Wiring for mini-split

[cw_racefan]

Just ordered a 2 ton mini-split system for my garage. I'm doing the grunt work of the install, mounting, running the wiring, etc, and a neighbor who is an HVAC guy is going to do the rest of the install. I just wanted to make sure I had my ducks in a row for the wiring. The unit requires a 20 amp 240 circuit. My plan was to run 12/2 to a disconnect outside. What do I run to the unit itself? Can I just use UF cable? It includes the wiring from the inside unit to the outside unit so I don't need to worry about that. I also understand code requires a GFCI outlet within 15 feet (or is it 25 feet) of the outdoor unit. Can the outlet be inside? I have an outlet that is within that distance if the garage door is opened.

Thanks!
Craig

 

[JMURiz]

Sorry no advice for you, but let me know how the install goes. What unit did you go with? I'm in Arlington VA and hope to do this as well.

 

[cw_racefan]

Sorry no advice for you, but let me know how the install goes. What unit did you go with? I'm in Arlington VA and hope to do this as well.

I went cheap, and got one from a place called Bonaire Depot on Ebay. Seem to have good feedback on their units, and have been around for a while. We'll see, but I figured I'd take a chance on it. I can install several of these before I approach the price of some of the other manufacturers!

 

[Aceman]

What do I run to the unit itself? Can I just use UF cable? It includes the wiring from the inside unit to the outside unit so I don't need to worry about that.

Ideally, you would use a ~4' piece of pvc flex with #12 thwn wire from the disco to ac unit. Unless you want to buy a whole roll of flex, a premade pvc flex whip is also available. I don't know if they offer them with #12 wire as I've only seen them with #8. Just a little overkill for what you need.

I also understand code requires a GFCI outlet within 15 feet (or is it 25 feet) of the outdoor unit. Can the outlet be inside? I have an outlet that is within that distance if the garage door is opened.

They make a combination AC disco with a GFCI receptacle inside it. All you would need to do is pull another 12-2 to it for the recep power. The recep must be within 25' and accessible. I don't think an inspector would pass it if it was behind a garage door.

 

[hdn9587]

12-2 ufb is fine if you are on a budget A piece of 1/2" Liquid tight with a couple of connectors 1 at disc one at cu with 12 ga thhn would be better Not sure of your code regs in your area if u lived in west va there are not much for codes

 

[cw_racefan]

Thanks for the reply. I ended up using a premade whip (basically 1/2" liquid tight with THHN already in, ends already installed). I also used the combination outlet disconnect mentioned above. Quick and easy to wire, HVAC guy hooked the rest up and we're in business.

12-2 ufb is fine if you are on a budget A piece of 1/2" Liquid tight with a couple of connectors 1 at disc one at cu with 12 ga thhn would be better Not sure of your code regs in your area if u lived in west va there are not much for codes

 

[ilateapex]

Craig,

How is the "cheap" mini split doing? I am getting ready to order one and was hoping yours was still going strong with no problems.

Thanks,

Michael

 

[cw_racefan]

Well, it's working, though has developed a very small leak in the evaporator coil. HVAC guy can't completely isolate it so I've just been living with it. Kind of trying to see how long it will go between needing a charge. Of course the company I bought from is now out of business (had been around for 7-8 yrs before I bought so figured I was safe), so parts are non-existent. This HVAC guy has never worked on a mini-split before though, and I can't seem to get ahold of the one who did the install for me, since he had installed a bunch of them, so maybe someone more familiar would be able to find parts. I assume the parts are generic and you could stick another coil in it, but by that time you might as well buy a new one for the $$. Bottom line is I would suggest spending a little more and get more of a name brand.

Craig

 

[Norcal]

12-2 ufb is fine if you are on a budget A piece of 1/2" Liquid tight with a couple of connectors 1 at disc one at cu with 12 ga thhn would be better Not sure of your code regs in your area if u lived in west va there are not much for codes

A UF whip is a horrible way to connect a unit,plus IMO it does not meet the "Protection from physical damage" rules of the NEC. The OP's method of using sealtite for a A/C whip is the best way.

 

[ilateapex]

Craig,

Thanks for the response. What was the brand you purchased? I am looking at some not so name brand units as they are half the cost of the big names. Ramsond and Air-Con are two that I like with Air-Con being the favorite with a 20 SEER for around $1K

Michael

 

[cw_racefan]

Michael -

The brand is Bonaire, sold through Bonaire Depot. As I said, they pretty much disappeared. I have seen the Ramsond brand online, but not the Air-con. Mine was like $1100 with shipping for a 2 ton, 13 SEER, R410a.

Craig