Hey there! I'm a first-time homeowner and I'm venturing into my first DIY project. My house is around 200 years old and I'm looking to install a hyper-heat mini-split system, likely from brands like Mr. Cool or Senville. I want to save some cash by purchasing the unit myself, but I'm worried about tackling the full installation solo, particularly the electrical components. I'm wondering: Is it a sensible plan to do most of the installation on my own and then hire a licensed electrician or HVAC technician just for the final connections? Do professionals often refuse this sort of piecemeal work, or is that a common practice? Any tips on challenges I might face with such an old house would be really appreciated! Thanks in advance!
10 Answers
I just finished a similar project! Just be honest with your DIY skills. While HVAC work isn't rocket science, it does require knowledge in several trades. If you’re hiring out electrical and HVAC at the end, you might not save much at all. I tackled the removal of the old system, installed everything else, and just got a pro to charge it. It cost about $5000 but it was way less than the $25000 I was quoted otherwise.
To be honest, most HVAC installers are likely to charge you just as much as if they did everything themselves. My advice is to hire an electrician to handle the wiring before you start with the other work—these folks know what they’re doing! And trust me, the rest of the installation is pretty straightforward. There are tons of helpful YouTube videos out there. I've installed three systems myself, and it’s not too tough. Here’s one that explains it well: [mini split install](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5trJX6Ef1iI&t=858s&ab_channel=DIYSolarPowerwithWillProwse)!
If you’re thinking of going the DIY route, purchase a quality unit and let a pro install it. I get the DIY urge, but you really want a system that’s dependable and will last. If you feel up to it, go for it, but be careful!
As an HVAC professional, I’d recommend you pass on the DIY aspect. I’d prefer not to deal with a setup like this later on.
I’d suggest doing all the demo work yourself first and then getting professionals for the rest. I doubt any tradespeople would refuse if everything is prepped for them.
I’ve done a similar setup with a Senville; I hired an electrician since I can't handle electrical work myself. I also got help from a handyman who was HVAC certified. I managed to build a stand for the unit and helped carry it, which was cool! Your insurance might need you to hire a pro for electrical work, and remember, Senville’s warranty is only legit if a licensed pro installs it. Your mileage may vary!
As a nurse who loves DIY, I installed two heat pumps recently. I watched loads of YouTube videos and took my time. My total cost was under $3500, and they’ve been running smoothly for three years now. Totally worth it!
Before going ahead, consider if it's really cost-effective. Older homes often have terrible insulation, meaning you'd likely end up heating the outdoors more than your home! Simple insulation fixes, like sealing windows, could really boost efficiency. It might be good to do some research on everything that needs attention in your house before diving in.
Honestly, from what I've seen, most HVAC pros would either refuse this type of work or charge you a high rate for it. Plus, many of them aren’t fans of Mr. Cool as a brand. Just a heads-up!
I found installing a couple of Mr. Cool units surprisingly easy! I had the right tools, like a vacuum pump and gauges, ready. Just make sure you understand running a 220v line. If you feel confident, you can totally DIY it!