Installing a Senville Mini Split | Dream Shop Ep8: HVAC Install

Рет қаралды 91,874

3 жыл бұрын

I installed two 18,000 BTU mini split units in my 35' x 35' barn shop and they're running great! While the unit I ordered did include everything needed for installation (obviously excluding tools and optional covers/stands), I would not count these units as DIY friendly. The two main reasons being the instructions are horrible and require a lot of knowledge and understanding before coming into the install - and if you do make a mistake, it's almost guaranteed to be an expensive one that'll cost more than hiring it out in the first place. The wiring instructions are basically "wire in accordance with national and local code." The manual included directions for 4 different wall plates, but not the one in my kit. The directions for pressure testing and releasing refrigerant is missing steps. Also, bending copper line sets without kinking them is pretty tricky, and this install also requires being able to use a torque wrench (not difficult, but has some nuance) and some understanding of pressure systems, manifold gauges, and pumps. I'm not saying you can't do it yourself, especially if you're a hardened weekend warrior with a good variety of experience and familiarity with the systems involved. But if all those things are new to you and you're just trying to save money over hiring an installer, I'd recommend just saving a bit more and hiring it out.
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Пікірлер: 193

@user-bj4lp3fr1o 2 жыл бұрын

Some are saying you should have gotten a pro to do the installation. In my area the pros wouldn't do my installation unless they sold me the unit. I installed 2 units myself using Senville's installation instructions and after 3 years they are still running OK.

@YouCanMakeThisToo 2 жыл бұрын

I’ve heard that a lot. Also in my area I’ve learn that most of the pro’s… aren’t. They’re just full timers.

@RehdClouhd 2 жыл бұрын

What size (BTU) were your units? Did you evacuate the lines? I have a 12k senville 120V and am hoping not to have to evacuate the lines. Thanks

@user-bj4lp3fr1o 2 жыл бұрын

@@RehdClouhd I installed a 9,000 and a 12,000 btu unit. The Senville lines were not charged, so they had to be vacuumed. The installation instructions tell you how to do it. I bought a vacuum pump on Amazon for about $60 and a single gauge manifold for about $30 from one of the mini suppliers and then sold them for about 75% of what they cost. The MrCool (or MrKool) mini splits come with pre-charged lines and don't have to be vacuumed.

@randybobandy9828 Жыл бұрын

You are 100 % correct. I had a business that came to clean a mini split at my business, and I asked him if they would install a new unit for me. The tech told me yes and just got ahold of them. A few months later I asked them to install it and they didn't realize I was talking about a unit I bought, I was pissed since I needed it done asap and so I gave them a 2 or 3 star review saying they refuse to install a unit that wasn't supplied to them. A week later, the owner called my business partner and said he would be willing to do it, and they simply wouldn't warranty it(which was fine since I didn't expect them to anyway). They came out to give me an estimate and wanted to charge me $2400 + $300 + 8.9%tax for the electrical, which they subcontract out. FYI, I was providing all the wiring/linesets and electrical boxes. I felt like they were purposely overcharging me to compensate for the fact they didn't sell me the unit and weren't making money on the sale or the fact that they were pissed about the review idk.. But paying $2700 to install a $2200(36,000btu 3 zone minisplit) unit was ridiculous since they were only going to send 2 techs to install it, and it would take less than 4 hours. So I decided if I was going to pay a total of $2,940 after tax I may as well buy the proper tools and do it myself!( also I was planning to add 3 more units over the next year into my shop so it would be worth the investment). I bought about $1100 on quality tools(vac pump/gauge set/Micron gauge/hvac torque wrench set/pipe bender kit/flaring tool/deburr tool/pipe cutter and a few more tools). I have installed 7 mini splits since 2017, and it was totally worth it to buy the tools since I saved so much in installs and learned a new skill. I eventually bought a recovery pump/scale/recovery tank just in case I needed to fix a leak and pump down the systems or do any repairs. I can now install units for friends and family if they ever need one and save them a lot of money, not only the install but the cost of the units themselves. I have seen videos of people having 3-4 zone units like the one I first installed being charged $10k-$14k! It nice to know I can do it for like $2500-$3000 or basically the cost of the unit.

@randybobandy9828 Жыл бұрын

@YouCanMakeThisToo in my area about 5 years ago, there were very few hvac techs that installed mini splits, let alone knew much about them. Traditional split systems are just so much more inefficient and loud/bulky.

@jslowick 3 жыл бұрын

I definitely didn't have the confidence to do my minisplit installations, so paid someone, but have a lot of electrical to do in my shop this week, and was just cursing at how annoying the locknuts were to get right, so super glad i watched this, 7 bucks on amazon! Thanks!

@YouCanMakeThisToo 3 жыл бұрын

Haha perfect, glad you watched it too then! They sure are handy.

@robert.brokaw3829 3 жыл бұрын

The shop is looking very nice. I know here in MS that both of those units will be working hard in the summer. Stay safe sir.

@YouCanMakeThisToo 3 жыл бұрын

I'm really curious to see! The doors are sealed now and even holding a 35f temperature difference with the outside the units normally idle at around 30/40% capacity and even shut down occasionally. That's about the same difference they'll hold in summer if not more, so I'm curious how much they'll run. Big reason why I sunk so much money into insulation.

