The Mini Split Design No One Knows About | COMPLETE Install Tips and Tricks

[@StudPack]

After we made this video, one small correction. I believe the outdoor unit is charged with refrigerant from the factory. The lineset and indoor unit are sealed with a vacuum. Opening the refrigerant valves on the outdoor unit "charges" the rest of the system.

[@Gbfaninnm]

I wondered why you were leak testing before opening the valves. 😊

[@robertgregory2618]

The line sets connect the condenser outside to the indoor air handler. The MRCOOL DIY Quick Connect Line Set is pre-loaded with an R410A refrigerant. It uses Quick Connect Fittings that are specifically designed for installing both Mr. Cool DIY Single and Multi-Zone Split Systems. Since these are No-Vac linesets, they easily plug into the outdoor condenser and Wall Air Handler inside. No cutting, brazing, vacuuming, or charging required.

[@Lierofox]

Crazy thing is when I was shopping for my MrCool unit a few years back I was looking between the DIY version and the Advantage version. The difference in price for the DIY version was about 4x what I spent on a vacuum pump and all the fittings to just install the Advantage version! 😄 Great purchase though, all in spent about $1100 for the 18,000BTU unit and electrical components and vac pump, and installed it over a weekend back in 2020. Been running daily for the last 5 years with zero issue.

[@sgwsteve1665]

Love ya stud pack!

[@anonymous..-]

Not true. It’s refrigerant. If it were a vacuum, there would be a risk of system contamination during connection. It's explained on their website.

[@DanLB1996]

Checked 20 minutes ago to see how many days since last upload, so glad a new video is out I was getting withdrawals 😂

[@tii2015]

Love it! Me too.

[@Vash.Baldeus]

You're not the only one! I've been waiting for a video too!

[@alchemistsavant8573]

Yes but what the heck is happening on the SPDH???

[@MsGail61]

I saw pics on IG of Paul and Jordan about to have surgery but we don’t know why.

[@SeanLeonDrumz]

@@alchemistsavant8573 Im assuming we are going to get some updates on that build once they are done at Rads

[@matthewbauer89]

Another quick project, insulate the garage door. That has made a world of difference in my eastern NC south facing garage door

[@MCThomasDrums]

Yeah I just moved into a place that has the garage door insulated. It's kind of crazy how much of a difference it makes.

[@ncooty]

100%

[@allaboutroofing2]

Insulating the attic would be cheaper and more effective. If you have a fully insulted garage with insulalted attic, a insulated door would be a nice finish, but a nice insulationed double door is $3500 now.

[@billy9075]

⁠@@allaboutroofing2they said insulate the doors, not replace them with insulated ones. Insulation board isn’t $3500. They own a jig saw

[@allaboutroofing2]

@billy9075 yeah that doesn't really work tho. The places you can't put insulation like the lateral hinge points are still uninsulated. The only way to make an real difference is with a thermacore or similar door that is a couple inch thick aluminum with a foam core.

[@ron.v]

Ok, guys. Here's why I love the ads you include as part of your video. @15:56 You mentioned a Klein cutter. @16:01 You said, "Most people associate Klein with electrical tools. That's right. I'm one of 'em. Some of my favorite hand tools and testers are Kleins. I didn't know Klein made plumbing tools. I need a cutter like that, too but didn't want a piece of junk. Thanks for letting us know about this.

[@rshinn8776]

I binged on Craig's videos and was able to install 6 mini splits so far. I didn't want the extra line coils, so I cut, flared and vacuumed out my linesets. It's crazy how much money you can save doing it yourself for just a few days work.

[@philmarquardt9253]

What a pleasant surprise to get a new video! Saw your Instagram about medical stuff and wasn’t expecting a video for a bit! Hope Paul and Jordan are recovering well and are not having any serious problems! Prayers for you both!

[@terencemerritt]

Who’s Jake?

[@philmarquardt9253]

@@terencemerritt sorry, spell check burnt me.

