DIY Mini Splits: The Ultimate Guide

You may have heard your neighbor or co-worker raving about their new DIY mini split they installed over the weekend. Well, you are not alone, they have been gaining massive popularity since the 2020s and don’t seem to be letting up anytime soon. That’s why we made this guide to tell you everything you need to know about DIY mini splits in 2024. Let’s dive right into the basics. 

What is a DIY Mini Split? 

A DIY (Do it yourself) mini split is an AC system that most people can install in a day or weekend depending on which system you get. These systems provide the technology that a mini split ac system brings (no ductwork) without having to be installed by a professional. This can end up saving a good chunk of money. 

How much do DIY mini splits cost?

This depends on the size of space you need cooled or heated, but if you have a single small room or space, they cost $500-$1,500 depending on the brand. For a large single room or warehouse, they can cost $1,500 - $3,000+. You can view single zone DIY mini splits that are for sale here. 

They also have multi-zone mini splits. These are used for multiple rooms. They make 2, 3, 4, and 5 zone diy systems. The price of these units range from $2,000 all the way up to $10,000. View multi-zone mini splits here.  

What’s the difference between a DIY mini split and a regular mini split?

The big difference is DIY (do-it-yourself) mini splits come with pre-charged line sets. If you don’t have pre-charged line sets, you will need a professional to vacuum out the lines and charge the system with refrigerant. Vacuuming out the lines is a crucial step in installing a mini split air conditioning system that is not DIY. It ensures the system operates efficiently, prevents damage, and adheres to manufacturer requirements. 

What are all companies or brands that make a DIY mini split?

1. MRCOOL

• Series: MrCool DIY Series
• Features: Specialize in DIY mini spits. Pre-charged linesets, easy installation, Wi-Fi capability, energy efficiency, heat pump functionality, good warranties

2. Pioneer

• Series: Pioneer WYS Series
• Features: Pre-charged linesets, multi-zone options, high SEER ratings, Wi-Fi control available.

3. Senville

• Series: Senville LETO Series and Senville AURA Series
• Features: Pre-charged linesets, energy efficiency, low ambient heating, and cooling capabilities.

4. Klimaire

• Series: Klimaire DIY Series
• Features: Pre-charged quick-connect installation kits, Wi-Fi control, energy-efficient models, heat pump.

5. Perfect Aire

• Series: Perfect Aire DIY Series
• Features: Pre-charged linesets, easy-to-follow installation instructions, energy efficiency, quiet operation.

6. Mirage

• Series: Mirage DIY Series
• Features: Pre-charged linesets, energy-efficient models, user-friendly installation, reliable performance.

How long does a DIY mini split take to install?

This depends on the skill and experience of the installers. For someone that is pretty handy, and has some help, It can be done in around 4 hours. For someone without much help or experience, it will probably take a few days or 48 hours to figure everything out. There is no time limit though, work at your own pace. 

What are the best video tutorials for installing a DIY mini split?

We got the top 3 tutorials on installing a DIY mini split from YouTube that will help you on your DIY mini split journey. These 3 videos had a high Likes to Views ratio and also had over 100,000 views. 

1. MRCOOL DIY 4th Gen 12000 BTU Mini Split Full Install
2. How to Install a MRCOOL DIY System
3. Complete DIY Mini Split Installation | New Mr Cool 4th Gen Unit

Where can you buy DIY mini splits?

You can buy DIY mini splits from a variety of places including your local Home Depot or Lowes. You can also buy them online from a variety of sources including our store, which you can find here. If you are looking for 2nd hand DIY systems then check out Facebook Marketplace and OfferUp. 

How long do mini splits last?

You'll be glad to know they can last quite a long time. On average, you can expect a mini split system to last about 15 to 20 years. Of course, this depends on a few factors like how well you maintain it, the quality of the installation, and the brand you choose. Also be sure to check the warranty information before purchasing.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, DIY mini split systems offer an efficient, cost-effective solution for heating and cooling your home. With brands like MrCool, Pioneer, Senville, Klimaire, Perfect Aire, and Mirage providing user-friendly installation kits, you can enjoy the benefits of a comfortable home without the need for professional installation.

By following the installation instructions carefully and performing regular maintenance, your mini split system can provide reliable performance for 15 to 20 years. Embrace the convenience and efficiency of a DIY mini split and enjoy a comfortable living environment year-round! We hope we answered all of your questions about DIY mini splits. Cheers!