When DIY enthusiast @diy.hvac.guy shared a video of his newly installed mini-split heat pump, TikTok users were impressed by the results. The real insights, however, were revealed on his YouTube channel, where he documented the installation of the 18,000 BTU MrCool heat pump. In a detailed installation guide, @diy.hvac.guy demonstrated that with some expertise, a DIYer could successfully install a mini-split unit, albeit with a few considerations. While he didn't delve into whether the pricier MrCool DIY units are a sound financial investment, we decided to investigate. Our findings revealed that DIY mini-splits can be a cost-effective option, particularly for larger units.
Analysis of the 24 top-selling units at Lowe's reveals that MrCool's single-zone units are priced higher than competitors, ranging from 129 to 135% of the price of similar units. This price difference can amount to savings between $301.50 and $636.53, considering the cost of installing a mini-split air conditioner. However, with labor costs ranging from $300 to $1500 for single-zone systems, savings are not guaranteed. In comparison, two- and three-zone MrCool systems are $1,021.24 and $1,146.61 more expensive, making them a better option for DIY enthusiasts looking to save on installation labor costs.
Can you install a MrCool DIY mini-split?
By all accounts, including our own experiences with non-DIY mini-splits, MrCool does a great job making their kits as simple as possible to install. But is "as simple as possible" good enough for the average DIYer? In his YouTube video, @diyhvacguy is very thorough and clear about when his MrCool unit exceeded his expectations or missed the mark, and there weren't many of the latter. There was some minor confusion about the centerline of the cardboard mounting template, and @diyhvacguy had to install his own anti-short bushings for an electrical cable. He also seems to find it unfortunate that MrCool missed the opportunity to color-code wires in the condensing unit's terminal block.
Is MrCool's excellence enough?
On the other hand, MrCool did several things to make the process painless, like providing some of the tools necessary for the installation. But where the MrCool heat pump shines is in the lineset — a pair of coiled copper tubes that comes pre-charged with refrigerant because charging an air conditioning unit requires equipment and skills well outside of the average DIYer's reach. Perhaps the most nerve-wracking thing about the entire installation is bending the lineset, which, if kinked, might need to be professionally repaired. MrCool adds corrugated sleeves and a spiral elbow in the ½-inch line to make kinks unlikely, and the company's quick-connect system allows you to connect the lines with a couple of wrenches instead of the flaring equipment required for a typical professional installation.
There are certain scenarios that can present challenges for DIY enthusiasts, like the unconventional path of the lineset through the wall, maneuvering around electrical wiring. This highly skilled DIYer on social media wisely ensures that there are helpers on standby for crucial moments. While not the most complex task, it can still be intimidating enough for novices to opt for professional installation, despite the potentially small cost difference. However, those with DIY experience and armed with the instructional videos from @diyhvacguy should find the job manageable.