[@StudPack]

Thanks! Jordan and I both had sinus surgery. Almost 100%

[@tii2015]

I wish I had one of those in my garage right now. It's 1 degree in Piqua Ohio. That's how much I love your channel. Freezing my ass off, drinking a beer & anxiously anticipating SPRING. Oh, & the next Stud Pack video! Love you guys. We know you're getting some of the cold also. Be safe & stay warm! TII

[@danielmarkin7126]

Small world! I live in Sidney Ohio 😂

[@stephenhegarty]

If the kids are going to be using the garage to store vehicles in the future you might want to think about sealing up that breezeway attic access to prevent vehicle fumes from entering the main house. Up here in the Great White North this a real concern when people leave vehicles idling in garages during colder temps

[@Subgunman]

Back in Ohio years ago I installed a pass through with a small cover on the garage door and used an exhaust pipe flexible extension that would slide over the cars pipe and the opposite end would be inserted into the small pass through. This would allow 99% of exhaust gasses to pass to the great outdoors.

[@daveloderhose874]

So much nicer looking than the wall mounted units. Nice job.

[@Moccy.]

I installed a mini-split in my garage a few years ago - one of the best things you can do to a garage, especially if (like me) you have your workshop out there. Heat in the winter (within limits, Canada can get pretty cold and these things struggle to pull heat from outside when it's -20C or lower), and cooling (specifically, dehumidifying) in the summer means I can spend lots of time out there without either freezing my wobbles off, or dripping with sweat after 10 minutes.

[@tyrehester5550]

Great job. I need a unit like this in my master bath. On my third 1500 watt space heater in 7 years.

[@phredrolltek]

I've installed a small minisplit and a 3 ton central system both from mr cool. Had a few friends help with the central system, it's heavy and it had a 35 foot line set. saved a pile of money. so far so good. We have had temps in the teens for the last week or so here, the central system is running on stage one perfectly happy.

[@knocturna9731]

It’s so crazy that as soon after I find out about a home product, this channel uploads a video using it. 😂

[@gretchen_needs_a_dog]

Well timed as my furnace but the dust today (after 27 years of valiant service), so I appreciated your desire for warmth. We got up to 20F here today. Stay warm down there! ❤

[@HalfAssHomestead]

That was the best Mr. Cool install I've seen. Many draw a vacuum on the line set, then refill it. I've always thought that was a wasted step. Now I'm much more confident on setting up my own. I actually have a need to install one with 4 inner head units, off one main, so this makes that process a whole lot cheaper and easier. Thank you as always.

[@rhepungus3657]

These units have come a long way. I think i need to get one soon. Thanks for the vid.

[@Subgunman]

True! Here in Europe they are now interconnected with the internet or can be interfaced with home automation systems. There is one major issue, cost of electricity.

[@Greg-oo1zm]

Couple pro tips for the Polaris, 1. As u are tightening down the set screw wiggle the wire and tighten. 2. those caps love to come off, tape them down.

[@htownblue11]

Great video and made this project seem very attainable for the diy guys. That Klein cutter is legit!

[@jnkleadbetter]

So glad you guys did a video on this unit. I need to replace the 20+ yr old heat pump in my 500sq ft MIL suite. But I don’t want to pay an HVAC company $5000 for what we need. I also didn’t really want to do a wall mounted mini split. I’ve seen these ceiling mount units on Facebook and thought this would be a great alternative. Great works gentlemen! Keep it up.

[@dthomas4566]

I had to install several twin- splints into Corporate Food Trucks during COVID Summer and it's NOT for the faint of heart, and in Houston humidity, you are making it look easy my friend, keep up the Great Work 👍😎

[@chadharrigan68]

Heat in the winter & parking cars in the garage works especially if you're using gas for heat. Cooling in the summer & parking cars in the garage doesn't(electrical) . Just FYI. Just be prepared to spend a lot more $ in the summer to keep the garage comfortable. Most of us use the garage to park cars, engress & egress daily. We rarely use the front door to the house. In the summer, you will put a ton(lol) of work on the minisplit to get the garage back to temp. When you insulate to keep the temp in, it definitely keeps it in. Just FYI. Wish you the best....Great channel guys!

[@TJsVette]

Crazy to think that where I am in Pensacola, FL we got actual Snow today! I could definitely have used one of these in my garage today!!!

[@jonefive64]

It doesn't matter all that much, but the lineset should really be laid flat - horizontally when you strap it down to avoid oil pooling in the loops.

[@tphvac87]

They’re called cassettes they’ve been around awhile. Nice job!