@SteelBladeWoodworks 3 жыл бұрын

You know you learn something everyday, I’ve been using a flat head screwdriver to tighten those fitting nuts for years not knowing there was a wrench for them lol!!! Great video, mini-splits the way to go!!!!

@YouCanMakeThisToo 3 жыл бұрын

Haha right?! ain't that thing awesome?

@deanwoodward8026 Жыл бұрын

Every electrician I've ever seen work just hammers on a flat screwdriver. Now there's a new tool I need. Properly, btw, that's a "spanner wrench"- I've seen and used them, but larger ones for adjusting motorcycle shocks and coil over springs.

@bnasty267 2 жыл бұрын

Nice work! I appreciate the cost calculus you go through vs. a 'professional' install or warranty. Residential HVAC guys are scared of these splits, and if not, they should be. The rest of the world treats these things as disposable, and install is usually very cheap (maybe a hundred or two.) HVAC guys love to talk about warranties (and possible lack with DIY), but they forget to mention, as you said, that only the parts are covered. Their labor can easily cost 2x what the part does, and you rapidly hit the point where it's cheaper to buy a new indoor or outdoor unit. They even consider refrigerant as 'labor', and at massively inflated costs (even considering how expensive 410a is getting.) Not to mention, you need a $100+/year service contract for your warranty to be valid. I don't mind anyone making good money for their labor, if they can get it, but charging $400 to replace a $40 capacitor that requires 3 screws and 10 minutes is just ridiculous. All the big, conventional split systems are also cheaply made in or with parts made in China, so saying the minis are cheap junk is quite the stretch.

@YouCanMakeThisToo 2 жыл бұрын

Exactly, even if I have to replace these every 5 years.... really ain't that bad.

@lorenmeyer5290 3 жыл бұрын

Your wall are beautiful and thank for the AC project! Love your videos!

@YouCanMakeThisToo 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much!

@matthewwiemken7293 11 ай бұрын

Got a quote on one of these systems for 3 indoor and one outdoor and price came in over $35,000. Well, I laughed and we went with a forced air system with all new duct work for less money. I'll never go with an HVAC company who over charges for split systems and do it myself for $30,000 less and eat the cost for replacement parts if needed as you are doing:)

@YouCanMakeThisToo 10 ай бұрын

That's a wild quote

@Robertanimalis Жыл бұрын

Thanks man, nice details. I just finished with a 115v unit 12000 btu and most directions from book were good but wasn’t clear on the breaker amperage. So I got a 20a beaker and the only disconnect I could only find was a 60a disconnect (not needing it as the breaker) finished with all hook up went to turn it on and blew the 20a breaker. Went all through my wiring, all was correct couldn’t figure out the issue. Then reading the outer unit stating 25a max breaker. I figured that meant don’t go above 25 so I figured the 20 would work. Nope after much research I have to go back and try a 25a so wish me luck.

@khandam7709 2 жыл бұрын

might want to paint that dark brown metal roof white to save on your Mississippi summer AC bill. I personally would of put fiberglass batts in the ceiling, then vented the attic. vented attic allows for air to heat and move out the radient heat from the dark metal panels. When a roofline is 100% spray foamed, radiant heat will travel through the spray foam. painting the roof white reflects the radiant heat. Thanks for video, planning on DIY my own minisplits latter this year.

@tylers6798 Жыл бұрын

If you get your ODP (Canada/Ontario) or EPA 608a (USA) certificate, Senville will allow you to self install and honor warranty. Just completed my ODP and confirmed with their tech support who told me to sign my ODP cert. number under the HVAC Lic. # on the warranty card.

@YouCanMakeThisToo Жыл бұрын

Good to know!

@JkCanvas 3 жыл бұрын

Interesting video and very informative. Thank you for sharing. Now I know who to call.

@YouCanMakeThisToo 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Will!

@travisbogin1360 Жыл бұрын

Does it come with a whip from the shut oof you installed was that separate?

@rsauder 2 жыл бұрын

How do you lift the indoor unit off the wall mount after it is put on? That white plastic ring is visible when the unit it mounted and looks like garbage. Need to take it off.

@ChandraSekharUppalapati Жыл бұрын

I purchased a 110v 9k btu can't we ran the electrical through the cover and hook them inside wall outlet connection with a disconnect switch on outside

@nocommentarygaming7031 Жыл бұрын

What size copper are these? I just bought one and doesn’t say what size copper lineset

@northernhumidor5615 Ай бұрын

I found the instructions pretty easy to follow for the wall mounting plate portion.

@rogerwatson1882 2 жыл бұрын

Love the tune, what is it?

@something2do528 2 ай бұрын

Do they fill the unit with enough r410a to cover the length of lineset selected? Also you didnt check suoer heat is that not required? Thanks

@calleeharris4182 3 жыл бұрын

I’m that person that’s far more annoyed than you about the mismatched color 😂🤣. Those wall though 😍!

@thanemakes5377 3 жыл бұрын

Lol

@YouCanMakeThisToo 3 жыл бұрын

#worthit

@darkomatovina5525 Жыл бұрын

What torque wrench is that? I could not access the link to your tools used?

