one I can't set them under 73 or my house gets too cold. All this when temps here have'nt gone under 100F for the past two weeks. And they heat well in the winter. With my solar panels being installed next week it all came together beautifully. Thanks for inspiring me to get it all done.
Just an FYI, if your vacuum rises a tiny bit then stops, that's okay. Run the vacuum pump again until you're back to zero. What happens is that as you pull the vacuum, water vapor in the line will condense and then freeze. Ice will not vacuum out. But as the lineset warms up and the water evaporates (sublimates, actually), it will cause the vacuum in your line to drop. Will didn't have to deal with this because he's in a desert, but if you're in the southeast you will see it.
This is why the manufacturer recommends a teipple vac/nitrogen flash sequence. Moisture crystals in the system get heated and flushed out with the nitrogen purging sequences. Lotsa tricks we pros use.
I just ordered my Della and everything you recommended tonight Will . You do a tremendous public service to those of us who are handy with tools. I was quoted $3200 to install a similar unit. I may be old but i am not stupid, thanks Will.
well you will need cable . circuit breaker, drain hose, and the trunking for the lines. the more expensive units are more efficient and will pay for the difference in energy costs in a few years .
@@STRUTZKOFF $50 for cable ,already had cutoff box, $30 for circuit breaker, vacuum pump and gauges $150 , FIVE HOURS INSTALL FOR FREE AND IT WORKS EVEN BETTER THAN I IMAGINED . So what is your beef ? unemployed A/C GUY ?
@@Channel-gz9hmImagine what the price of oil and electricity will be after war breaks out and straights of Hormuz are closed. You can get a 25.5 SEER2 for $1150 which is about the same as a 33 SEER.
Thanks so much for re-posting. I was leaving a thank you comment on the last one when it disappeared. You are a consummate professional, Will, to take one down, update it or do it over, and post again. I appreciate your honesty and all the effort you make to teach us. I'm a novice at this, so your instruction is needed. Can't say I don't wish you were my neighbor so I could offer to hire you to look over my shoulder, making sure I do it right.
Great video. I've watched dozens of these mini split installation videos. You are the first one that used "positive pressure" from the unit before you removed the gauge lines. What a great idea!
Great Video. I have a Pioneer unit that is about 10 years old. I did not have the HVAC tools, but I installed it all myself and had an HVAC tech friend come over to vacuum it and release the refrigerant. I've never had a problem with it and have been very pleased.
That's what I did too. You get a proper nitrogen purge as well, plus he'll have a fancy leak detector and good valve core remover. Even ends up being cheaper when you're only doing 1 or 2. I'd only go full DIY if I was fitting out a whole apartment complex or something
@@motog6436 Do you remember what you paid per unit? I'll have 4 or 5 of these to do on a new property I'm developing, so I figured the DIY route would save me some money, but maybe not? And any idea if you get the factory warranty going this route, or would the tech need to actually do everything Will's doing in the video? The Mitsubishi unit I bought recently, and I think most on the market that aren't called "DIY" require an HVAC tech to sign off that they did the installation in order for the manufacturer to honor the warranty.
@@TroyWarr1980if you are doing several, the proper tools and supplies will save you money and make it so you can do more in the future, or sell the tools on marketplace… I am a pro installer in Charlotte NC… I left a lot of critiques for Will in the comments. I’m happy to list what you need to do the job right on your own.
@@SuperVstech can you post a video of how to do what I did on a budget? And I responded to everything you mentioned.and People will not spend money on the fancy HVAC gear if they can just buy a mr.cool or EG4 with quick connects.
Put in my first Pioneer 7 years ago DIY style, I now have 3 + 1 multi split. Because these are so efficient the solar system I just installed was very affordable and the overall system, Mini Splits + Solar, works great! Power company is going to think I'm on long term vacation.
Great tips! More tips for the viewers: Get an "inverter type" / variable speed compressor. This is more efficient than "all on, all off" type... Get a heat pump if you also want to run it in reverse and pump heat inside. If you do, you will also need a drain line on the outdoor unit. There is also a service adapter valve kit that allows you to connect your pressure gauge behind a valve so you can turn off the valve before removing the gauge set. Basically a valve for your lines. Wear a hat if you work in the full midday sun... I usually discard the stock insulation and replace it with better and thicker pipe insulation, slid on prior to install. If you need to run longer lines, the manual will tell you how much more refrigerant to add, if so, and what the max run and heights are...
Those are manufactured by Midea. Like most Chinese manufactured devices they all use similar components, just different revisions. If you ever question who the manufacture is do a reverse image search of the remote / thermostat. Once you have that info finding parts is a lot simpler. Most of those line sets have terrible factory flares. I would recommend reflaring all of them when doing an install. Eccentric flaring tools are pretty much mandatory to use to get a leak free seal. A lot of people will coil the extra line set behind the unit, this is bad for two reasons. One it serves as a oil trap preventing any oil to get back to the condenser. Two it can block airflow through the condenser. The install in the video was very clean. 👍
Love your passion for helping people. Have followed since...... forever! You've never changed! Thank you for helping so many and doing it so selflessly and with great joy. It's very appreciated in these times for sure. Stay well Will!!
One note of warning. The pre-loaded refrigerant is metered specifically for the length of lineset included with the kit. When cutting the lineset short make sure to refer to the manual so that you don't have too much refrigerant for the amount of lineset. A professional HVAC technician can adjust your refrigerant if needed.
@@Channel-gz9hmmost units just say don't cut your lines shorter than 15 ft and if you go longer than 25ft per zone you must add refrigerant by weighing it in.
Im not an hvac guy, just a lowly plumber.. but i thought "i wonder if its been preloaded based on the length of lineset".. thanks for confirming this! also, just wondering it was it proper practice to open the high pressure side like he did prior to disconnecting? thanks!
Recommend getting your EPA 608 Type II cert. This way you can buy additional refrigerant if needed and legally add in if you have a longer lineset. I studied for a day then did a remote proctored course with Esco Institute. Got my certificate same day. Only installed one mini-split in my cabin so far and needed to add a few ounces refrigerant since my line set was 35 feet and unit only holds enough for 25 ft.
I agree, and technically the EPA says you need it even to do what Will & many other people have done! According to the EPA, even installing the pre-charged lines on a MR Cool DIY unit require it. never heard of anyone getting in trouble though :) From the EPA website regarding 608 certification: Q - "Is technician certification required to install an R-410A mini-split?" A- "Yes. Adding or removing refrigerant from a mini-split as part of installation, and/or connecting or disconnecting hoses or pre-charged lines requires a section 608 technician certification. Activities reasonably expected to violate the integrity of the refrigerant circuit include but are not limited to: Attaching or detaching hoses and gauges to and from the appliance; adding or removing refrigerant; adding or removing components; and cutting the refrigerant line."
Where was the epa to issue emergency vacuum of all the ac systems in the tornado ravaged town. All them systems that just released freon and epa did nothing. Phuck the epa
Will. With reference to your step, opening up the lower valve just a 1/4 turn for 5 secs to bring positive pressure (gauge reading from -30 to 0) before removing the adapter from the port...May work on that brand that you're servicing, but on my Senville mini split, being very careful and doing that(I am a retired Master Electrician), the pressure immediately went to 15 psi) and I was then unable to remove the adapter without purging all the refrigerant. Everything you outlined worked fine but for the Senville unit, folks should skip that 1/4 turn step and just slowly remove the adapter letting pressure out. FYI...Paul
A very informative and straight forward video. Easy to understand even for someone who is not all that handy as a DIYer and to tell the truth a nice video for even a Professional to give them a refresher if they haven't used a vacuum pump in a long while. . Thanks again Will. I always enjoy your videos. straight forward and no BS
Awesome video, couple comments, and suggestions. 1. The big hole for the lines doesn't need to be in the same spot as the template. Move it horizontally to fit your need. I put mine in the middle of the wall mount. 2. I'd run the vacuum pump for at least an hour to remove moisture. 3. If you need to buy an adapter, get one with a valve. That way, you can remove it without losing refrigerant. 4. Check for leaks in the system with it on heat mode. The system will see the highest pressure during heat mode, over 400 psi. 5. Putting sealant on the flare connectors is good practice.