[@johnds6621]

I'm jealous I wanted to put one of those in my bedroom for a long time but I have to many issues that prevent me from doing it. The garage is a great application for a Mr Cool. Great video.

[@nylonstringninja]

I love those connectors. I used them when running a very long mobile home supply cable from a transformer pole to an RV panel in the mountains. The RV panel will not accept that large of feeder cable but you can easily change down to copper wirh these connectors without a problem, and you know they are very well mechanically connected. They are expensive but worth it.

[@DavidSandersT]

This was so well-timed. I'm wanting to install a mini-split in my garage!

[@anonymous..-]

Best thing I ever did was to fully insulate and add a mini split to my garage. My west facing garage was only usable a few months a year in Texas....now it can be used year round. Stored items don't break down from the heat and cold, I can comfortably work on cars when it's 20F or 100F, cars interior are always at a comfortable temperature year-round.

[@bnasty267]

Quick correction: the lineset doesn't have all the refrigerant (R-410A, I think MrCool still uses), the bulk is in the outdoor unit. The lineset just has enough to make up for its length and to keep atmosphere out. Non-quick-connect lineset units usually pressurize the indoor unit with nitrogen gas for a similar reason. That, and to give you a warning if it has a leak before the install. I got my EPA cert to do my mini splits with a vac, core puller, nitrogen tank, etc, but I admit the MrCool units are compelling. Cutting out all the refigerant work, even if you've done it before, saves a lot of time. I'd have to get a lineset/positioning that minimized the snake coil, however, that's the biggest downside.

[@Artificial.Unintelligence]

Thank you for keeping silly on the fly adjustments needed like not being able to find that external stud and making adjustments to the bracket itself. Yes it's simple but it's good to see pros have to deal with stuff like that.. makes it feel less frustrating as a DIYer

[@jasonbelles6821]

Paul and boys, I love your channel, you have helped me so much. Thank you!

[@Sammywhat]

This is exceedingly helpful in these colder climes!!

[@Salmomlox]

Nailed it. Great tips and tricks on the install. Looks great. Love the Klein addition.

[@dgeoffreyfitton2836]

As usual, Paul you and Rad made another very helpful & understandable video

[@aquilafasciata5781]

Y’all got the JRE sponsorship 😂 Love the work fellas, you’re helping me with my first house immensely. Keep it up!

[@leslietinyhousebuilderwann3851]

I can’t wait to get one installed in my future home.

[@frrapp2366]

i have one for our work shop but havent gotten the inside wall finished to put it in yet !!! hope it helps out

[@bobhestikind9210]

I have a Mini split in my garage. One of best things I've done to my house!

[@pmur079]

Texas snow? Got that unit installed just in time. Glad to see another video. Be well.

[@arsenicjones9125]

Rad and Summers house is gonna be as nice as Jordans at this rate lol. Hope everyone’s warm during this cold snap. Can’t wait for the next …. Stud pack video.

[@azpcox]

Next up - garage door insulation! Great project to keep the chill off of the garage!

[@scottz45]

I install a two head Mr Cool in VT 4 years ago. It is amazing and so cheap to run!

[@BuddyTobyTV]

Paul the torque specification you are looking for is the German one: “Guten Tight”. I have yet to buy a torque wrench and have yet to have an issue with using the German specification.

[@nocilor]

I always wanted to install one like this!! This video helps so much!

[@danieltholejr722]

Hey Paul - you should let the gang know where you get your elbow torque gauge set! ;) After a few years doing things, you just.... know! Another really cool video!!

[@ivancook1247]

Definitely recommend a icm 493 surge and voltage monitor and lay your extra lineset horizontal, vertical alot of oil traps , be interested to know how long it works before a leak ,

[@mikewatson4644]

Both recommendations are spot on. I really prefer to not have all that extra line. Better to cut the line to correct length and then vacuum out.

[@codyplant4788]

You cannot cut the pre-charged line sets. Notice how Paul said you don’t have to vacuum this lineset? These are a DIY type of system. I have a large Mr Cool Umiversal heat pump that I purchased without the pre-vacuumed lines. I ran traditional copper lines and then nitrogen brazed, pressure tested, and vacuumed down to below 500 microns. Stud pack didn’t have to do any of that.

