Multi-zone install differences from single zone

[bzinsky]

So I’ve installed 20 single zone units (all the same LG unit)

I have all the tools and did a lot of research and did it perfectly

I’m about to install a 5 zone unit. Unsure of manufacturer.

The only thing I don’t know how to do, is use a 3 guage manifold and take 410 out or put it back in. For the singles I just vacuumed them down to 100 microns and opened the king valve.

Curious what would be different about a multizone installation. Would I need any more tools? Like not sure if I vacuum the whole entire system at once or it’s done individually.

 

[justinjoyal]

So I’ve installed 20 single zone units (all the same LG unit)



I have all the tools and did a lot of research and did it perfectly



I’m about to install a 5 zone unit. Unsure of manufacturer.



The only thing I don’t know how to do, is use a 3 guage manifold and take 410 out or put it back in. For the singles I just vacuumed them down to 100 microns and opened the king valve.



Curious what would be different about a multizone installation. Would I need any more tools? Like not sure if I vacuum the whole entire system at once or it’s done individually.

Same procedure, one zone at a time.

 

[bzinsky]

Same procedure, one zone at a time.

I just see pictures like this and it looks like there is one access port to pull a vacuum and you would have to vacuum down the whole system.

Just kinda wondering if I can get away with only using my vacuum pump again and simply opening the king valves without a manifold gauge and without a spare bottle of 410. (I would just have to do a lot of research to know how to use them)

 

[Gerald O]

Same procedure, one zone at a time.

Many multi-zone systems require all zones to be purged/evacuated simultaneously because they have a shared manifold. To open a single zone you have to pump down the entire system.

 

[justinjoyal]

Many multi-zone systems require all zones to be purged/evacuated simultaneously because they have a shared manifold. To open a single zone you have to pump down the entire system.

Possible.

All multizones systems I installed have separate valves though.

OP: what model unit are you installing ?

 

[Git]

Many multi-zone systems require all zones to be purged/evacuated simultaneously because they have a shared manifold. To open a single zone you have to pump down the entire system.

That is how it was on my Mitsubishi Mr Slim

 

[bzinsky]

Possible.

All multizones systems I installed have separate valves though.

OP: what model unit are you installing ?

I'm not sure yet. I'll be selling this property when finished. So not sure I want to shell out for fujitsu or mitsu. I don't want **** in there, but you know how it goes.

but it seems like most of the options for 5 zones have the double stacked compressors, and it seems like most of them require a separate branch box.

I suppose the branch box is nice because then I don't have to run all 5 linesets back down to the compressor.

Then again that adds some complexity that I don't fully understand. I hate ordering parts and starting a job without fully understanding the system.

Does the branch box typically require power?

Honestly I would hire someone, but I have a lot of trouble finding someone that appreciates the importance of precision with mini-splits. I've found their output is considerably lower and they can't handle cold temps as well if they are not precisely vacuumed and pressurized. This will be the sole source of heat in a climate that can get down to single digits.

I would certainly hire an experienced garage journal member if anybody is interested, property is in NJ in the Philadelphia region.

 

[justinjoyal]

I like Gree units. Chech them out!

 

[bzinsky]

Yeah I was thinking about gree as well.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/GREE-Mu...d-Remote-230-Volt-60Hz-MULTI42HP500/205428740

this one in particular. Looks like it has 5 seperate line set connections which makes it simple atleast.

Not sure how to vacuum this one down

 

[yeldogt]

not getting rave reviews

 

[PoorOwner]

it looks to me it has a second port on the high / saturated vapor side. For vacuuming purposes before starting up, you can draw both together, through a manifold or tee.

How about just get a two machines, 2 zone and a 3 zone. Seems less troublesome to me.

 

[aunsafe2015]

Does the branch box typically require power?

Yes.