Good tips!! Most split air conditioner are cooling only (talking about globally) USA had for ages those loud inefficient window units, only 2 benefits: widely available and easy to install :-) It's great to see that the USA is slowly moving towards the mini split, and even better that most units have heating as well!!! In Thailand heating can't be found.. cooling only. Strange, as it can get as low as +5c at night (but usually +15 c during cool season,and 25-30c at night during the other seasons. Hot season +40c is getting more normal, 44 c this year.. Mighty warm . No one is thinking about heating options when it's that hot 😂😂
@@fhorst02 its all new. Soon, the units will be ubiquitous: models tweaked for heating efficiency, integrated with water heating, solar and grid tie, have a snap-on connectors, be warranted for self-install, have all sorts of different innovative designs to suit every application, and be competitivly priced and long lasting. Also, the HVAC techs wont run screaming from them.
Great video Will. Been in the HVAC industry since 94 and started by company in 2010 . We do about 20-30 of these a year . The only thing I’ll say is getting parts for these off brand units is very difficult as well as finding a licensed legit contractor to work on customer provided equipment . There will be warranty issues as well for customer installed equipment . Kudos to you taking this on yourself .
Are regular Joes able to get the refrigerant to charge these, or would we have to hire an HVAC pro at the end anyways to charge them? My understanding was that one needs a license to buy the refrigerant, no?
Thank you!! And very good points. Also can be hard to find HVAC companies that will work on them. I found one that does it often, but some others I called won't touch them.
Oh these units come pre charged. You just need to vacuum the lines (check out the video) and then release the refrigerant afterwards. No need to handle to use refrigerant at all in these diy kits
Great that your Demonstrating the installation procedure for a mini split, or standard air conditioner for that matter to the do-it-your selfer. I particularly like that you're pointing out the savings between the units.
Will, thank you so much for all that you do. I just got finished installing my 2nd mini split with the help of this video. Was quoted 5k to install 1 18k and I installed a 12k and 18K for 2k.
3 things: 1) Thank you for the bonus video. Immensely helpful 2) TY for saying look at the blue lineset to see the mist 3) I could totally tell you were under the weather bc your voice was off. (feel better)
I've had 2 pioneer minisplits now for over several years and love them. The first one went on the bumber of my work van and I bought a new one when I got my box truck. They do a super job, I run them off of solar and lifepo4 and it's been great!
Thank you I have watched this numerous times. Helped me install a heat pump hot water system, and I've just finished installing a 7.1kw split air con. All run off solar. Cheers.
Great video teacher, I love you for your patience and ability to teach, I have followed you for a year and with that I have learned and took my family off grid and now you arming me with knowledge to replace my auxiliary window A/C to this system!!!!! Thank you Will
You're like a magician that reveals his tricks! This is the perfect video that I needed for my off grid cabin. I was putting off the mini split until now. I'm ordering all the stuff you recommend immediately...through your affiliate links of course!
Dude you are the best! I have watched a bunch of videos on this and even though I have a Costway unit it was very similar. Your step by step and total coveage helped me a bunch. Thanks again!
One thing he didn't explain when tightening the copper fittings, but which I think he did properly (it was hard to tell) is that the crow foot wrench goes onto the torque wrench at a 90 degree angle, not straight out like you would think. Otherwise you would get an incorrect reading due to the extra length and leverage.
Agree, the methods explained are good an' get the job done. I would add that (for the home gamers that are not sure what the names of these tools are) a flare nut wrench (which may be found as a style of crow foot wrench) is helpful on HVAC and hydraulic fittings. Also, I went the extra measure on a DIY install with a positive pressure nitrogen flush finding some leaks that way - glad I did or it would have meant an extra step of waffling around with adding/removing refrigerant. Cheap line sets may have thin-wall copper tubing not meant for HVAC (and so different diameter and leaked as they would not flare properly). There's less drama when you do eventually find a leak if the system is charged with nitrogen and not refrigerant, but the added cost acquiring a nitrogen tank and pressure regulator with adapters was substantial for a one-off installation.
I don’t understand why pressurizing with nitrogen is any better for leak detection then making sure it can maintain a vacuum. Millions of a/c units have been successfully installed before the nitrogen pressure test became a thing.
@@jbonewitz A system under vacuum is the lack of molecules bouncing around having a good time, and even with sensitive vacuum gauges to determine if there is a leak and not just thermodynamic effects from changing temperatures you're then going to be faffing around for hours or days to find a leak when there is one; contrast to a positive pressure system you can slap some bubble goop on the lines or just listen w/ bit of tubed scope to find where the leak is. "Millions of" yeah no, just no. The old way to do this was whatever welding gas cylinder supply you had available on-hand, the point is to pressurize from a rough vacuum to boil off the moisture to a positive pressure without a phase change (so... no moisture etc) and that is compatible with the condenser and high pressure / low pressure lines and fittings metal composition, to relatively low pressures which is still quite the happening party of molecules bouncing around. I genuinely hope that is helpful for you? This is what we learn in public school middleschool physics, and if you're in the trades you learn it because it saves you time which is a happy customer and you get to keep more of the profits earned.
I have watched multiple installation videos for these mini splits and keep coming back to yours especially on the vacuum procedure. This really helped me and when you said the novice installer had to "commit" I had to laugh a little. There is an art to doing a tutorial and you did well. Thanks!
Another relevant video, I bought something similar, wired and plumbed it all myself and got an Ac guy to purge the lines for a $100. Whole project cost me 1/3 of normal price. I didn't bother with the torque wrench, I just did it up tight and I imagine it would take a very strong ape to over tighten it :) Great video, cooling is no longer a luxury in a brutal heat wave.
Additional Consideration Idea: If the outside wall has ribbed siding, you want to make sure the hole does not go thru a rib, but stays on as flat of a surface as possible, in order to avoid an opening that is harder to seal off from bugs and water.
If you can't avoid the rib, I have cut away a wider box on the exterior to fit in flashing and then caulked in a block of poly trim to act as an exterior vanity plate.
Thank you for posting this!! I just finished installing my first mini split. A 24v direct dc unit from fullbattery. The instruction manual is pretty rough so reading what they were trying to say and then watching what you did gave me exactly the information I needed. You’re a great resource for all of us. I send everybody who asks about solar here and to the forum.
I ordered one of those in Feb of 2014. IT"S BEEN AWESOME. I spent about $700 on it, and I'm in an office I built in my garage cooled by that right now. It had to have the capacitor replaced 2 years ago. I bought the vacuum pump, but chickened out and paid a pro to draw the vacuum. He told me, that a common issue is that consumer grade vacuum pumps can't draw as low a vacuum as the pro equipment can. Get a good one.
Easiest way to mount the inside unit is to tape the template to your wall, drill the anchors holes and the 2.5 inch hole, then remove the template and install the bracket. That way you don't need to measure and you'll have a perfect hole every time.
You watched a lot of videos and did a lot of research to make this install. That UV resistant white sheathing is only rated for 90 days UV resistance. It’s never meant to stay exposed to the atmosphere directly to the sun for long-term. . Good job you have been improving over the years, looking more professional, and getting more steps and procedures correct I’ve been watching you since you lived in your van. From your very first videos.