@dgoddard 3 жыл бұрын

Wish I could put in a mini-split where I'm at. But I'm going to have to wait until I get a new shop. The small portable air/heat unit I have works okay, but the splits work a lot better, I've heard.

@YouCanMakeThisToo 3 жыл бұрын

So far I've been really impressed with them. One of the really nice things is they run off a DC inverter so the compressor can run at less than 100%. A lot of problems can come from it only running at full blast or off, the ability for it to ramp up and down saves power and keeps the temperature and especially humidity a lot more stable.

@dgoddard 3 жыл бұрын

@@YouCanMakeThisToo Yeah, that is nice. The portable I have costs me less than $20-30 per month to heat my garage. I've been impressed with it, but it struggles when the temps get down into the 20's. But my shop isn't well insulated. So, I'm happy, but could be happier. LOL

@Codysworld405 Жыл бұрын

Good video! Looks good!

@YouCanMakeThisToo Жыл бұрын

Thanks!

@garbizwal Жыл бұрын

I have done 6 of them. They are easy to install. I call it DIY... Maybe not for a snowflake but for someone mechanical they are a breeze.

@YouCanMakeThisToo Жыл бұрын

Like everything, just depends on your prior experience. I'm not particularly mechanical though, that's why I struggled when the instructions didn't match the product.

@gerryowen5577 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for de-mystifying this process. I am curious what you used (the white stuff) on the male threads of the flare joints on the copper lines? I know most HVAC folks use a very small amount of Nylog R410A friendly lubricant/sealant on the flare mating surfaces. They seem to be very careful about not introducing anything "foreign" into the refrigerant lines. Nice clean job!

@YouCanMakeThisToo 2 жыл бұрын

It's just some thread sealant from my local hardware store that said it was refrigerant safe. If you have the time it's probably best to order the Nylog / Nylock?

@DannyB-cs9vx 2 жыл бұрын

Flair fittings don't need sealant on the threads, but it does keep the threads from seizing on each other. I worked on Reefer units for sea-going shipping containers and we used a graphite based lubricant on the threads. There is a tiny gap between the tube and flair nut, so "sealing" the threads does nothing as far as leaks are concerned.

@alglatkowski3744 Жыл бұрын

Nicely done

@YouCanMakeThisToo Жыл бұрын

Thanks!

@freeandeasy9795 2 жыл бұрын

After 8 months, what are your thoughts on the Senville? Any issues? Noticed you said you came through the cold snap earlier this year. How’s the heating portion of the mini split performing? Thanks

@YouCanMakeThisToo 2 жыл бұрын

Didn't have any issues with it. They didn't cycle down as much when we had the cold snap, but still held the shop at 65f without a problem. THey've been working great for me.

@gihadmurad 3 ай бұрын

Did you have issues with your drain line coming out of the building horizontally like that? I wonder if it would freeze during the winter before it gets a chance to drain. How cold does it get where you live?

@thaitichi 3 жыл бұрын

What is that stuff you're putting on the threads at 7:14? I thought you only needed nylog on the face of those flare fittings.

@YouCanMakeThisToo 3 жыл бұрын

Thread sealant, belts and suspenders.

@jaredvw 2 жыл бұрын

what size crows foot do I need for each connection? The crows foot kits online are up to 1" or are 1" and larger.. not sure which to get, or if it is metric on the senville

@william18miller 2 жыл бұрын

for me it was 22mm for the 3/8 line and 17mm for the 1/4 line... both fit slightly loose but sae equivalent sizes were even a bit looser than metric

@rsauder 2 жыл бұрын

Q: Where do you get the adapters (claws) for your Husky torque wrench??

@YouCanMakeThisToo 2 жыл бұрын

They're also Husky

@sakesan13 Жыл бұрын

Great video. I’m about to start installing a Senville myself. I was going to wall mount the condenser on my shop like you did. I just noticed in the instructions that Sanville says you need a minimum of 12 inches of clearance behind the unit. What are your thoughts? Obviously, we can’t get more than about 3 to 4 inches of clearance with a wall mount.

@YouCanMakeThisToo Жыл бұрын

Mine is probably around 8", I haven't had any issues in the two years mine have been running

@berniehuot8387 Жыл бұрын

Prety good video. Just a note, the crowfoot on at 90 deg or straight don’t make a difference. Your still adding length and leverage either way. But it’s very a small amount and negligible. 👍

@matthewsmith9968 2 жыл бұрын

If you remove the schrader valve how would the freon not leak out when disconnecting the vacuum lines?

@YouCanMakeThisToo 2 жыл бұрын

If I recall correctly, there was still a shut off valve after the Schrader.

@alpha_knugen8335 3 жыл бұрын

Looks like a nice Shop. I Recently started using Resin and do you use any specific Silicone Mold release or does any silicone spray work?

@YouCanMakeThisToo 3 жыл бұрын

I've got some generic stuff from amazon and it works fine

@alpha_knugen8335 3 жыл бұрын

@@YouCanMakeThisToo Okey then it should be fine with the silicone spray i aldready have but ill do a little test of it just to be sure.

@ferna1ga Жыл бұрын

Did you have to use a 10/3 wire to the unit? What size breaker? Thank you

@YouCanMakeThisToo Жыл бұрын

I think it’s a 20A breaker, so just 12 gauge. Depends on the model.