[@mikewatson4644]

@ I didn't use the lines that came with the unit. However, if you wanted to use the lines that came with the unit leave the ends intact, cut the lines (preferably close to the end going to the outside unit) and install a connector that will allow you to vacuum the line and fill with the correct freon.

[@Mrsockmonkie]

I just spent $55 on 15' of 3/14 wire for a new bathroom exhaust fan. I'll have to keep the supply houses in mind. Next project: new siding!

[@resellerrunner5149]

When you are done with Rad & Jordan's house, you can come and help me with mine! (wishful thinking!) I'm retired and I get to do all kind of "projects" on our home. Thanks again for teaching this old dog, new tricks Paul!

[@RobertLafata]

I like the idea of installing the line set in the attic. Seen it done other ways. But the refrigerant is stored in the condensing unit. The line set is under a vacuum

[@catsmeow5566]

The MrCool unit is pretty neat. I have central AC and it doesn't heat/cool rooms evenly. It was over $10k to replace just the indoor air handler after 10+ years. Had a coil leak and the model was discontinued so they couldn't get parts for it. They weren't allowed to mess with any ducting because I have asbestos insulation in the attic. I had mini splits in an apartment in Singapore back in the 90s. The units didn't drain properly though so they would start to drip on the floor. They were great for maintaining temperature though. It never got below 70 outside so there was no heating but cooling was necessary. I kept my room around 60°F. Any reason why you didn't go with wago lever nuts for the connection in the junction box? They do make them to handle 10awg. I am interested in seeing how you covered that hole where the cables came out of the side of the house.

[@TheTwistedarm]

I have a 2 ton Mitsubishi in my shop and it works great. But it uses a lot of electricity when it gets down in the teens or lower.

[@jgeisler]

Glad you did a video on this. I'm looking at replacing my central AC and oil burner furnace with mini splits (one for each level). I want to install ceiling cassettes because I'm not a fan of the wall mounted units. My problem is the house was built 125 years ago and the ceiling joists are only 7" tall. I haven't found any that would fit. I'm considering mounting them so they extend down below the ceiling and trimming around them. The ceiling height is about 8'6".

[@sunshine3914]

I do not recommend mini splits in humid environments, like the southern coast where they built. We installed 5 different top name brands & they are the most high maintenance of any ac I’ve ever owned. I’d take a wall or window mount over any mini split, any day.

[@jgeisler]

@@sunshine3914, I live in PA so it usually doesn't get extremely hot and humid for any real period of time nor extremely cold unlike what we are experiencing right now.

[@matthewbauer89]

I love the cassette mini splits. Thinking about a multi zone for garage and 4 season room addition to the house

[@GregOnSite]

Taking this as a sign to buy one for MY garage! Update on how it preformed during the COLD?

[@raybieze]

I’m planning to put ceiling heads in my house soon. I can’t wait.

[@BushyTop08]

How do you clean the condensate line in mini splits like that? Do you have to get into the attic?

[@davidfeldman7001]

Why doesn’t the drain follow the line set? this is the way I’ve always seen it. Love the vids. keep them coming.

[@HOGSBREATH1978]

Nice work. I’ve never seen a flush mount indoor unit like that.

[@jranney1]

Glad to see you back!

[@MikeStavola]

I had to switch from propane to a heat pump for my first floor this winter. That includes the garage bay and the workshop. It's been *so* nice.

[@toneystevens5023]

Heat pumps are great until the power goes out. A small generator will run a propane furnace but a heat pump takes a larger one.

[@JarrodBMET]

How did yall fair the snow?

[@jermainedorsey9641]

You guys are awesome! Keep up the fantastic work❤

[@kennethmiller2333]

Are those valves meant to remain on their backseat, or should you back them off 1/4 turn? Never seen one of these that installed in the ceiling. I think it's a cleaner look. Love it.

[@NickWickedone]

I do like to say that Paul and his son are thorough but missed a tip here, they're very good for tips and that's why I watch this channel, so that being said I want to remind everyone to not forget that lock ring before you wire up your unit

[@r7boatguy]

What's the noise level like from the exterior unit?

[@quinnembree7005]

The loops in your lineset need to be horizontal. Vertical loops cause oil traps that will eventually starve your compressor of oil and shorten the life.