Hello from Sydney Australia. Thank you for demonstrating how to vacuum the lines before the charging for refrigerant. *Vacuum pump *Set of HVAC gauges *Flairing tool 🌏🇭🇲
Great job explaining the process. I did the Mr. Cool a few years back for a friend for his garage and it installed very quickly. Our codes required an outdoor disconnect so I installed that along with a concrete slab and secured the unit to the slab with tap cons. When I go and do mine, I'll go with the Pioneer or Della and save some coin.
i watched so many videos before i did mine and for some reason you made the whole vaccuming of the lines so simple! i had everything hooked up and was nervous about the whole pump process but after watching your video i did it and it worked amazing. thank you so much!!!
All of your videos are great and I sincerely appreciate your teaching. One note, on the vacuum pump, where the yellow hose is connected, I didn't have the other cap tightened down and so it appeared I had a massive leak. Then when I went back and checked everything I realized that the cap was not tight and that is where my leak was. I hope this little bit of advice from an amature helps.
Great video. Thanks. I think the trimming of the line set is important to improve system efficiency, but if unable, it's worth mentioning that the coils should be laid flat, not set vertical. Vertical coils create low spot traps in every loop which will collect oil. Trapped oil means less oil for your compressor.
I have watched 5 different videos on the DYI. I would like to suggest that the placement of the hose be stressed prior to taping. It is my understanding it should be on the bittom underneath the lines so that condensation can drain properly. Your teaching style is perfect. Just ordered my system and I chose your video as my TEMPLETE. Good Job.
Will, Thanks to you I'm looking to ask Santa for one of these this year, so I can install it in my off-gride solar-powered workshop (also thanks to you). Cheers my friend.
These are great videos, because I’m seriously interested in replacing my HVAC system with several of these units. Thank you for these mini-split videos. Oh, I think that long sleeve sunburn comment was directed at me! You’re still wearing black though. 😊
Good video however you should pull and hold the vacuum for longer, say 30/60. It is also advisable to secure the compressor/condenser prior to installing the the lines thereby minimising stress on connections
I left mine overnight and also filled tbe lines with 300psi of nitrogen overnight to make sure..Then I sucked it down to 20 microns before releasing the freon..Do it right the first time and forget it is my motto.
Nice tutorial! Thank you! I didn't know that those units had refrigerant already in. I thought that you have to pump in your own. Will be installing one next week, so the tutorial was useful.
Just finished installing a Della 18K BTU tonight and its running great. Even though I installed a Mitsubishi myself 12yrs ago, my memory had waned and this video / comments were all the refresher I needed to knock it out. I did run into some confusion with wiring schematic thats delayed my install a couple days. Anything bigger than the 12K BTU units are gonna be 230v, and even though the label on my inverter stated 230V-60Hz AC, the wiring block only had two lugs which the schematic labeled L1 (AC-L) / L2 (AC-N). It took a few tries to get Della support to confirm its just a universal schematic ( EU is one 230V Line Voltage and one Neutral ) and I was good to put both 115v legs to L1 & L2 lugs here in the US.
Those line set covers are nice to have for long term service use. Protects from extreme heat like you’re at +extreme weather including rain\snow. Line set should be off ground anchor to home or if you don’t want to do that I guess you could use some 1-1/2” pieces, a unistrut/super strut with clamps and anchor the strut straight to the concrete with anchor, then use clamps for line set. That would make this DIY a very professional looking install, thank you for sharing and all you do.
Thank you for this very detailed and clear video! This saved me a lot of money by giving me the confidence to perform the vacuum section on my own. Much appreciated!
Thank you Will for this easy to follow video. Just installed mine in our house in Aguascalientes, Mexico. Low humidity here but the daytime high just broke 90.
Will, a great idea for a video would be how to backup/pump down these units for maintenance or moving them. I just learned this is even possible, and there’s not many videos on it.
If its a cold climate always make sure the compressor is above 22°C before turning it on (set power to the outside unit minimum 6 Hours before.) to insure the oil is warm enough in the compressor.
Will, not to be picky, but please show that craw-foot extensions on torque wrenches need to be 90 degree angled to the wrench to cancel the additional length imparted by the craw foot. This will give you accurate torque.
It appears (at 0.25 playback speed) that only once did you have the crow’s foot at a right angle. The other times are not at a right angle, thus you are extending the effective length of the torque wrench lever arm. This requires one to use a correction factor (a multiplier less than 1.0). Not doing this will over torque the fittings, which is what it appears you have done. Unless one understands this, probably not a good idea to suggest using crow’s feet on a torque wrench. Otherwise good video. Thanks. @@WillProwse
Good info thanks Will When you use the flare tool you show removing the nut but never say "make sure the nut is back on before flaring" Just a small thing that could be a pain, although another quick cut and flare would get you back on track. I did this like 8 years ago but just bought another for my rv and forgot the vacuum procedure. Was glad when I saw you had a video about it. Knew I could trust you to have detailed info.
Thanks so much for this video Will. I just followed it from beginning to end in order to set up my new mini split. It worked great! Thank you so much for putting this together.
Great video. I am curious about the power connection to the outside unit though. In the video, it appears that you just ran an extension cord through the wall to power it. If so, there are several problems with this that some DIY people might not be aware of. The first is that the wire is unprotected and extension cords are only rated for temporary use. They are not designed to be exposed to the elements for long periods of time and the jacket will break down on it from UV exposure over time. A "up to code" installation would use THHN wire in watertight conduit. The second concern is that electrical code requires an accessible manual disconnect within sight of the outdoor unit and you don't have that. Finally, if it really is being powered from an extension cord wire, chances are that it is not on a dedicated circuit breaker as code requires. If it is, then you have another problem from running the extension cord wire into the breaker box. None of this is meant to detract from the usefulness of the video. You covered a lot of things that many similar videos miss and did it well...I just think you need to reexamine the power connection to make it safe long-term.
I also had questions about the power connection via power cord in the video. You made very good comments by calling out all the potential risks! They are super helpful! Thank you very much!!
You provide some really great step-by-step instructions your videos are awesome. I've learned a lot that's so much on the heat and air I'm already up on that but pretty much everything else you've done is top-notch
I’m in the middle of getting a split mini and pioneer was one of the firsts I looked at but after doing more research a Mitsubishi or Fujitsu is the way to go for long term reliability
Mitsubishi & LG are the best ! Fujitsu is a lower tier equipment . We install carrier and LG . Servicing them os so much easier than all the other brands .
@@naturecoastprepping2487Which do you think is _the_ best? I like the wifi connectivity aspect so which brand/model with wifi wrt your most favored? Also, 110v(10A or 20A) or 220v?
Thank you, Will for uploading... After watching lots of your Inverter & Battery Videos, I cant pass on your mini split video. Like always, you make it look easy.. I learn a lot from your vids. Godbless you
Nice job. I'd like to do this in my garage. Just a note: Those pressure gages from HF are sized for R134. The gages do read high enough for R410 while running, but barely. It will definitely peg the low side gage when off. If using just as a vacuum gage, it's probably ok. Or use the high side to check positive pressures.
FYI Most heat pumps only have enough refrigerant for line-sets under 25 feet (check the specs), if you need a line-set over that you’ll need to add more refrigerant. I installed a ton of these systems for growers here in Michigan. A client of mine had a bull $hit artist do his with a 50 foot line-set without adding refrigerant and it burned out the pump. (Will covers this) Also the purpose of vacuuming out the line-set is for leak testing and removing moisture from the system. Vac it out and let it set for 20-30 min before opening up the valve if the needle don’t move then let it rip!
