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What's Actually Involved in a MRCOOL DIY Install?

Sep 18
2 min read

Tools, Time, and Whether You Can Actually Do This

People ask me this more than almost anything else: "I'm not an HVAC guy. Can I really install this myself?"

Short answer: yes. Here's what that actually looks like.

Why DIY is possible in the first place

Normal mini-splits need a licensed technician because someone has to hook up special equipment and fill the system with refrigerant by hand. That takes training most homeowners don't have.

MRCOOL DIY systems skip that part. The lines that carry the refrigerant come already filled from the factory. You just connect them — no special equipment, no refrigerant handling. That's the one thing that turns this into a weekend project instead of a call to a contractor.

Tools you'll need

Nothing you don't already have or can't grab from a hardware store:

  • Drill (plus a bigger bit for the wall hole)

  • Level

  • Phillips and flathead screwdrivers

  • Tape measure

  • Adjustable wrench

  • Ladder

  • Gloves and safety glasses

What the install actually involves

  1. Pick your spots. The indoor unit needs open wall space. The outdoor unit needs a flat, level spot with room around it.

  2. Mount the indoor unit. A paper template comes with the kit — you tape it to the wall, drill through the marks, and screw in the bracket.

  3. Drill one hole through the wall behind the indoor unit. This is where the lines, wiring, and drain hose pass through to the outside. Angle it slightly downhill toward the outdoors so water drains the right way, not back inside.

  4. Set the outdoor unit on its pad or bracket. Get a second person for this step — it's heavy.

  5. Connect the lines between the indoor and outdoor units. These snap or screw together at marked connection points — no special tools, just hand-tightening and then a wrench for the final snug.

  6. Hook up the power. Follow the wiring diagram in your manual, and always shut off the breaker first. Some areas require an electrician to make this last connection even on a DIY system, so it's worth a quick check with your local permit office.

  7. Turn it on and test both heat and cool before calling it done.

How long it takes

For one indoor and one outdoor unit, plan on a few hours to a full day. If you're installing more than one indoor unit off the same outdoor unit, add time for each extra one.

Is this really for you?

If you've ever mounted a TV, hung a shelf, or done basic wiring, you can do this. If drilling through an outside wall makes you nervous, it's fine to have a friend help — you still don't need to hire a full HVAC crew.

Printed instructions and videos come with every kit, and support is a call or email away if you get stuck.


 
 
 

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