@branimal18 7 ай бұрын

Great video. I see you're using crowfoot attachments on your torque wrenches. I was thinking about buying the set from Harbor Freight. Did you use SAE or metric crowfeet? Thanks

@YouCanMakeThisToo 7 ай бұрын

I think the unit had metric fittings, so metric. I have both sets

@Redwood0351 2 жыл бұрын

Very nice, clean install!! Do the hanger brackets come with the kit? Looking to install one in our backroom.

@YouCanMakeThisToo 2 жыл бұрын

The outdoor wall mount is it's own kit separate for the unit itself

@johnversluis3084 2 жыл бұрын

aways leave the Schrader valve in because when you disconnect your gauges all the 410-a will escape and then you back to starting over !

@darlingwood 3 жыл бұрын

Dream Shop is awesome.

@YouCanMakeThisToo 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks!

@Blaze_1961 3 жыл бұрын

Does the outside unit telegraph vibrations to the walls? I've seen another video and he mentioned he wouldn't use the wall mount bracket if he were to do it again. I have my unit ordered and it is on it's way, this is my only concern so far.

@YouCanMakeThisToo 3 жыл бұрын

Same. If I’d put fiberglass in the walls it probably wouldn’t be noticeable. But eventually I’m going to move them to ground mounts.

@Blaze_1961 3 жыл бұрын

@@YouCanMakeThisToo TY for the quick reply. Our house is old with solid wood exterior walls and no studs (rough cut 1x12 faced with 3/4 lap siding) so ground mount for us.

@davekimmer5428 2 ай бұрын

I used rubber stoppers between the unit and the bracket AND between the bracket and the wall... no vibrations make it through.

@johnfithian-franks8276 3 жыл бұрын

Hi I can’t but notice that big gap in the side of your shop. I am assuming that you keep this door closed normally.

@YouCanMakeThisToo 3 жыл бұрын

If you're talking about the barn doors, yes. Up until recently they were open just for lighting sake unless it was super cold. We could have light and cold, or dark and heat... light prevailed for works sake a lot of the time. Now the doors are pretty sealed and lockable and stay buttoned up for the most part! I do look forward to nice weather when we can open up the shop though.

@user-bj4lp3fr1o 2 жыл бұрын

I don't own one but Mr Cool sells a unit with pre-charged lines. No need to vacuum or pressure test or even have gauges.

@YouCanMakeThisToo 2 жыл бұрын

I thought about mr cool but didn’t want to deal with a bunch of extra line set laying around

@tanyabjornsson13 11 ай бұрын

Hi! I’m running into an EL01 error on my unit. Any ideas on how to get that sorted out?

@YouCanMakeThisToo 10 ай бұрын

Fortunately haven't had any errors on mine, would start with the manual and then googling the model and error.

@hassanal-mosawi4235 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing that

@YouCanMakeThisToo 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching!

@geoffrose6824 5 ай бұрын

Hey I bought this exact unit, but the numbers on my wires going into the outdoor unit were wrong. What were your wires numbered?

@YouCanMakeThisToo 4 ай бұрын

That was so long ago I don’t remember

@allenlundy1 Жыл бұрын

Did you have two separate line sets for those units?

@YouCanMakeThisToo 7 ай бұрын

Yeah, it's a loop.

@joaquinsuarez6090 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks. How did you bend the copper pipes?

@YouCanMakeThisToo 2 жыл бұрын

Just really gently by hand. It’s pretty thin tubing

@joaquinsuarez6090 2 жыл бұрын

@@YouCanMakeThisToo Thanks. I have really hard time bending the 1/2 inch pipe 90 degrees without crunching/flatten/kinking it and the 1/2 bending tool costs over $150 for only one use. I will have to pay an ac company to bend it for me.

@IADHDD Жыл бұрын

You were supposed to leave the adapter with the blue line connected to it, release the freon in both lines. Then document the adapter with the blue line still connected to it

@buildpro9705 Жыл бұрын

Good job.

@YouCanMakeThisToo Жыл бұрын

Thanks

@cdubs1723 Жыл бұрын

Guys like this is where the 1 star reviews come from for great equipment. No micron gauge, so your hoping there’s not a small leak. You’ll only see massive leaks using gauge to view. Power to ya DIY.

@jamesnasium7036 9 ай бұрын

A micron gauge isn't for detecting small leaks. Its for helping you to determine if you have virtually all of the water vapor and other non condensables out of the system. Even if you could achieve a perfect vacuum, you still only have a pressure differential of about 16 psi between vacuum and atmosphere. That's not much of a leak down test when typical operating pressures are in the 400 psi range. That's what the high pressure nitrogen test is for. and its a step that many "full timers" skip. They don't care if all the refrigerant has leaked out 2 years after the install. The inside joke is about providing a 30/30 warranty. Translated that means 30 seconds or 30 feet down the road, whichever comes first.

@cdubs1723 9 ай бұрын

@@jamesnasium7036 you’re clearly either new to hvac or know nothing about it. You should look into decay tests and educate yourself.