Yes, they usually are shipped with a 4 meter long tube. You can buy longer, it's not adviced to extend them with couplers, brazing only (with CO2 to avoid carbon buildup in the lines) That said... I never had leaks extending with couplings, combined with loctite blue (or nylog) Specification will tell maximal tube length, usually 8-10 meters. Even if you would top up the refrigerant to compensate for the additional length.. there are limits. 50 foot / 15 meters is absurd. Even with refilling, the pump would have crashed... There is a maximal tube length, usually never over 10 meters!!! (33 feet)
Get a pump, open ended torque wrench, nylog blue, flare seals (great for nubbies), big blue microleak spray. Trust me, get all of them, especially the flare seals, it makes leaks far less likely.
This is the one we have in our offgrid art studio/shed (the pioneer). The 9k btu unit. It’s been through two Texas summers now. It’s fed by 1200 watts of panels that produce about 6.5kw/day. We have a 24v system with epever 80amp charge controller, and 5kw of powerqueen lifepo4 batteries. Even in the summer we start it up at about 83f, at 9am, and it runs all day on Solar from a 4000 watt inverter. The S/O, then turns it down when she is inside working to about 75f. Solid product. It maxes out at about 1000 watts at full bore. We’re about $3500 in with the while system, mini-split/solar system. It’s earned back about $150.00 in the first year and a half of use.
Really good video! Thanks for all the info. Your methods make so much sense and are better than others on UA-cam. You could have explained the wiring a little better but I got it 👍🙏
17:34 you can use some duct tape to hold back the insulation temporarily so it's out of your way while flaring. Don't forget to put the nut on the pipe before you flare ! :)
Awesome, I was just looking into ordering the Della today and then you posted this video. So I'm going to order it as soon as I get home. Thanks for the video very helpful indeed. You should do a video on how to connect this unit to solar then I'd be eternally grateful . I'm installing this in an RV, hope it works out. Thanks again, your the best Will.
@@WillProwse I'm new to solar power, how big of a system would you recommend for running this unit, I'm located in southern Texas so there is plenty of sun.
I installed my Pioneer Ultra and I love it, it is incredibly efficient and I will always have the tools to install/maintain these units. I used a digital CPS guage and a valve core removal tool to get a really good vacuum.
Parts list and mini splits mentioned in the video (affiliate links):
Pioneer Mini Split: amzn.to/3Og7VZf
Budget Della Mini Split (same product as pioneer but cheaper!): amzn.to/3XQlLoF
Vacuum pump and gauges: amzn.to/3Qh43Jh
Electronic torque wrench: amzn.to/3DdZpUq
Or you can use a traditional torque wrench and these adapters, like I did in the video: amzn.to/3pPdqoq
Nylog to prevent leaks on the connection points: amzn.to/44JI15N
Leak Detector Spray: amzn.to/3OhlEz8
Adapters for hose to service port: amzn.to/3Ohssgj
EG4 Plug-N-Cool 12K: signaturesolar.com/eg4-12k-mini-split-air-conditioner-heat-pump-12000-btu-seer2-28-5-plug-n-cool-do-it-yourself-installation/?ref=cPwLcVc0SW-BjN
EG4 Plug-N-Cool 9K (even higher efficiency!): signaturesolar.com/eg4-9k-mini-split-air-conditioner-heat-pump-9000-btu-seer2-29-5-plug-n-cool-do-it-yourself-installation/?ref=cPwLcVc0SW-BjN
AC/DC Plug-N-Cool 24K: signaturesolar.com/eg4-hybrid-ac-dc-solar-air-conditioner-2-ton/?ref=cPwLcVc0SW-BjN
Mr. Cool 12-36K Quick Connect: www.currentconnected.com/product/mrcool-mini-split-air-conditioner-diy/?ref=wp
0:00 Intro
0:37 Unboxing
1:35 Indoor Unit
6:35 Outdoor Lineset
8:25 Vacuum Procedure
14:29 Final Steps
16:02 Bonus Section! Special Tools and Flare Tool Tutorial
*Does off-grid solar confuse you?*
Check out my DIY friendly website for solar system packages and product recommendations, and so much more!
www.mobile-solarpower.com
*Join our DIY solar community*
#1 largest solar forum on the internet for beginners and professionals alike:
www.diysolarforum.com
*Check out my Book*
Best-selling and beginner-friendly guide to 12V off-grid solar!
amzn.to/2Aj4dX4
If DIY is not for you, but you love solar and need an offgrid system, check out Tesla Energy! They will price out a system and get your house offgrid: ts.la/william57509
*My DIY Solar Equipment Recommendations (Constantly updated! Check here first):*
12V/48V Lithium Solar Batteries: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solar-batteries.html
Complete Solar System Component Directory: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solarcomponents.html
Complete 48V System Blueprint: www.mobile-solarpower.com/48v-complete-system-blueprint.html
Plug-N-Play System Recommendations: www.mobile-solarpower.com/full-size-systems.html
Complete "Add to Cart" 48V System Kits: www.mobile-solarpower.com/complete-48v-solar-kits.html
DIY Friendly Air Conditioner/ Heat Pumps: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solar-friendly-air-conditioners.html
*My Favorite Online Stores for DIY Solar Products:*
*Signature Solar*
Offgrid One-Stop-Shop. Best Value 48V LiFePO4, Victron and Offgrid Specific Heat Pumps:
www.signaturesolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek
*Current Connected*
SOK, Victron, Mr.Cool Heatpumps and High Quality Components. Fantastic customer support:
currentconnected.com/?ref=wp
*Litime*
My favorite 12V budget battery!:
www.litime.com/?ref=XBIA62RFcalHns
*Epoch Batteries*
My favorite high-quality 12V battery:
www.epochbatteries.com/products/12v-460ah-lifepo4-battery-ip67-heated-bluetooth-victron-comms?rfsn=7352625.50494d
*Renogy*
A classic 12V solar store that has been around for ages! DC to DC Chargers and more!
renogy.sjv.io/n1VjXx
*Rich Solar*
Renogy's biggest competitor! Similar products, but at a better price:
richsolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek
*Battery Hookup*
Cheap cell deals
bit.ly/2mIxSqt
5% off code: diysolar
*Contact Information:*
I am NOT available for personal solar system consult! If you wish to contact me, this is my direct email: williamprowsediysolar@gmail.com
Join the forum at diysolarforum.com/ if you wish to hang out with myself and others and talk about solar
*FTC Disclosure Statement and Disclaimers:*
Every video includes some form of paid promotion or sponsorship. Some links on this youtube channel may be affiliate links. We may get paid if you buy something or take an action after clicking one of these. My videos are for educational purposes only. Information is subject to change/update at any time. Electricity is DANGEROUS and can kill. Be smart and use common sense :)
DIY Solar Power with Will Prowse is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program,
An affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com
Will or anyone who knows to answer please 🙏
Hey Will love your content. About to buy MPP Solar 2724 LV-MR. Can't download the manual so just wanted to know can the inverter be turned off for AC when not in use? I'm building a system for my van mainly for 24/12V.. I know that inverter draws 24W.
Also 4 150W panels with VOC of 42.74 I'll wire parallel and s/b about 17 amps at max and VOC 42.74. Is that going to make for a good system? ( 2 100AH 24V SOK batteries..)
@@Monyornothin
You could also get Mr. Cool Mini-Slip their Ines are pre done so no vacuum is needed!
Link for the flare tool?
@@terryrodbourn2793 yes you can but for those that do not like all the extra Lineset and want to shorten it and flare it this is a good video explaining how this is done.
@@terryrodbourn2793like $500 more too, he says that. Did you watch the video.
It’s better to wrap the UV tape from the bottom up. If you wrap from top down it can let water in through the over laps. Think of it like shingles.
Oh interesting
That makes sense, I now live in a wet state and have to think about things like this.
Since it rarely rains in Las Vegas I'd bet that Will will probably be ok.
@@joelhansen7373 very true 😂
@@joelhansen7373yes. true vegas hardly gets rain, but, Will makes videos to help teach other people. so the direction of wrap is a good point
Your presentation on connecting/disconnecting the gauges, vacuum pump, vacuuming the system, and checking for leaks is the best I have seen on the internet. You knocked it out of the park.
