Thoughts about Lineset runs

[Russell_Reid]

I purchased a MrCool DIY 5 Gen 3 zone minisplit system for my new outbuilding. I am trying to plan the run for the linesets to the indoor units. I intend to use downspout for the covers and the way i run the linesets has a big impact on how much i need for that. So i am looking for opinions to help me decide.
A bit of additional info on the project:
Outbuilding Metal, 2.5" box tube frame: 24x50, Half finished out for wife's business (600sq ft), other half is my shop (600sq ft). Ceiling height in office is 9ft, attic area above. Shop is open to deck, walls 10', peak 13', shop walls OSB up to 9ft.
Interior walls are all framed with 2x4 inside the metal frame, including shop. Exterior shell walls and underside of roof is 5" open cell spray foam.
Minisplit is 36k 3 zone, 6k for small room, 12k for large room, 18k for shop. 35ft precharged linesets for all units. Dallas tx area.
I have two options for running the linesets (see pics, orange is lineset, blue is condensate). Option 1, exterior runs, Option 2 interior runs. I prefer Option 2. But the lineset run to the small office is tricky as it goes through the attic. And i have to run the condensate line through the storage room.
Thoughts? Advice? This is my first minisplit install.

 

[jack stand]

Isn't it the "pre charge" within the outside unit itself and there's a number of feet of line set that it can charge properly?
This would be my consideration for the shortest total linear ft of line set.
That's if I'm correct.
I'd prefer the lower design shown eliminating anything on the outside and stuffing it through a bunch of downspout.

 

[Russell_Reid]

The MrCool DIY system has precharged linesets. So you can install without needing to purge and vacuum the lines. You run everything and then open the valves and test for leaks. I definitely prefer Option 2 as it looks the cleanest on the outside (that wall faces the pool).

 

[fitter30]

Line set covers not downspout. Wiring, lines and possibly drains all have to fit buy a larger size than you think. Any excess tubing has to be looped horizontal plane as to not trap oil. Option 2 Measure the line sets garage probably won't be 35'.

 

[Russell_Reid]

I am worried about fit. The unit hasn't arrived yet so i cant measure diameter. Hard to find any data online about the overall dimensions of the linesets including insulation. When i was looking at the options the cost for lineset covers for option 1 were pretty high. Some people have posted about successfully using downspout in place of the covers for the cost savings. Since i will probably use Option 2 i can get one of the 5" lineset cover sets on amazon for about $100.
The garage unit appears to be just under 25' depending on how the run works out. The final placement of the condenser is still in flux. I ordered all 35' just to be safe. I am hoping i can exchange the 35' for a 25' once the final placement is set and i can get a real measurement.

 

[dscheidt]

I am worried about fit. The unit hasn't arrived yet so i cant measure diameter. Hard to find any data online about the overall dimensions of the linesets including insulation. When i was looking at the options the cost for lineset covers for option 1 were pretty high. Some people have posted about successfully using downspout in place of the covers for the cost savings. Since i will probably use Option 2 i can get one of the 5" lineset cover sets on amazon for about $100.
The garage unit appears to be just under 25' depending on how the run works out. The final placement of the condenser is still in flux. I ordered all 35' just to be safe. I am hoping i can exchange the 35' for a 25' once the final placement is set and i can get a real measurement.

I used a downspout for the first mini I installed. It sucked, because you have to shove the lineset through it, instead of mounting half the cover to the building, installing the lineset, and snapping the top cover on. Get the right stuff, it's worth the money. plan your run, and make sure you get all the elbows you need, because some varieties are hard to find.

 

[KenC]

I used plastic guttering for my covers. Cut Short sections top and bottom fastened to the brick facing out, and one long piece fastened to them with screws. Open sides facing each other. Looks much like the factory cover sets but without the protrusion at the top to house the horizontal to vertical bend. I was going through 2x6 and brick, so just opened up the brick opening a bit to allow the bend, all covered when done anyway. The outer piece is notched at the top so it fits from the soffit to near the line exit at the compressor.

And don't forget to seal the hole with canned foam to prevent air/insect leaks outside to in.