@daquilema2011 3 жыл бұрын

Great video. Do U recommend this brand? It has a competitive price Appreciate your opinion Thanks

@YouCanMakeThisToo 3 жыл бұрын

It's been working well so far for me. My understanding is most mini splits are made in the same place and just rebranded though

@billygrow3d 2 жыл бұрын

👏Thank you for some really helpful tips on this install! Like most DIYer's I watched plenty of videos on this subject to familiarize myself with the subject before buying a unit and the needed supplies for installation. I appreciated the tips on the torque wrench and 90-degree angle usage, and your summation of the vacuum process relieved some anxiety one might have. Great video, and newly subscribed viewer. Questions: 1. What product were you using on the copper tread connections? -I'm planning on using Nylog thread/gasket sealant myself 2. Would blue thread locker liquid be a bad idea at the base of these threaded connections away from the flares just to help ensure no vibrational loosening?

@YouCanMakeThisToo 2 жыл бұрын

Nylog is thr gold standard from my understanding. And from some comments I’ve received apparently it’s not advised to put anything on flare fittings. Once torqued to spec they have the proper tension and adding anything to the threads throws off the engineering.

@dbc105 5 ай бұрын

How about a 3yr update? Are they working good? Have you had to replace anything?

@YouCanMakeThisToo 5 ай бұрын

I’ve had to blow out the condensate line on one of them a few times. Otherwise still chugging along great

@dbc105 5 ай бұрын

@@YouCanMakeThisToo that's not bad. Thanks

@holgate1970 Жыл бұрын

This guy is 100% on his on this install. Its not an easy install unless you have a pretty good HVAC & as well electric knowledge, & the tools. Please be aware if you purchase one of these. U may have to learn a lot doing ur homework before installing.

@f.hababorbitz Жыл бұрын

I've installed 5 minisplits so far on my property, a TurboAir, Mitsubishi, Diakin, and two Gree's (branded as Trane/American Standard), they all came with great instructions for install. I just purchased a Senville 18K HP/AC, I'm reading through the manual, it's so generic, nothing specific to the unit I purchased. I'm very disappointed in this lack of unit detail. It has nothing even in the tables for what size the refrigeration lines are, or wire size for my specific sized unit. I got this Senville to replace the TurboAir, as heat pump operation has horrible software where the unit never finishes a defrost, so ice build up occurs unit coil is iced over. If you've paid attention, you no longer can purchase R410a unless you have a EPA308 certification. Amazon and eBay were somehow forced to remove all sales from their sites. I didn't see you cover making those flare fittings, but the trick is to properly deburr the cut line, which is hard to do using a single point hand held deburring tool, a conical tool that looks like a counter bore type tool works much better, and that probably could be used, but I got a pricey Noga one to do this. Also a flaring tool that does a proper burnishing (Yellow Jacket makes a good one). I know DIY'ers may not have the tools, but buying good enough quality tools pay for them selves versus paying a HVAC tech to do it for them. You really want to run the vacuum pump overnight to remove all the water vapor from the inside of your tubing especially long runs like you have. There's no filter dryers in these units to take up any water vapor left in the lines. So a micron gauge is really desired here to ensure no leaks and all the water vapor is removed. We shall see how long any of the units last. My original old style house AC that I installed is 25 years old. But R22 is much lower pressure compared to R410a, and there's only a small electronic circuit card in the air handler that delays the blower on and off, versus a minisplit with inverter operation to fail.

@jamesnasium7036 9 ай бұрын

I agree with your basic premise that "good enough quality tools pay for them selves" and would like to add my own observations. When forming flares I can minimize the effort that it takes to remove the burr or ridge by using much smaller increments when using the tubing cutter. I use a T handled tapered reamer for tubing up to 1/2 inch. that reamer doesn't get used for anything else in order to keep the cutting edges nick free. I've been known to take a common countersink bit and use chuck from an old cordless drill as a holder. The Yellow Jacket and the similar Ridgid eccentric flaring tools are nice but the big orange store has one one sold under their Husky brand for less than $50 or about 1/3 the price of the YJ. Rather than simply let a vacuum pump run overnight, I'd rather have the knowledge that it is working effectively. For that I'd recommend spending the money on any of the name brand micron gauges that the pro's use. Don't bother with extra bells and whistles like bluetooth and WiFi. Personally I own a CPS VG200. Simple to use and easy to clean if necessary. Any serious DIYer should have a nitrogen regulator and tank. If you already have an argon tank for TIG welding, that would be a suitable substitute. Use it with the N2 regulator instead of the flow reg. Same CGA580 threads. Yes, argon is more expensive but for the small amount needed for the high pressure test its better than buying or renting a separate tank. Its better to find a small high pressure leak before releasing the refrigerant. There is no simple way to see how much refrigerant is needed if the system is low other than removing all of it with a recovery machine and weighing it back in. For that operation and to buy R410a refrigerant you'll need to take and pass the EPA 608 certification test. Check out skillcatapp.com for an almost free way to get your cert. There are a few things that can be said about those old R22 units. Oil the fan bearings, replace the dual capacitor every 4 or 5 years and hopefully before the compressor (or fan motor) burns out, top it off with the stuff in the green jug every year or two, feed it lots of electricity and hope that the neighbor's AC is even louder so they don't complain. I won't miss 'em.