Thank you!!!!
@@WillProwse Seriously, that was the best and most concise explanation I've seen, too. I'm here doing a refresher for my second mini-split install, and I really appreciate the clean delivery--it's way better than anything we had a few years ago! You might want to consider cutting and pasting that chapter (vacuum procedure) into its own video for indexing and posterity.
Absolutely great video work. Thanks.
And here's your like, 👍which I barely ever give out!
Just put in the Della early last week. Already had the vacuum pump so it was super cheap. I welded my own frame for an overhead side mount (roof). At 20 SEER they are super efficient and incredibly powerful. After installing the second one I can't set them under 73 or my house gets too cold. All this when temps here have'nt gone under 100F for the past two weeks. And they heat well in the winter. With my solar panels being installed next week it all came together beautifully. Thanks for inspiring me to get it all done.
That's awesome!!!!
You are an excellent instructor. As an HVAC tech I kind of wish you didn't help people to do my job, but you did a great job!
Thanks 😁😁
I will fuck it up time and time again until I learn, before calling a professional 😂😂😂
Just an FYI, if your vacuum rises a tiny bit then stops, that's okay. Run the vacuum pump again until you're back to zero. What happens is that as you pull the vacuum, water vapor in the line will condense and then freeze. Ice will not vacuum out. But as the lineset warms up and the water evaporates (sublimates, actually), it will cause the vacuum in your line to drop. Will didn't have to deal with this because he's in a desert, but if you're in the southeast you will see it.
Oh that's interesting. Thanks for sharing that
This is why the manufacturer recommends a teipple vac/nitrogen flash sequence.
Moisture crystals in the system get heated and flushed out with the nitrogen purging sequences.
Lotsa tricks we pros use.
I'm in southern west virginia. Been vacuuming for 15 mins now and vapor still coming out. I don't have any nitrogen to use so what do I do?
I just ordered my Della and everything you recommended tonight Will . You do a tremendous public service to those of us who are handy with tools. I was quoted $3200 to install a similar unit. I may be old but i am not stupid, thanks Will.
well you will need cable . circuit breaker, drain hose, and the trunking for the lines. the more expensive units are more efficient and will pay for the difference in energy costs in a few years .
@@STRUTZKOFF $50 for cable ,already had cutoff box, $30 for circuit breaker, vacuum pump and gauges $150 , FIVE HOURS INSTALL FOR FREE AND IT WORKS EVEN BETTER THAN I IMAGINED . So what is your beef ? unemployed A/C GUY ?
@@Channel-gz9hmImagine what the price of oil and electricity will be after war breaks out and straights of Hormuz are closed. You can get a 25.5 SEER2 for $1150 which is about the same as a 33 SEER.
Thanks so much for re-posting. I was leaving a thank you comment on the last one when it disappeared. You are a consummate professional, Will, to take one down, update it or do it over, and post again. I appreciate your honesty and all the effort you make to teach us. I'm a novice at this, so your instruction is needed. Can't say I don't wish you were my neighbor so I could offer to hire you to look over my shoulder, making sure I do it right.
Great video. I've watched dozens of these mini split installation videos. You are the first one that used "positive pressure" from the unit before you removed the gauge lines. What a great idea!
Great Video. I have a Pioneer unit that is about 10 years old. I did not have the HVAC tools, but I installed it all myself and had an HVAC tech friend come over to vacuum it and release the refrigerant. I've never had a problem with it and have been very pleased.
That's what I did too. You get a proper nitrogen purge as well, plus he'll have a fancy leak detector and good valve core remover. Even ends up being cheaper when you're only doing 1 or 2.
I'd only go full DIY if I was fitting out a whole apartment complex or something
@@motog6436 Do you remember what you paid per unit? I'll have 4 or 5 of these to do on a new property I'm developing, so I figured the DIY route would save me some money, but maybe not? And any idea if you get the factory warranty going this route, or would the tech need to actually do everything Will's doing in the video? The Mitsubishi unit I bought recently, and I think most on the market that aren't called "DIY" require an HVAC tech to sign off that they did the installation in order for the manufacturer to honor the warranty.
@@TroyWarr1980if you are doing several, the proper tools and supplies will save you money and make it so you can do more in the future, or sell the tools on marketplace…
I am a pro installer in Charlotte NC… I left a lot of critiques for Will in the comments.
I’m happy to list what you need to do the job right on your own.
@@SuperVstech can you post a video of how to do what I did on a budget? And I responded to everything you mentioned.and People will not spend money on the fancy HVAC gear if they can just buy a mr.cool or EG4 with quick connects.
@@TroyWarr1980 the Mr. Cool doesn't have to be installed by a professional and still has a killer warranty for diy. They just cost a lot.
Put in my first Pioneer 7 years ago DIY style, I now have 3 + 1 multi split. Because these are so efficient the solar system I just installed was very affordable and the overall system, Mini Splits + Solar, works great! Power company is going to think I'm on long term vacation.
Great tips! More tips for the viewers: Get an "inverter type" / variable speed compressor. This is more efficient than "all on, all off" type... Get a heat pump if you also want to run it in reverse and pump heat inside. If you do, you will also need a drain line on the outdoor unit. There is also a service adapter valve kit that allows you to connect your pressure gauge behind a valve so you can turn off the valve before removing the gauge set. Basically a valve for your lines. Wear a hat if you work in the full midday sun... I usually discard the stock insulation and replace it with better and thicker pipe insulation, slid on prior to install. If you need to run longer lines, the manual will tell you how much more refrigerant to add, if so, and what the max run and heights are...
Those are manufactured by Midea. Like most Chinese manufactured devices they all use similar components, just different revisions. If you ever question who the manufacture is do a reverse image search of the remote / thermostat. Once you have that info finding parts is a lot simpler. Most of those line sets have terrible factory flares. I would recommend reflaring all of them when doing an install. Eccentric flaring tools are pretty much mandatory to use to get a leak free seal. A lot of people will coil the extra line set behind the unit, this is bad for two reasons. One it serves as a oil trap preventing any oil to get back to the condenser. Two it can block airflow through the condenser. The install in the video was very clean. 👍
Love your passion for helping people. Have followed since...... forever! You've never changed! Thank you for helping so many and doing it so selflessly and with great joy. It's very appreciated in these times for sure. Stay well Will!!
One note of warning. The pre-loaded refrigerant is metered specifically for the length of lineset included with the kit. When cutting the lineset short make sure to refer to the manual so that you don't have too much refrigerant for the amount of lineset. A professional HVAC technician can adjust your refrigerant if needed.
@@Channel-gz9hmmost units just say don't cut your lines shorter than 15 ft and if you go longer than 25ft per zone you must add refrigerant by weighing it in.
Im not an hvac guy, just a lowly plumber.. but i thought "i wonder if its been preloaded based on the length of lineset".. thanks for confirming this! also, just wondering it was it proper practice to open the high pressure side like he did prior to disconnecting? thanks!
Glad to see this re-posted, Will, with all the technical info on the refrigerant lines brought up to spec. Looks good.
Recommend getting your EPA 608 Type II cert. This way you can buy additional refrigerant if needed and legally add in if you have a longer lineset. I studied for a day then did a remote proctored course with Esco Institute. Got my certificate same day. Only installed one mini-split in my cabin so far and needed to add a few ounces refrigerant since my line set was 35 feet and unit only holds enough for 25 ft.
I agree, and technically the EPA says you need it even to do what Will & many other people have done! According to the EPA, even installing the pre-charged lines on a MR Cool DIY unit require it. never heard of anyone getting in trouble though :)
From the EPA website regarding 608 certification:
Q - "Is technician certification required to install an R-410A mini-split?"