[@elemenop718]

For the opening where the lines comes out, you could use one of those hooded vents you would use for the dryer vent. Looks much cleaner. And, shouldn't be an issue with the garage, but do not wall mount these on brackets outside of a bedroom wall. The vibration and noise from it, is felt inside. Better to have it on brackets on the ground away from the wall.

[@sundogaudio851]

very nice and informative. So how can the lineset hold the refrigerant under pressure and not have it leak out when you fasten it?

[@anonymous..-]

Ancient Chinese secret.

[@sundogaudio851]

@@anonymous..- apparently

[@remodz6385]

@@sundogaudio851the line set ends have a set screw on the back that releases the pressure once the fittings are fitted.that’s why he had to back off those two Allen heads at the end.

[@sundogaudio851]

@@remodz6385 like king valves?

[@texoilfieldtrash]

i installed a mini split also during the summer and was very similar to yours, i did buy a cheapo harbor freight vacuum pump but i could never achieve a good vacuum for whatever reason, i do wish i would have used a torque wrench and leak tested after releasing the refridgerant based on my vacuum difficulties. i will say the mr cool lineset connectors looked way different than my standard flare fittings that came with my senville. it looks great guys and i continue to enjoy the content.

[@kbh95207]

Many if not most three over one style apartment complexes utilize these square ceiling mini splits for the hallways.

[@mikecampanella1990]

Please make sure to air seal and insulate the attic well! Put in enough insulation to be above current code in texas and to be able to carry you through power outages. I live in CT and we have r49-r60 attic insulation standards. Id recommend doing that considering you guys get some winter weather. It will do nothing but help and cost a fraction more to do. It will also allow the mini split to work less and pro longing it's life, while lowering your bills. You might want to make sure the walls are insulated as well. Getting them dense packed with cellulose or fiberglass is inexpensive and just leaves some holes to patch up.

[@1packatak]

The insulation is also important to keep the house from getting too warm in summer. That saves on the electricity needed to run the house AC units. Insulation anywhere is a good thing.

[@1959mikel]

Great video, I’m hesitant to get one of these DIY units because I was told it’ll be hard to service them by a professional if they need to be. Not sure how true that is.

[@RisteMakedonski]

Great video as always. I had heard that the cassette mini-splits could be tough to maintain in the long-run. Anybody have any insight on this?

[@leestebbins5051]

Before I retired we had hundreds if not thousands ductless splits installed where I worked, no maintenance difficulties, just clean the air filter. Two major brands were Mitsubishi and Daikin.

[@dallynsr]

True. And there is no standard for the cassette dimensions or hi-wall boxes either, as time progresses and models get discontinued, warranties may be still in tact, but the equipment has to be replaced with a newer unit…that won’t necessarily fit in the same hole in the ceiling. Hi-Wall air handlers (“Wall mount”) don’t suffer as much with that, and are much easier to pull down for servicing/cleaning. Blowers get clogged up, whiny, and coils need periodic cleanings too.

[@Overpar73]

I really love my 6ea 18k, Mr Cool head units with 2ea large blower units for my large shop!

[@pcatful]

Now put some insulation on that ceiling! Nice video!

[@dadoslo3199]

at the 22:27 you snoged the walve nut to the unit open to full. I would almost always turn it about 1/2 to 1 turn's back to close so if someone was confused on wich way to turn the valve / or if it was rusted or damaged they/you can turn the nut / handle of the valve of the valve. Just my opinion.

[@Nytalite]

I get that there was no room, but I would have retained the electric range wiring in case Rad and Summer wanted an induction range in the future. Otherwise, this is a great video as always! I might install at least one of these mini-splits in my house.

[@cineaste1969]

Another great video. I was just thinking to myself, when is the next Studpack video? Turned on my IOPad and there you were. Keep warm guys.😊

[@dielawn212]

I have a fujitsu ceiling cassette in each room. Worth every penny. Sleek design and very quiet.

[@ArmchairGuru]

Lay the lineset flat in the attic, if its vertical you could risk trapping compressor oil in the bottom of the loop. Nice install

[@paulsylvester1394]

If only they would make a unit for RVs!

[@ArmchairInvestigator411]

Awesome video! I watch so intently, like I’m memorizing each step. HaHa‼️ Here in Mn. it was just 70° COLDER than it was there. Yep -35° So-ooo, if you want more practice, Lmk! Guessing those are a couple hundred bucks! 😂 🤣

[@-gina1114]

Great tutorial!!! Thank you so much!!!