@f.hababorbitz 9 ай бұрын

@@jamesnasium7036 I too have the same vacuum gauge. But I think most DIY'ers don't want to pay for a one time only $200 gauge. I should have taken the 608 test back when the local community college was offering them, but now they don't. I saw that skillcat test just recently, and have some videos qued up to watch. But getting affordable refrigerant from the local supply will not be cheap. I've not paid attention to what the next replacement will be. I was trained in HVAC back in 1974 via a two year trade school. First job was working for the Trane company in LaCrosse, WI as a lab tech. Did that for a year and saw I was just as smart as the engrs, so went back to school and worked a career in electronics for Collins Radio. I have to say the most useful education was the HVAC two year training. It's major cost saving doing all my own home repairs, and that's on every aspect. Just wish my age was not making everything so darn heavy.

@VTwin4Christ 2 жыл бұрын

19:08 - I see you removed that circular cap you originally had placed into the hole. I made the SAME mistake, hung the unit and was like ... OOOO that looks like crap! LOL Gerry Owen's also mentioned not getting "foreign" material into your lines... That is why I purchase my linesets from deep in America VS border or sanctuary cities. :P LOL

@YouCanMakeThisToo 2 жыл бұрын

Yeah, that stupid thing ended up being more hassle than it was worth 🤣

@TageValone 2 жыл бұрын

What the torque weight for the nuts?

@YouCanMakeThisToo 2 жыл бұрын

Don’t remember, it says in the manual

@grahamwellington6556 Жыл бұрын

@@YouCanMakeThisToo Senville paper manuals have inflated numbers for torque so you might want to double check with the current online pdf manuals. I double checked with Senville support and they confirmed that the paper manuals were in error. The values for 1/2" nuts were over 50% higher in the paper manual (44 vs 26 ft-lb).

@grahamwellington6556 Жыл бұрын

Here are the numbers they sent me: Pipe Size - Primary ft-lb / Additional ft-lb 1/4 inch - 11 / 11.8 3/8 inch - 18.4 / 19.18 1/2 inch - 25.8 / 26.55 5/8 inch - 33.19 / 34.67

@origtex Жыл бұрын

Warranties on the mini splits are worthless. Try calling to make a warranty claim. It will takes weeks, and requires a HVAC tech invoice. IF a replacement part is shipped, and the problem is still there, you have to call the HVAC tech again. You will soon be at $1000 for two visits, and the mini split companies know that.

@YouCanMakeThisToo Жыл бұрын

Exactly, can order a whole new system for that or less in many cases.

@Teevibes510 5 ай бұрын

I love the music

@mariushegli 3 жыл бұрын

I have nothing to say really, but I appreciate your content, and wish to help with the yt-algorithms.

@YouCanMakeThisToo 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks!

@Reddylion 2 жыл бұрын

Nice

@YouCanMakeThisToo 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks

@stevejosrph6065 2 жыл бұрын

What's the MUSIC for ???????

@YouCanMakeThisToo 2 жыл бұрын

So the montages aren't bare silence, or sound like rabid chipmunks.

@ravenstarver1360 Жыл бұрын

what size is that crows foot?

@YouCanMakeThisToo Жыл бұрын

I just kept trying them 'till one fit right.

@ravenstarver1360 Жыл бұрын

@@YouCanMakeThisToo was hoping to know so I could just buy one before the unit arrives, only time I've needed one so far.

@YouCanMakeThisToo Жыл бұрын

I get that. I’d tell you if I remembered, but that doesn’t guarantee at all that the nut on yours will be the same as mine. Mine didn’t even match the manual. I think they just use whatever supply they have at the time.

@ravenstarver1360 Жыл бұрын

@@YouCanMakeThisToo thanks I understand 👍

@termides 2 жыл бұрын

What I wanted to see is the line set connection from the inside unit to the actual line

@YouCanMakeThisToo 2 жыл бұрын

At about 5:00 you can see me bending out the lines attached to the unit and putting them through the wall. At 7:00 I connect the line set to the lines coming out of the unit.

@termides 2 жыл бұрын

What is holding me up after I finally found out how to open the air handler to get to the wiring I don't know where the connections are supposed to go because I have a red white green and yellow wire

@termides 2 жыл бұрын

Do you connect the end with the round connectors on it or the straight wire on the other end. I assume red to red, black to black and white to yellow and green to ground.

@termides 2 жыл бұрын

Your video did not show connecting the line set to the air handler even though you say you did

@YouCanMakeThisToo 2 жыл бұрын

Ah, my bad. I was just thinking of the refrigerant lines when you said line set, not the electrical. I don’t remember the details.. the manual or panel in the unit should have some kind of wiring diagram. The end with connectors probably goes in the unit and the bare end is for connecting to the disconnect

@troyyarbrough 2 жыл бұрын

When you were connecting the wires in the unit, I said to myself "I hope he doesn't shock himself." But then my more intelligent brain cell woke up and said "Hey stupid, there is no power to it yet." I'm glad I have at least one smart brain cell. lol

@YouCanMakeThisToo 2 жыл бұрын

Lol yeah it was all cold

@RARELYSERIOUSB 3 жыл бұрын

Pulling a vacuum by time or using your gauge manifold is pointless. It is like cooking to time and not using a meat thermometer. Most likely it will work. But a leak would have to be huge to tell that way. The proper technique is a triple evacuation. Vacuum pump, then break that with nitrogen, then again on the vacuum pump. Once you are down to 400-500 microns valve it off and watch the micron gauge. If it holds for about 15 minutes your system is tight and more importantly dry. The point of the vacuum pump is actually to eliminate moisture.