A- "Yes. Adding or removing refrigerant from a mini-split as part of installation, and/or connecting or disconnecting hoses or pre-charged lines requires a section 608 technician certification. Activities reasonably expected to violate the integrity of the refrigerant circuit include but are not limited to: Attaching or detaching hoses and gauges to and from the appliance; adding or removing refrigerant; adding or removing components; and cutting the refrigerant line."
@@Channel-gz9hm He added and disconnected hoses to pull a vacuum. "Attaching and detaching hoses and gauges".
@@Channel-gz9hm read: "....and/or connecting or disconnecting hoses, or pre-charged lines" ssssh!
Where was the epa to issue emergency vacuum of all the ac systems in the tornado ravaged town. All them systems that just released freon and epa did nothing. Phuck the epa
Will. With reference to your step, opening up the lower valve just a 1/4 turn for 5 secs to bring positive pressure (gauge reading from -30 to 0) before removing the adapter from the port...May work on that brand that you're servicing, but on my Senville mini split, being very careful and doing that(I am a retired Master Electrician), the pressure immediately went to 15 psi) and I was then unable to remove the adapter without purging all the refrigerant. Everything you outlined worked fine but for the Senville unit, folks should skip that 1/4 turn step and just slowly remove the adapter letting pressure out. FYI...Paul
A very informative and straight forward video. Easy to understand even for someone who is not all that handy as a DIYer and to tell the truth a nice video for even a Professional to give them a refresher if they haven't used a vacuum pump in a long while. . Thanks again Will. I always enjoy your videos. straight forward and no BS
Awesome video, couple comments, and suggestions.
1. The big hole for the lines doesn't need to be in the same spot as the template. Move it horizontally to fit your need. I put mine in the middle of the wall mount.
2. I'd run the vacuum pump for at least an hour to remove moisture.
3. If you need to buy an adapter, get one with a valve. That way, you can remove it without losing refrigerant.
4. Check for leaks in the system with it on heat mode. The system will see the highest pressure during heat mode, over 400 psi.
5. Putting sealant on the flare connectors is good practice.
Good tips!!
Most split air conditioner are cooling only (talking about globally) USA had for ages those loud inefficient window units, only 2 benefits: widely available and easy to install :-)
It's great to see that the USA is slowly moving towards the mini split, and even better that most units have heating as well!!!
In Thailand heating can't be found.. cooling only.
Strange, as it can get as low as +5c at night (but usually +15 c during cool season,and 25-30c at night during the other seasons.
Hot season +40c is getting more normal, 44 c this year..
Mighty warm .
No one is thinking about heating options when it's that hot 😂😂
@@fhorst02 its all new. Soon, the units will be ubiquitous: models tweaked for heating efficiency, integrated with water heating, solar and grid tie, have a snap-on connectors, be warranted for self-install, have all sorts of different innovative designs to suit every application, and be competitivly priced and long lasting. Also, the HVAC techs wont run screaming from them.
Great video Will. Been in the HVAC industry since 94 and started by company in 2010 . We do about 20-30 of these a year . The only thing I’ll say is getting parts for these off brand units is very difficult as well as finding a licensed legit contractor to work on customer provided equipment . There will be warranty issues as well for customer installed equipment . Kudos to you taking this on yourself .
Are regular Joes able to get the refrigerant to charge these, or would we have to hire an HVAC pro at the end anyways to charge them? My understanding was that one needs a license to buy the refrigerant, no?
Thank you!! And very good points. Also can be hard to find HVAC companies that will work on them. I found one that does it often, but some others I called won't touch them.
@@TroyWarr1980 NO, you have to be EPA certified to work w refrigerant .
Oh these units come pre charged. You just need to vacuum the lines (check out the video) and then release the refrigerant afterwards. No need to handle to use refrigerant at all in these diy kits
@@WillProwse😂 I have same exact one, I never pulled a vacuum on it, and it still works perfectly 3yrs later .... 👍🏿
Great that your Demonstrating the installation procedure for a mini split, or standard air conditioner for that matter to the do-it-your selfer. I particularly like that you're pointing out the savings between the units.
Will, thank you so much for all that you do. I just got finished installing my 2nd mini split with the help of this video. Was quoted 5k to install 1 18k and I installed a 12k and 18K for 2k.
3 things: 1) Thank you for the bonus video. Immensely helpful 2) TY for saying look at the blue lineset to see the mist 3) I could totally tell you were under the weather bc your voice was off. (feel better)
I've had 2 pioneer minisplits now for over several years and love them. The first one went on the bumber of my work van and I bought a new one when I got my box truck. They do a super job, I run them off of solar and lifepo4 and it's been great!
Wow, I am putting in a Pioneer in a couple of weeks and I can already tell how incredibly useful this video will be. Thank you, Will!
Thank you I have watched this numerous times. Helped me install a heat pump hot water system, and I've just finished installing a 7.1kw split air con. All run off solar. Cheers.
I watched at least a dozen videos in this before I found yours.
Yours is hands down the most question answering one of them all.
Thanks Bud!
Great video teacher, I love you for your patience and ability to teach, I have followed you for a year and with that I have learned and took my family off grid and now you arming me with knowledge to replace my auxiliary window A/C to this system!!!!! Thank you Will
You're like a magician that reveals his tricks! This is the perfect video that I needed for my off grid cabin. I was putting off the mini split until now. I'm ordering all the stuff you recommend immediately...through your affiliate links of course!
I'm glad I can help, your off grid cabin will be awesome!! And thank you :)
Thanks for this instructional hands on, verbal, & precise instructions!
Dude you are the best! I have watched a bunch of videos on this and even though I have a Costway unit it was very similar. Your step by step and total coveage helped me a bunch. Thanks again!
One thing he didn't explain when tightening the copper fittings, but which I think he did properly (it was hard to tell) is that the crow foot wrench goes onto the torque wrench at a 90 degree angle, not straight out like you would think. Otherwise you would get an incorrect reading due to the extra length and leverage.
Agree, the methods explained are good an' get the job done. I would add that (for the home gamers that are not sure what the names of these tools are) a flare nut wrench (which may be found as a style of crow foot wrench) is helpful on HVAC and hydraulic fittings. Also, I went the extra measure on a DIY install with a positive pressure nitrogen flush finding some leaks that way - glad I did or it would have meant an extra step of waffling around with adding/removing refrigerant. Cheap line sets may have thin-wall copper tubing not meant for HVAC (and so different diameter and leaked as they would not flare properly). There's less drama when you do eventually find a leak if the system is charged with nitrogen and not refrigerant, but the added cost acquiring a nitrogen tank and pressure regulator with adapters was substantial for a one-off installation.
Was looking to see if anyone made this exact comment, not to be mean but to help ppl out.
I don’t understand why pressurizing with nitrogen is any better for leak detection then making sure it can maintain a vacuum. Millions of a/c units have been successfully installed before the nitrogen pressure test became a thing.
@@jbonewitz A system under vacuum is the lack of molecules bouncing around having a good time, and even with sensitive vacuum gauges to determine if there is a leak and not just thermodynamic effects from changing temperatures you're then going to be faffing around for hours or days to find a leak when there is one; contrast to a positive pressure system you can slap some bubble goop on the lines or just listen w/ bit of tubed scope to find where the leak is. "Millions of" yeah no, just no. The old way to do this was whatever welding gas cylinder supply you had available on-hand, the point is to pressurize from a rough vacuum to boil off the moisture to a positive pressure without a phase change (so... no moisture etc) and that is compatible with the condenser and high pressure / low pressure lines and fittings metal composition, to relatively low pressures which is still quite the happening party of molecules bouncing around. I genuinely hope that is helpful for you? This is what we learn in public school middleschool physics, and if you're in the trades you learn it because it saves you time which is a happy customer and you get to keep more of the profits earned.
