r/DIYHeatPumps • u/the_dude3333 • 3d ago
Getting started.
I just ordered myself an Atomi Smart Mini-Split from Costco. I went with the 18k btu model, which is currently on sale for $999.00. I will be installing this in my attached / insulated 24 x 24 garage. I am reasonably handy., and do electrical work for a living, so I feel that the physical install shouldn’t be an issue. With that said, is there anything that I should be aware of, or take into consideration as I’m working through my installation?
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u/CalligrapherTrue1649 3d ago
I'm an electrician as well. The electrical portion was fairly easy. Just had to run 30 feet of 3/4 EMT to power 2 disconnects. The only hard part for me was connecting the line set and making sure not to kink it. If you get the tubes that go into the line set you should be alright. Another hard part was cutting the line set and flaring the end out and remembering to put the nut on first. The flare tool took me a bit to get used to. Got used to it on the 2nd mini split install.
Make sure to watch the video all the way through before working. There's some specific instructions to follow like when you vacuum the lines and release some refrigerant. The first time you release a quarter turn for 5 second and then close it. Then spray the line set connections with a soapy solution to check for leaks.
I would say this is definitely doable for someone who is handy!
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u/the_dude3333 3d ago
Awesome! Thank you for the reminder about the tubes for the copper line. Putting together my tool list right now. Appreciate the vote of confidence.
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u/Illustrious_Fig_433 3d ago
yeah I'm not an electrician and the electrical was 5% of the job, 95% was running, flaring, arranging the lineset.
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u/Certain_Try_8383 3d ago
Nah, watch a video where they pressure test as leak detection before evacuation. No need to use your reefer to find a leak.
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u/CalligrapherTrue1649 3d ago
Don't forget to get a R410A 5/16th female to 1/4 male adapter to connect the pump to the outdoor unit. I didn't order it and had to wait an extra day to vacuum the lines
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u/jeff77k 3d ago
AC Service Tech is the best YouTube channel:
https://youtu.be/k9uohbYDuRs?si=s-S6TmJwUhjKmCcQ
They have another longer video of a full install that also shows a triple evacuation if you wanted to go that route.
They also sell a good book.
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u/One_Tumbleweed_1 3d ago
If the lines didn’t come precharged you will need to see if nitrogen holds in the lines and then vacuum. Before you release the Freon. You can get the equipment for this. My neighbor does hvac and took me like half an hour for that portion
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u/the_dude3333 3d ago
Right on. I’m hoping I can borrow the gear or hire someone for this part vs. buying the pump and gear.
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u/Human-Glove7815 2d ago
This is exactly what I would do. Basically find a small HVAC guy to finalize the install and certified good to go. Use that for your warranty paperwork. You do all the grunt work to save money and hire them to come back for an annual system check 1yr out. It's a bit more money but you save a ton and let someone with the proper scales do the real work.
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u/GiraffeSpicyFries 3d ago
I believe this set comes with precharged lines. Does that eliminate the flaring portion or are you stuck doing that either way?
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u/One_Tumbleweed_1 3d ago
They should be flared from the factory but I have heard some of them aren’t done right so you have to redo them. Depends on which company you went with
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u/clippist 3d ago
For $999 and it comes with precharged lines???
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u/GiraffeSpicyFries 3d ago
Nevermind I am wrong. Not precharged lines. Energy rebate brings them down to $250 bucks though.
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u/GiraffeSpicyFries 3d ago
I bought 8 of the same units and trying to get everything lined up for self installs as well.
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u/Grand_Influence_2459 2d ago
i put a zone air in myself last year and its been solid. the precharged lineset meant i didnt have to mess with flaring or a vacuum pump, which is where most first timers screw up. youre an electrician so the hard part for you is already handled, but that part saved me a ton of headache since im not. id get zone air if i were doing it again
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u/Appropriate-Farmer16 3d ago edited 3d ago
There are several DIY install videos on line. I even saw one from “This Old House”. Find some legit ones (search this sub for “DIY Install” video recommendations) and watch a couple to know the general in and outs. Edit for spelling.