In this article, “Drilling Through Thick Brick Wall: Installing a Mini Split,” you’ll learn all about the process of installing a mini split, the latest technology in cooling. The installation involves mounting the indoor unit on a masonry wall using tapcons and construction glue, drilling a pilot hole through a thick brick wall for the refrigerant lines, power wire, and drain tube, and connecting the mini split to Wi-Fi for remote control. The article highlights the step-by-step process, including the use of a hole saw, connecting the electricity, using a vacuum pump to remove air and moisture, releasing the refrigerant, and protecting the line sets, drain tube, and power wire with a plastic cover. Mini splits are becoming a popular choice for cooling in areas with traditional hot water boiler heat systems. Whether you’re a handyman or simply interested in learning more about this technology, this article provides valuable insights into installing a mini split.
Drilling Through Thick Brick Wall: Installing a Mini Split
Welcome back everyone! Today, we have an exciting video for you as we will be installing a mini split. This cutting-edge technology, according to our vice president, is like putting a man on the moon, but even better! Before we dive into the installation process, I’d like to let you know that we have some awesome merchandise available for you. If you want to show off your love for The Handyman, check out the link below in the video description.
First things first, let’s take a look at the room where the mini split will be installed. This indoor unit comes with a Wi-Fi-controlled app head and will be mounted on this interesting masonry wall. It seems to have a skim coat of some sort over a brick base. Since the houses in this area are all made of brick, we’ll be using tapcons and construction glue to securely mount the mini split. We want to make sure it stays put!
Now, let’s talk about the installation process step by step.
Mounting the Mini Split on a Masonry Wall
To mount the mini split on a masonry wall, we will be using tapcons and construction glue. These will ensure a sturdy and secure installation. We will tap con the unit firmly to the wall and use construction glue for the backing plate. With this combination, we can be confident that nothing is coming off that wall!
Preparing the Brick Wall for Drilling
Before drilling into the thick brick wall, we need to prepare it. Since there is no insulation behind the bricks, it is essential to take precautions to prevent any damage. We will start by drilling a small pilot hole through the bricks to keep them intact and prevent any cracking.
Drilling a Pilot Hole through the Brick Wall
Now that we have prepared the wall, it’s time to drill a pilot hole through the brick. We’ll be using a hole saw, which was an excellent purchase for this project. The hole saw effortlessly cuts through the brick wall. For added safety, we turned off the hammer function of the drill to ensure we don’t damage the bricks.
Connecting the Electricity
With the pilot hole drilled, we can now connect the electricity from the disconnect to the outdoor condenser unit. This step ensures that the mini split has the necessary power supply to function properly. We’ll carefully pass the power wire through the hole and make the necessary connections on the front side.
Connecting the Line Sets and Fittings
Next up, we will connect the line sets and fittings. We’ll be using nylog, a lubricant, to ensure smooth connections and prevent any leakage. Applying the nylog to the flared fittings and mating surfaces, we can achieve a tight seal. It’s important not to lubricate the threads, as this can lead to over-tightening and stripping.
Removing Air and Moisture from the Line Sets
To ensure optimal performance and prevent any system malfunctions, we need to remove any air and moisture from the line sets. For this, we will be using a vacuum pump. By attaching the vacuum pump to the line sets, we can suck out any air and moisture, creating a vacuum. This step is a crucial part of the installation process.
Releasing the Refrigerant into the Line Sets
Once we have successfully removed all air and moisture, it’s time to release the refrigerant into the line sets. This refrigerant is what cools the air and allows the mini split to function as an air conditioning unit. We’ll carefully open the valves to allow the refrigerant to flow through the line sets.
Connecting the Mini Split to Wi-Fi
Now for the fun part! We will connect the mini split to Wi-Fi, allowing for remote control and convenient operation. By downloading the app and pairing it with the mini split, users can easily control the temperature, fan speed, and other settings from their smartphones.
Protecting the Line Sets, Drain Tube, and Power Wire
To ensure the longevity and aesthetics of the installation, it’s crucial to protect the line sets, drain tube, and power wire. We’ll be using a plastic cover, similar to a downspout, to encase and shield these components from UV rays and potential damage. This not only adds a layer of protection but also enhances the overall appearance of the installation.
Mini Splits as an Alternative to Hot Water Boiler Heat Systems
Mini splits are becoming an increasingly popular choice for cooling in areas with traditional hot water boiler heat systems. Many homes in colder regions rely on hot water boiler systems for heating, but these systems often lack adequate cooling capabilities. Mini splits offer a viable solution for homeowners who want to enjoy the benefits of air conditioning without replacing their existing heating systems.
In conclusion, installing a mini split is a great way to add cooling functionality to any space. By following the steps outlined above, you can mount the unit securely on a masonry wall, connect the necessary components, and ensure optimal performance. Mini splits provide a convenient and energy-efficient alternative to traditional cooling systems, making them an excellent choice for any homeowner. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the comfort of a properly installed mini split!