@@nicerideKwik e vac cans use dry nitrogen would that work?
Definitely the best mini split install I've seen. Short and to the point. Nice job Will.
Been watching your videos for years; this one is just another example of your fine work. Thanks!
I have watched multiple installation videos for these mini splits and keep coming back to yours especially on the vacuum procedure. This really helped me and when you said the novice installer had to "commit" I had to laugh a little. There is an art to doing a tutorial and you did well. Thanks!
Awesome video! You have de-mystified mini-split installation. Clear steps, closeups, tool list, thanks, Will.
Another relevant video, I bought something similar, wired and plumbed it all myself and got an Ac guy to purge the lines for a $100. Whole project cost me 1/3 of normal price. I didn't bother with the torque wrench, I just did it up tight and I imagine it would take a very strong ape to over tighten it :) Great video, cooling is no longer a luxury in a brutal heat wave.
Additional Consideration Idea:
If the outside wall has ribbed siding, you want to make sure the hole does not go thru a rib, but stays on as flat of a surface as possible, in order to avoid an opening that is harder to seal off from bugs and water.
Good point
If you can't avoid the rib, I have cut away a wider box on the exterior to fit in flashing and then caulked in a block of poly trim to act as an exterior vanity plate.
Thank you for posting this!! I just finished installing my first mini split. A 24v direct dc unit from fullbattery. The instruction manual is pretty rough so reading what they were trying to say and then watching what you did gave me exactly the information I needed. You’re a great resource for all of us. I send everybody who asks about solar here and to the forum.
I’ve watched all the videos. Your video is the most detailed explaining how to use the gauges and vacuum pump. Nice video.
I ordered one of those in Feb of 2014. IT"S BEEN AWESOME. I spent about $700 on it, and I'm in an office I built in my garage cooled by that right now. It had to have the capacitor replaced 2 years ago.
I bought the vacuum pump, but chickened out and paid a pro to draw the vacuum. He told me, that a common issue is that consumer grade vacuum pumps can't draw as low a vacuum as the pro equipment can. Get a good one.
Easiest way to mount the inside unit is to tape the template to your wall, drill the anchors holes and the 2.5 inch hole, then remove the template and install the bracket. That way you don't need to measure and you'll have a perfect hole every time.
You watched a lot of videos and did a lot of research to make this install.
That UV resistant white sheathing is only rated for 90 days UV resistance. It’s never meant to stay exposed to the atmosphere directly to the sun for long-term. .
Good job you have been improving over the years, looking more professional, and getting more steps and procedures correct I’ve been watching you since you lived in your van. From your very first videos.
Man you made that look simple and it was well explained I literally have no questions whatsoever. I can do this!
Hello from Sydney Australia.
Thank you for demonstrating how to vacuum the lines before the charging for refrigerant.
*Vacuum pump
*Set of HVAC gauges
*Flairing tool
🌏🇭🇲
Great job explaining the process. I did the Mr. Cool a few years back for a friend for his garage and it installed very quickly. Our codes required an outdoor disconnect so I installed that along with a concrete slab and secured the unit to the slab with tap cons. When I go and do mine, I'll go with the Pioneer or Della and save some coin.
This was a perfect breakdown of how to do it. Thank you for demystifying things regarding the lines for me.
i watched so many videos before i did mine and for some reason you made the whole vaccuming of the lines so simple! i had everything hooked up and was nervous about the whole pump process but after watching your video i did it and it worked amazing. thank you so much!!!
Awesome! Glad I can help
All of your videos are great and I sincerely appreciate your teaching. One note, on the vacuum pump, where the yellow hose is connected, I didn't have the other cap tightened down and so it appeared I had a massive leak. Then when I went back and checked everything I realized that the cap was not tight and that is where my leak was. I hope this little bit of advice from an amature helps.
Great video. Thanks. I think the trimming of the line set is important to improve system efficiency, but if unable, it's worth mentioning that the coils should be laid flat, not set vertical. Vertical coils create low spot traps in every loop which will collect oil. Trapped oil means less oil for your compressor.
Great install video. The crow's feet attachments for using existing torque wrenches are a really nice touch.
Your channel is my favorite when it comes to diy electrical. You’re a great teacher. Thanks!
Nice video. Brought back memories of doing this stuff with my dad who was in HVAC for 40 years 😁
Thanks! This is sure one of the BEST installation instruction for mini split AC ever on UA-cam❤
One of the better videos I’ve seen so far. Great video thanks, I feel more confident in installing my unit now
I have watched 5 different videos on the DYI. I would like to suggest that the placement of the hose be stressed prior to taping. It is my understanding it should be on the bittom underneath the lines so that condensation can drain properly. Your teaching style is perfect. Just ordered my system and I chose your video as my TEMPLETE. Good Job.
Will,
Thanks to you I'm looking to ask Santa for one of these this year, so I can install it in my off-gride solar-powered workshop (also thanks to you).
Cheers my friend.
These are great videos, because I’m seriously interested in replacing my HVAC system with several of these units. Thank you for these mini-split videos.
Oh, I think that long sleeve sunburn comment was directed at me! You’re still wearing black though. 😊
Thanks to you, I installed my own della mini split and a 3000 watt renogy solar system. Thanks again.
Good video however you should pull and hold the vacuum for longer, say 30/60. It is also advisable to secure the compressor/condenser prior to installing the the lines thereby minimising stress on connections
I left mine overnight and also filled tbe lines with 300psi of nitrogen overnight to make sure..Then I sucked it down to 20 microns before releasing the freon..Do it right the first time and forget it is my motto.
Nice tutorial! Thank you! I didn't know that those units had refrigerant already in. I thought that you have to pump in your own. Will be installing one next week, so the tutorial was useful.
Just finished installing a Della 18K BTU tonight and its running great. Even though I installed a Mitsubishi myself 12yrs ago, my memory had waned and this video / comments were all the refresher I needed to knock it out. I did run into some confusion with wiring schematic thats delayed my install a couple days. Anything bigger than the 12K BTU units are gonna be 230v, and even though the label on my inverter stated 230V-60Hz AC, the wiring block only had two lugs which the schematic labeled L1 (AC-L) / L2 (AC-N). It took a few tries to get Della support to confirm its just a universal schematic ( EU is one 230V Line Voltage and one Neutral ) and I was good to put both 115v legs to L1 & L2 lugs here in the US.
There are many similar videos, but yours explains the pressure and vacuum process so well. Thank you!
Those line set covers are nice to have for long term service use. Protects from extreme heat like you’re at +extreme weather including rain\snow.
Line set should be off ground anchor to home or if you don’t want to do that I guess you could use some 1-1/2” pieces, a unistrut/super strut with clamps and anchor the strut straight to the concrete with anchor, then use clamps for line set.
That would make this DIY a very professional looking install, thank you for sharing and all you do.
Will, thank you for taking the time to research the different products & tools. Keep up the good work.
Love this, may do my own mini-split next year, I even have a spare vacuum pump from my freeze dryer, the Harvest Right Premier pump...
Thank you for this very detailed and clear video! This saved me a lot of money by giving me the confidence to perform the vacuum section on my own. Much appreciated!
Thank you Will for this easy to follow video. Just installed mine in our house in Aguascalientes, Mexico. Low humidity here but the daytime high just broke 90.
Excellent video. What I like is you explain and show in detail every single step.
Will, a great idea for a video would be how to backup/pump down these units for maintenance or moving them. I just learned this is even possible, and there’s not many videos on it.
I recommend leak testing it in heating mode(20 - 42 bar) instead of cooling mode(5 - 12 bar). Otherwise this is the best tutorial I have seen. Thanks.