@markimbesi4791 3 жыл бұрын

Agreed, not only break with nitrogen, but pressurise with nitrogen and soap test( within system limits).

@YouCanMakeThisToo 3 жыл бұрын

Good to know, thanks for sharing! This is way outside my depth. So far everything seems to be going alright (even after the recent deep freeze) so hopefully I got lucky.

@RARELYSERIOUSB 3 жыл бұрын

@@YouCanMakeThisToo as long as you didn’t have an immediate leak or a lot of moisture in the system it should be ok. But it is about longevity. A system done properly could have X2 the life long term. Keep up the good work

@jw3256 3 жыл бұрын

I would have called a competent installer to perform a task you don't have the proper test instruments for

@daltonduperreault3504 2 жыл бұрын

@@RARELYSERIOUSB Even if i did this DIY and only got half the lifespan vs paying for a professional install, I'd still come out ahead because the cost of install is about 200% of the price of the unit.

@gunracersr Жыл бұрын

code does not require a disconnect box. code requires a source of disconnect. if you put a 240v plug and use it like a 240v volt appliance there would still be a source of disconnect at the appliance

@jamesnasium7036 9 ай бұрын

By the time you buy a plug, outlet, weather tight box, one of those covers that allows you to have the plug in while still providing weather protection and most likely a double pole GFCI breaker because you now have an outlet in a damp/wet/outdoor location, what have you saved? At the time of this writing, a 60A non fused disconnect at the big orange store is $15.

@YouCanMakeThisToo 7 ай бұрын

Exactly. Significantly cheaper. I can buy a lot of disconnects for the price of one dual pole GFCI breaker. Or one for the price of a water tight cover. Or one for the price of a plug.. That said he is correct in stating that the requirement is a means of breaking the circuit, not a service switch per se. Just neglected to mention that the alternative isn't cost effective, but it is allowed. So if you happened to have all those things laying around but not a disconnect.. might make sense.

@gunracersr 7 ай бұрын

Or if where you are installing the unit already has an outdoor box with a gfci within 6 ft of it. That way no extra money needs to be spent. Not always practical but can get lucky from time to time

@YouCanMakeThisToo 7 ай бұрын

@gunracersr exactly. No need to rip that out and replace with a disconnect unless you just want to

@MrKdebolt 2 жыл бұрын

Pipe dope on flare nuts is a big no no

@calldeltosell Жыл бұрын

Just a small thought, nothing big. Did anyone tell you there is a "minimum depth of bury" on conduit and wire (conditions apply) and that the NEC won't let you run NMB in conduit - certainly not flex. Flex is limited to 6 feet (unless something changed since I retired). You can run NMB in conduit for physical protection. Some will argue that if you up-size conduit far enough using the physical outside dimensions of the "Romex" as you called it, that you can run in conduit. If you had it inspected, I would have expected the electrical inspector to have said something. Not every jurisdiction inspects or requires licensed contractors.

@YouCanMakeThisToo Жыл бұрын

I definitely didn’t follow the minimum bury depth on this. I just pulled stranded through it though, not romex.

@calldeltosell Жыл бұрын

@@YouCanMakeThisToo - very good. Some will still argue you can pull NMB. It is physically possible - with a big enough conduit. But man, what a PIA. If you used stranded or even solid THHN, it's so much easier. As far as depth of bury, well - rest assured, you are not the first and won't be the last. I have always been told, it's primarily for mechanical protection. You had it pretty close to the foundation so being broken by vehicles or even foot traffic should be greatly reduced. Good quality video production. And the attention to audio was evident.

@YouCanMakeThisToo Жыл бұрын

That was my thinking here too. It was a while back and I think I WANTED to get it 12”, but the ground was so damn hard we had to use an auger just to break it at all and figured so long as it was covered it was good enough 🤣🤣 just didn’t want it exposed to be easily damaged. And as you mentioned, it’s not like it’s out on clear yard to be easily damaged by shallow bury.

@calldeltosell Жыл бұрын

@@YouCanMakeThisToo - so true. Try hand digging through an old gravel driveway. 😂. If you find yourself in a similar situation - it's good to spring for schedule 80. If questioned by Codes, you have something to negotiate with. "The 'alternative engineered' approach." If that fails - try "I have it on a combination breaker and if it fails - I'm the one fixing it."

@Myfiddles 10 ай бұрын

DO NOT USE THREAD SEALANT!. Sorry to be so loud but I worked at refrigeration systems for 47 years and I know what I am talking about. The refrigerant metering device in any refrigeration system has a pin hole opening that will freeze and or simply plug solid if even a very small drop of this sealant gets into the system. This can can cause very major repair problems. If you feel the need to lubricated your flare fittings use only a small amount of refrigerant oil.

