How To Install A Heat Pump

Installing a heat pump is essential for a home that requires heating during the subzero temperatures throughout the year. A heat pump is an ideal heating system for homes that require constant, regulated heat. Heat pump installation is a highly involved task

 It shouldn’t be done by novice DIYers due to the complexity of it. Only experienced DIYers should attempt the task. Those that do not feel comfortable doing so should contact a HVAC pro in the area.

How Do Heat Pumps Work?

A heat pump moves heat to specific areas around the home. The heat is moved to the cooler rooms that require it through power in the heat pump. This not only makes the space warmer in the winter, but also cooler in the summer months.

Heat pumps are a very energy-efficient choice for homes. It is also a great way to save money both on installation, but also the cost you spend on utility bills.

Tools Needed

  1. Heat pump and condenser
  2. Drill
  3. Hammer
  4. Pliers
  5. Cable tie
  6. Wire stripper
  7. Level
  8. Tape
  9. Hole saw with a 1/2' minimum

Heat Pump Installation

The following steps are for the mini-split AC heat pump unit. Take care while doing this and always consult a professional if you’re unsure.

Step 1: Install the Condenser
The condenser is installed outside of the home. The heat and air is converted and transferred to the inside of the home through this unit.

Drill a 1/2’ hole in the wall to place the refrigerant lines. The condenser should always be at least 4 or more feet away from the home. There should be at least 20’ of clear space in front of and above the unit.

Step 2: Add the Air Handler Mount
The air handler is the device that sends the cool or hot air into the specific rooms inside the home. It should be within 30” from the condenser outside, cords will be connecting the two. It has to be at least 2’ from the ceiling and nowhere near any televisions.

Screw the mount into the wall. Then cut a 3’ hole right below it for the connection cords to go through.

Step 3: Mount the Handler on the Mount
Before mounting the handler, ensure that all of the wires on the inside of the unit are properly secured. Connect the three wires together using tape or cable ties to ensure that they’re secured.

Hold the handler up and feed the wires through the wall. Once fed through the wall, place the handler onto the mount. Once in place, screw it down. Double check to make sure it is properly fastened.

Step 4: Connect the Handler to the Condenser
Grab the wires sent out from the inside of the home and connect to the condenser. Plug the power unit to the condenser into a breaker cable.

Connect the control wire from the outside unit to the inside unit. Connect the refrigerant lines to the condenser. Flare nuts can be an extra precaution used for connection of these lines.

Step 5: Cover the Lines
You can purchase covers for the lines so that they’re not unsightly on the side of your home. A plastic covering provides the protection the lines need, without the ugly look.

Step 6: Final Connections
Connect the gauge manifold and the vacuum pump to the refrigerant lines. Both of these detect dry lines and leaks to ensure that the system is maintained and safe to use.

Install the cover on the air handler.

Installation of a heat pump is no easy task, but it can help to save cash on utility bills. This is why many homeowners opt for this type of system. As always, speak with a HVAC professional should you need assistance.