If its a cold climate always make sure the compressor is above 22°C before turning it on (set power to the outside unit minimum 6 Hours before.) to insure the oil is warm enough in the compressor.
Will, not to be picky, but please show that craw-foot extensions on torque wrenches need to be 90 degree angled to the wrench to cancel the additional length imparted by the craw foot. This will give you accurate torque.
Good point. I do the first passes at 180, then last one at 90. Should have mentioned that
It appears (at 0.25 playback speed) that only once did you have the crow’s foot at a right angle.
The other times are not at a right angle, thus you are extending the effective length of the torque wrench lever arm. This requires one to use a correction factor (a multiplier less than 1.0). Not doing this will over torque the fittings, which is what it appears you have done. Unless one understands this, probably not a good idea to suggest using crow’s feet on a torque wrench.
Otherwise good video. Thanks. @@WillProwse
Excellent job! This was very helpful. Thank you!!
Great job dude. I too have done this myself. You did a great job explaining everything 👍👍
Thank you so much! Your Video gave me a lot of confidence and guidance. People like you keep the internet alive :)
Good info thanks Will
When you use the flare tool you show removing the nut but never say "make sure the nut is back on before flaring"
Just a small thing that could be a pain, although another quick cut and flare would get you back on track.
I did this like 8 years ago but just bought another for my rv and forgot the vacuum procedure.
Was glad when I saw you had a video about it. Knew I could trust you to have detailed info.
I've done 3 of these. The first one leaked after 5 years. I made sure to use Nylog Blue on the last two to help prevent leaks.
Thanks so much for this video Will. I just followed it from beginning to end in order to set up my new mini split. It worked great! Thank you so much for putting this together.
Great video. I am curious about the power connection to the outside unit though. In the video, it appears that you just ran an extension cord through the wall to power it. If so, there are several problems with this that some DIY people might not be aware of. The first is that the wire is unprotected and extension cords are only rated for temporary use. They are not designed to be exposed to the elements for long periods of time and the jacket will break down on it from UV exposure over time. A "up to code" installation would use THHN wire in watertight conduit. The second concern is that electrical code requires an accessible manual disconnect within sight of the outdoor unit and you don't have that. Finally, if it really is being powered from an extension cord wire, chances are that it is not on a dedicated circuit breaker as code requires. If it is, then you have another problem from running the extension cord wire into the breaker box.
None of this is meant to detract from the usefulness of the video. You covered a lot of things that many similar videos miss and did it well...I just think you need to reexamine the power connection to make it safe long-term.
I also had questions about the power connection via power cord in the video. You made very good comments by calling out all the potential risks! They are super helpful! Thank you very much!!
You provide some really great step-by-step instructions your videos are awesome. I've learned a lot that's so much on the heat and air I'm already up on that but pretty much everything else you've done is top-notch
I’m in the middle of getting a split mini and pioneer was one of the firsts I looked at but after doing more research a Mitsubishi or Fujitsu is the way to go for long term reliability
Mitsubishi & LG are the best ! Fujitsu is a lower tier equipment . We install carrier and LG . Servicing them os so much easier than all the other brands .
@@naturecoastprepping2487Which do you think is _the_ best? I like the wifi connectivity aspect so which brand/model with wifi wrt your most favored?
Also, 110v(10A or 20A) or 220v?
What is the installation procedure like for the Mitsubishi compared to these DIY units?
They are very expensive.
Thank you, Will for uploading... After watching lots of your Inverter & Battery Videos, I cant pass on your mini split video.
Like always, you make it look easy..
I learn a lot from your vids.
Godbless you
Nice job. I'd like to do this in my garage.
Just a note: Those pressure gages from HF are sized for R134. The gages do read high enough for R410 while running, but barely. It will definitely peg the low side gage when off. If using just as a vacuum gage, it's probably ok. Or use the high side to check positive pressures.
Yes, just using for vacuum and positive pressure only.
Good tip!!
I've done the same with my R32 ...
I Did It! Excellent instructions pointing out the key things to look out for.
Lovely! Exactly what I was looking for. Installing a Cooper and Hunter AC.
FYI Most heat pumps only have enough refrigerant for line-sets under 25 feet (check the specs), if you need a line-set over that you’ll need to add more refrigerant.
I installed a ton of these systems for growers here in Michigan. A client of mine had a bull $hit artist do his with a 50 foot line-set without adding refrigerant and it burned out the pump.
(Will covers this) Also the purpose of vacuuming out the line-set is for leak testing and removing moisture from the system. Vac it out and let it set for 20-30 min before opening up the valve if the needle don’t move then let it rip!
Yes, they usually are shipped with a 4 meter long tube.
You can buy longer, it's not adviced to extend them with couplers, brazing only (with CO2 to avoid carbon buildup in the lines)
That said... I never had leaks extending with couplings, combined with loctite blue (or nylog)
Specification will tell maximal tube length, usually 8-10 meters.
Even if you would top up the refrigerant to compensate for the additional length.. there are limits.
50 foot / 15 meters is absurd.
Even with refilling, the pump would have crashed...
There is a maximal tube length, usually never over 10 meters!!! (33 feet)
@@fhorst02 Conversely, if you have to cut the tube length in half, do you have to release refrigerant to compensate?
Great video, Will. This Vegas heat is killing me! 🔥
Pretty cool how you started with a Pioneer heat pump and ended with a Delta brand - Still Great Information! Thanks
No idea why we watched this start to finish but it was super captivating and interesting! Now back to RV specific content for us! haha
I think I'm going to order a Della for my skoolie... Thanks for showing how easy this is!
Get a pump, open ended torque wrench, nylog blue, flare seals (great for nubbies), big blue microleak spray. Trust me, get all of them, especially the flare seals, it makes leaks far less likely.
This is the one we have in our offgrid art studio/shed (the pioneer). The 9k btu unit. It’s been through two Texas summers now. It’s fed by 1200 watts of panels that produce about 6.5kw/day. We have a 24v system with epever 80amp charge controller, and 5kw of powerqueen lifepo4 batteries. Even in the summer we start it up at about 83f, at 9am, and it runs all day on Solar from a 4000 watt inverter. The S/O, then turns it down when she is inside working to about 75f. Solid product. It maxes out at about 1000 watts at full bore. We’re about $3500 in with the while system, mini-split/solar system. It’s earned back about $150.00 in the first year and a half of use.
Really good video! Thanks for all the info. Your methods make so much sense and are better than others on UA-cam. You could have explained the wiring a little better but I got it 👍🙏
17:34 you can use some duct tape to hold back the insulation temporarily so it's out of your way while flaring. Don't forget to put the nut on the pipe before you flare ! :)
Really great video Will. You really were busy.😅 I liked the addition to the end of the video bonus clip. Great work.
Thank you!! It was a lot haha
Awesome, I was just looking into ordering the Della today and then you posted this video. So I'm going to order it as soon as I get home. Thanks for the video very helpful indeed. You should do a video on how to connect this unit to solar then I'd be eternally grateful . I'm installing this in an RV, hope it works out. Thanks again, your the best Will.
Be sure to use my affiliate link above 😁👍🏻
And with solar, just need to connect to an inverter in a solar system. That's all there is to it
@@WillProwse I'm new to solar power, how big of a system would you recommend for running this unit, I'm located in southern Texas so there is plenty of sun.
How come you show a pioneer when unboxing then change to a Della for the vacuum pump? Which did you install pioneer or Della?
@@johndeerefarmer4483 I had to install both. I wanted to redo the vacuum pump segment.
I installed my Pioneer Ultra and I love it, it is incredibly efficient and I will always have the tools to install/maintain these units.
I used a digital CPS guage and a valve core removal tool to get a really good vacuum.
Very nice!!
Nice presentation. Very informative!
All this talk about studs and drilling holes has got me excited...
For mini split heat pump installations