Mini-Split System

Detail ID 5.0108.3
Topic
Forced Air
Subtopic
Equipment Installation
Desired Outcome

Safe, compliant, efficient, and effective system installation in which sequence of operation is correct

SF Single Family Site-Built Housing
MH Manufactured Housing
MF Multifamily Housing

Specifications

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Perform residential load calculation in accordance with the current version of ANSI/ACCA Manual J (Residential Load Calculation) or equivalent using interior design temperatures of 75 degrees for cooling and 70 degrees for heating

Perform commercial load calculation in accordance with the current version of ANSI/ACCA Manual N (Commercial Load Calculation) or equivalent using interior design temperatures of 75 degrees for cooling and 70 degrees for heating

Room by room load calculations will be performed when installing multiple indoor units

Calculated loads based on post-retrofit dwelling characteristics

Equipment design load calculated correctly for post-retrofit dwelling

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Select residential equipment in accordance with the current version of ANSI/ACCA Manual S (Residential Equipment Selection) or equivalent

Select commercial equipment in accordance with the current version of ANSI/ACCA Manual CS (Commercial Applications, Systems and Equipment) or equivalent

Select system that is ENERGY STAR® certified or equivalent

Select outdoor units that are corrosion-protected for marine climate zones

When applicable, supply multiple indoor units with a single outdoor unit using manufacturer specifications to determine allowable overage of indoor unit capacity in relation to the outdoor unit and derated capacity of indoor units based on outdoor design temperature

When applicable, select units that offer ducting options (e.g., ceiling cassette units have a knock out for a 5" or 6" duct) and/or have an outdoor air intake

Select equipment capable of meeting the design loads

Equipment operates at optimal efficiency and reduced cost

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Locate unit with manufacturer recommended clearance on all sides and to allow service access according to applicable code

Outdoor unit located to facilitate air-flow and service access

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Situate outdoor unit on a non-wicking equipment pad

Ensure unit is level, plumb, stable, and elevated a minimum of 6" above snow line

Stable outdoor unit that is protected from corrosion

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Install outdoor unit according to manufacturer specifications and applicable building code (e.g., IRC, IMC, IBC) and ANSI/ACCA Standard 5 (HVAC Quality Installation Standard)

Safe and compliant installation

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Locate indoor unit(s) to provide effective airflow to desired locations without exceeding the manufacturer specifications for refrigerant line total length

Maintain clearances in accordance with manufacturer specifications

Effective location selected for indoor unit(s)

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Install indoor unit(s) according to manufacturer specifications and applicable building code (e.g., IRC, IMC, IBC) and ANSI/ACCA Standard 5 (HVAC Quality Installation Standard)

Safe, effective, and compliant installation

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Insulate concealed ceiling cassette unit(s) to a minimum of R-6 when contained inside a building cavity, (even when inside the thermal boundary) without hindering access to serviceable parts

Insulation must include a sealed vapor retarder layer

Prevent water damage to structure

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Securely mount indoor unit(s) according to manufacturer specifications ensuring condensate drainage is correctly sloped

Securely mounted with properly functioning drain pan

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Install electrical wiring according to NFPA 70, and

Provide an electrical disconnect within site of the outdoor unit

Install all high voltage wiring inside of protective conduit and approved junction boxes, no wiring connections (high or low voltage) will occur outside of appropriate junction box

Safe and compliant electrical wiring installation

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Locate all intakes/terminations in compliance with manufacturer specifications and applicable building code

System intakes/terminations that are operational, safe, and compliant

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Install equipment connections (e.g., electrical service, condensate drains, ductwork, refrigerant lines) to allow for necessary service and repair access to all portions of the equipment

Equipment connections do not interfere with operation and service of equipment

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

When applicable, install ducting per the manufacturer specifications in runs that do not exceed 6' per run

Insulate all ducts, including those inside the thermal boundary, to a minimum of R-6 with insulation that includes a sealed vapor barrier

Low static pressure ducts that are condensation-resistant

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Total equivalent length of refrigerant piping will not exceed system manufacturer specifications

Install refrigerant piping according to SWS detail "Refrigerant Piping"

Install refrigerant charge according to SWS detail "Refrigerant Charge"

Safe and effective refrigerant piping

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Install wall mounted thermostats that are not within the direct airflow of the indoor unit

Independent system controls that are not affected by supply air

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Install an independent condensate drain for each indoor unit according to SWS for "Condensate Disposal"

Install a float switch in the drain pan that interlocks with the cooling system power to turn unit off when pan is not draining

Pipe condensate to a properly sized sanitary drain or the outdoors

When there is potential for condensation or freezing of the drain line, insulate condensate drain lines to a minimum of R-4 with insulation that contains a Class II or greater vapor retarder

Independent and functional condensate drainage that prevents water damage

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Provide occupants/owners with user's manual, warranty information, installation instructions, and installer contact information

Provide occupants and service technicians with instructions

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