[@Rygarz21]

Polaris lugs are great. I use them all the time on electrical service changes. 19:19

[@SihAza]

You pay a premium (~$500+) for the Mr. Cool evacuated lineset and special fittings. A vacuum pump is only ~$70 (Amazon) and if you can flare copper tubing, use a regular lineset and cut and flare to length. All the mini-split heat pumps come with refrigerant loaded in the compressor unit. After verifying the lineset holds a vacuum, you just open the valves to release the refrigerant, just like w/ Mr Cool.

[@jeffhagen4202]

One thing I think you guys missed on the garage build mini splits was a remote thermostat which allows you to put the unit into fan off when setpoint reached mode. If you leave it in the default setup (fan runs even when setpoint is reached), it won't dehumidify well. From memory, you had the Mitsu units, which have a jumper wire that you can cut.

[@Subgunman]

I have seen this style of heat pump installed in commercial properties in Greece ever since I moved here almost 20 years ago. The only difference is that the indoor unit is a square unit about a meter square and about 12 inches deep. Condensate is removed with a small pump since they are mounted far from the walls. It’s about time someone designed the indoor unit to fit between our 16 inch on center stud work. The euro versions have four outputs along the sides of the unit and I was told you could "permanently" close anyone of those vanes where you might need to cut airflow to. As for a trap on the water drain, that is a very big NO! It will cause a plug in the line and the water will back up into the indoor unit. Flood warning! I will recommend that you place a screen small enough to keep out mud dauber wasps and spiders. They will nest up high into the drain line blocking it. Before starting the AC mode every year, one needs to confirm that nothing has blocked the drain line. I slide a fiberglass fish line up into the unit and then pull it out and apply a vacuum to it with the shop vac. This line will also plug up if you don’t keep your filters clean. Condensate with dust can build up in the line plugging it as well. Always run drain lines down to within 12 to 24 inches of the ground to allow for easy clean out. Condensate can then be left to run out into the flower beds or grass.

[@stevee3954]

I’m buying one soon for a 25 by 25 addition. Will the 18,000 handle it? And are the drain line and electrical lines on the right if you are looking at the front of the unit? love your channel. Very informative.

[@nieldcreek2098]

I love I a cold northern state. How low of an outdoor temperature can the heat pump operate efficiently? What’s it low outdoor temp rating?

[@brettj3268]

I live in idaho, they are good down about to 10* f, after that they struggle little and need help from my electric heaters. But it's maybe a total of a week or two of those temps, so no big deal. Extremely efficient and cheap for ac though!

[@mr702s]

"Built in torq recorders in my hands" 🤣🤣🤣 the confidence

[@kipplitz]

I might be responding too early, Not at the end of the video yet. But, that excess line set you have in the attic you do not want to lay it up vertical loop you want to lay it down as a horizontal loop.

[@gpadog]

Also, the #8 wire and # 10 wire in the same circuit/ junction box is a code violation i believe

[@jaybubb5500]

Great video. I would love to see a review on that in a while. I have been told that the ceiling cassettes are trouble by a couple HVAC guys. I'm still planning on putting them in. would love to see if you still like them down the road.

[@Sebanisu]

I guess the trap is needed if the unit has negative pressure, but not needed if the unit has positive pressure. Meaning does the unit suck the water and air up the tube or does it push it out.

[@Josb_Bluebird2143]

Next project idea, replace garage door with an insulated one. Also might insulate attic some.

[@mightandbelightnr2290]

What is a trap on an ac unit?

[@mrbill3]

Do you not need a service outlet for the exterior part of the unit in Texas? ((NEC) section 210.63)

[@JSH1]

Does Rad keep moving the surfboard around to make it in the outdoor videos or does he have so many that they just appear in every outdoor video?

[@absentstars474]

They make styrofoam inserts for insulating your garage door that work really well. Its zero degrees in maryland right now and my garage is the warmest room in my house.

[@hanko5750]

Note to self: What out for Home Depot ripping me off big time !! Thanks Paul. That hidden set up is very cool!! Pun intended ;)

[@RedBeard395]

Can you do an unsponsored video of some of the top tools you recommend owning? Specifically that klein laser. I need a new one and that one looks useful.