@YouCanMakeThisToo 10 ай бұрын

That's a great point that's come up quite a few times in the comments, thanks for sharing

@matthewodonnell1856 9 ай бұрын

Depends on the thread sealant. If it’s nylon blue you are using then it’s no problem at all. It’s just refrigeration oil essentially and there’s no harm to the system what so ever. It wont gel up and clog the TXV. A lot of people use it on flare nuts especially the back side where the copper mates. The only real concern with it is when using a torque wrench you can over tighten it. Because of that I simply use the lower end of the spectrum when tightening.

@machr85 Жыл бұрын

Why do these people installing mini splits never talk about the electrical part, what type breaker what Guage wire....

@YouCanMakeThisToo Жыл бұрын

Because it depends on the size of your unit and the motor used. The data plate will tell you the amp draw. Pick a breaker size above the draw, then check what wire gauge goes with that size breaker. Odds are you’re looking at 20A breaker and 12g wire unless it’s a really big or really small unit.

@evanmeeks9248 3 жыл бұрын

at 13 seconds--- Did you just inadvertently out the bad spray foam company? lol

@YouCanMakeThisToo 3 жыл бұрын

🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️

@evanmeeks9248 3 жыл бұрын

@@YouCanMakeThisToo I refuse to believe this was a mistake.Rather it's the most cunning, inconspicuous retaliation I've ever seen. You my friend are a genius.

@ride-it-outtimandtoni232 2 жыл бұрын

Check your copper line sets that white ISO POLAR insulation is causing an acidic climate when wet that creates pin holes in the copper. I pulled out a run and put up a video of it leaking through little pin holes over a 15 ft span. Still have another 160 Ft to pull out and the suppliers and manufacturers are trying to hide the failure and pass costs on to you.

@YouCanMakeThisToo 2 жыл бұрын

Good to know, thanks!

@johnversluis3084 2 жыл бұрын

leave the charging Hvac to a Pro not a DIY job you can get hurt if aDIY is doing the charging the system when ver I pulled a Vacuum it was min 30-45 min depending how much humility is in the air

@sprockkets 2 жыл бұрын

Hey there, if you used Romex that's a no no. You cannot use romex, even in conduit, outdoors. It will absorb moisture and eventually mess up. Also, if your disconnect is right around the corner from the unit, you do not need a disconnect. A disconnect is only needed if the main breaker is not accessible in 20ft. You should however put in a rectorseal gas charged surge protector on it. $50 on ebay.

@wings2004 2 жыл бұрын

What are you talking about? The individual strands in the Romex are thwn. Romex is used all the time in unconditioned and protected environments. If it's in the conduit, it's sealed and wouldn't be a wet environment. For that matter they make direct burial Romex that doesn't even need the conduit!

@sprockkets 2 жыл бұрын

@@wings2004 That's not romex. You need to read up on the NEC code. Those are not my words. Romex has paper insulation in it. That insulation absorbs moisture.

@sprockkets 2 жыл бұрын

@@wings2004 Educate yourself here: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/gK1mn5yn1rSUpXk.html

@mrbmp09 4 ай бұрын

3 years later in 2024 the instructions are still a joke. About 40 different wiring diagrams for the outdoor unit named with different letters, none of which corespond to any letter in the part number. The indoor unit does not even have a wiring diagram. You have to solve the riddle and match the tiny, barely visible numbers on ONE END of the power cord with numbers on the terminal block.

@YouCanMakeThisToo 4 ай бұрын

Exactly. My biggest gripe about that product and why I’m hesistant to call it DIY

@beauxbrasseur 4 ай бұрын

Why are you saying not DIY when there are thousands of amateurs reviewing it saying they did it perfectly…?

@YouCanMakeThisToo 4 ай бұрын

I say why in the video.

@Barryd57 2 жыл бұрын

I installed a Senville and it was NOT a DIY project. In total, I had 30+ hours into the project and I'm an accomplished car, plane and house builder.

@YouCanMakeThisToo 2 жыл бұрын

I believe it. Do-able, but not friendly.

@johnm.peterson1095 2 жыл бұрын

To wordy, skips the important parts

@YouCanMakeThisToo 2 жыл бұрын

Which parts did you think were most important to be highlighted?

@johnm.peterson1095 2 жыл бұрын

@@YouCanMakeThisToo Detail on vacuuming the copper tubing, and opening the valves to let the R410 flow. Show the cable terminals that join both inter and outer electric panels are the same wire sequence.

@user-ik6nn4yd3r 6 ай бұрын

NEVER put any product or sealant on the fittings, i dont know why everyone is putting some sort of sealant on the threads , you get that stuff into the system and its Kaboom for the compressor. STOP doing that !

@q3563111 Жыл бұрын

that was a waste of time, I watched several videos about this and everyone somehow skips the "vacuum the line" process and acts like it's nothing. and that's the only reason people are watching the videos for. it's obvious the reason they skip it is because someone else did it for them.

@YouCanMakeThisToo Жыл бұрын

9:00 to 11:30. If my talk through how I used the manifold to pull vacuum didn’t get you there, I recommend searching for video on how to use a vacuum manifold gauge. And no worries on implying I’m a liar. I get that your frustrated. I also recommend going through the comments here. Lots of good feedback from hvac guys on howto vacuum better