[RE-wrenches] mini splits

[Wayne Irwin]

Hey Jay,

I live off grid (25yrs) in North Fla. (temp range is teens - 100+ F) with mini-splits throughout the house (2,700sq').
I have used just about every brand. We primarily use them for cooling but also use heat to supplement the wood stove.
I can't imagine living without them. Although it's a love/hate relationship.
My experience is that you get about 10 years max from whatever brand you buy. Typically, the inside unit corrodes from condensation and leaks out, or the outside unit reversing valve locks up in cold or heat position. IMO They are not worth repairing. We currently have 4 - 1 Ton units and 1 - 2 ton. I only buy 1 to1 systems vs 1 -4 as it offers redundancy. I initially tried "reputable" brands which typically cost more but have since migrated to whatever is the cheapest.
That said I like Gree and/or the knock off brand that they make (good for the price and holding up well). When I am in need of more than one, I always buy an extra to swap out whichever unit dies first.
Fortunately for me, years ago, I had a buddy show me how to install them. Pretty simple. They come pre-charged and can typically handle up to 30' of line with no issues. If possible, find someone to show you once.  YouTube will offer many WRONG ways to do it videos.
I don't use the vacuum on the lines. I just keep the lines plugged and dry until I hook them up.

My 15kW array with 2 - VFX3648R's has had no issue powering any of them.

I hope this info helps.

Wayne Irwin
President
License #CVC56695
State Licensed Solar Contractor
Pure Energy Solar International Inc.
Wayne at PureEnergySolar.com
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________________________________
From: RE-wrenches <re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org> on behalf of Michael Morningstar via RE-wrenches <re-wrenches at lists.re-wrenches.org>
Sent: Thursday, March 13, 2025 11:05 AM
To: RE-wrenches <re-wrenches at lists.re-wrenches.org>
Cc: Michael Morningstar <mjmorningstar at gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] mini splits

I'm interested in this too

On Thu, Mar 13, 2025 at 7:39 AM jay via RE-wrenches <re-wrenches at lists.re-wrenches.org<mailto:re-wrenches at lists.re-wrenches.org>> wrote:
HI All,

I have been getting a lot of questions about people wanting to install mini splits in their off grid homes, and in normal homes.

The line of questions usually involves DIY vs contractor.  Of course the price difference is staggering, roughly 5X more for contractor.  And I’m being asked all sorts of questions about the DIY versions.

Is there a good place for information so I can educate myself as to the different brands etc
Or maybe someone can contact me off list if they have some info to share.

Thanks’

jay


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Michael Morningstar


Morningstar Electric Inc

PO Box 1494

Mount Shasta, CA 96067

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CSLB 1116835

mjmorningstar at gmail.com<mailto:mjmorningstar at gmail.com>

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