DIYers Install a Mini-Split: What LA Weekend Warriors Need to Know
Mini-split weekend warriors, listen up!
Live and Work in Your Garage? Own an ADU in Los Angeles?
Do you have a detached garage, guest house, or home office that needs heating and cooling—without expensive ductwork? Thinking of installing a ductless mini-split system yourself in Los Angeles?
If you have tools, self-confidence, and a healthy respect for electrical safety codes, then this post is for you.
A/C Control has helped hundreds of homeowners across Southern California achieve comfort with high-efficiency mini-split heat pumps—and while we always recommend professional installation, we know some of you are determined to go the DIY route.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This is not a substitute for a licensed contractor. If at any point you’re unsure, call A/C Control at (310) 909-4814 for expert guidance.
The DIY Mini-Split Installation Guide (Los Angeles Edition)
Weekend warriors, listen up! Who wants to pay a professional to install it the right way?? After all, they’ve only had years of training and certification. Of course you can handle it. Just follow this guide, ignore the naysayers, and you’ll be just as successful as every HVAC apprentice who’s never cracked a refrigerant line improperly… Kidding aside, let’s get serious.
1. Gather the Right Tools
- Flaring tool & flare gauge
- Copper pipe cutter & deburring tool
- Hole saw (drill or impact-compatible)
- Mini-split torque wrench
- Micron vacuum gauge
- Nitrogen tank with regulator
- Pressure gauges
- Wall mount support bracket
- Stud finder or magnet
2. Buy the Right Accessories
- Mini-split line set (copper)
- Wall sleeve for pipe penetration
- Condensate drain pipe
- Line set cover (PVC or UV-rated)
- Communication wire (14/4 stranded)
- Equipment pad
- Breaker, conduit, wire (proper gauge)
- Fused electrical disconnect box
🛑 Warning: Incorrect wire gauge = risk of fire or failure.
3. Respect the Electricity
Follow all NEC (National Electrical Code) guidelines. Miswiring could cause shocks, fires, or serious injury. Always double-check breaker sizing and local codes.
4. Indoor Unit Mounting
Find an interior wall opposite an exterior wall. Use the mounting template. Locate 2 studs (~16” apart). Secure the bracket into the studs.
🚫 Caution: Avoid damaging structural studs.
5. Drill the Line Set Hole
Drill a downward-sloped hole using the template. Insert a wall sleeve and feed through the refrigerant lines, drain pipe, and communication wires.
6. Flare the Pipes Correctly
Use a high-quality eccentric flaring tool. Deburr cleanly before flaring. Install flare nuts before torquing.
7. Mount & Connect the Indoor Unit
Attach the air handler to the bracket. Connect the flared pipe ends and torque according to specifications.
8. Wire It Up
Indoor: Connect terminals 1, 2, 3, and ground.
Outdoor: Install the breaker and run wires to the disconnect box, then to the outdoor unit.
9. Pressure & Vacuum Test
Pressure test with nitrogen. Pull vacuum with a micron gauge. Calculate line length and adjust refrigerant per manufacturer specs.
10. Power On & Test
- Open king valves
- Turn on breaker
- Test heating and cooling
- Confirm proper condensate drainage
11. If It Doesn’t Work…
Call the professionals at A/C Control: (310) 909-4814
12. The Easiest Way
Skip the hassle. Choose A/C Control and our 3-stage quality process. Get expert results without rework.
Need Help or a Custom DIY Kit?
Call (310) 909-4814 or click here to request a free proposal with a parts list and pro-grade instructions tailored to your space.
