Installing a ductless mini split A/C for an office or bedroom or even a garage is easier than it seems here is a guide and list of products for a DIY A/C install!

1ton ductless mini split kit
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TOOLS YOU WILL NEED

  • Drill with hole saw (usually 2.5”–3.5”)

  • Level

  • Stud finder

  • Tape measure

  • Screwdrivers

  • Adjustable wrenches

  • Line-set insulation tape

  • Wall sleeve (usually included)

  • Vacuum pump + gauge manifold (or hire a tech)

  • Flaring tool (if your unit doesn’t come pre-flared)

  • Electrical tools (wire stripper, connectors)

  • Outdoor pad or wall brackets

  • Line-set covers (optional but cleaner)

Choose the Right Location (Indoor Unit)

  • Mount high on the wall, away from direct sunlight.

  • Choose a spot with at least:

    • 6–8 inches of clearance above the unit

    • 6–12 inches on sides

  • Must allow a straight shot for the line-set to exit outside.

Install the Indoor Wall Bracket

  1. Use a level to place the mounting bracket.

  2. Secure it into studs or use proper anchors.

  3. Make sure it’s sturdy — the indoor head will hang on this.

Drill the Wall Penetration

  • Drill a 2.5″–3.5″ hole through the wall at a slight downward angle outward for drainage.

  • Insert the wall sleeve to protect tubing and cable.

Prepare Indoor Unit Connections

Feed the following through the wall sleeve:

  • Refrigerant lines (carefully bend by hand)

  • Condensate drain line (must slope downward)

  • Communication/power cable (depending on model)

Hang the indoor head on the bracket.

Mount the Outdoor Unit

  • Place on a concrete pad or wall bracket.

  • Keep at least:

    • 12–24 inches behind

    • 24 inches in front

  • Make sure it’s level and clear for airflow.

Run the Line Set

  • Connect the refrigerant lines from indoor to outdoor.

    • Do NOT kink the copper.

    • Use gentle, wide bends only.

  • Insulate both lines well.

  • Use line-set covers or wrap with tape for protection.

Tighten flare nuts with two wrenches (one to hold, one to turn).

Be careful not to over-tighten.

Wire the System

Most systems use:

  • 14/4 or 12/4 communication cable (indoor → outdoor)

  • Dedicated 240V circuit from breaker to outdoor unit

Wiring basics:

  • Connect terminals 1–1, 2–2, 3–3, ground–ground

  • Outdoor unit gets the main power

  • Indoor unit is powered by the outdoor

Always match the manual’s wiring diagram for your model.

Pull Vacuum on the Refrigerant Lines

If you’re not certified, hire an HVAC tech for this part.

A pro will:

  1. Connect gauges

  2. Connect vacuum pump

  3. Pull vacuum to 500 microns or lower

  4. Close valves and verify system holds vacuum (no leaks)

This step removes moisture and air from the lines.

Release Refrigerant

Once vacuum passes leak-down test, the tech will:

  • Open the service valves on the outdoor unit
    This releases the factory refrigerant charge into the line-set.

Test and Start the System

  • Restore power

  • Set system to cool mode

  • Check:

    • Indoor airflow

    • Condensate drainage

    • Outdoor fan/compressor running

    • Line temperatures (suction line cool, liquid line warm)