5 Common Mistakes DIYers Make When Installing a MRCOOL System
1. Getting the Line Set Length Wrong
This trips up a lot of people, especially with multi-zone setups. The problem is that MRCOOL's pre-charged line sets come in fixed lengths, you can't just cut them shorter like regular copper lines. So if you order the wrong size, you're stuck with lines that are either too long (creating loops you have to deal with) or too short (game over). Measure twice, order once! We get customers time and time again that order the wrong size lineset and then have to return them and get a longer one.
2. Wiring by Color Instead of Number
Here's a sneaky one: the control wires on MRCOOL DIY systems need to match by NUMBER, not by color. I know, your brain wants to match colors because that's what we're all used to, but don't do it! The numbers can be tiny and hard to read on the connectors, but take the time to match them up correctly for each zone. Getting this wrong means your system simply won't work. Make sure to read the manual carefully.
3. Poor Insulation on Refrigerant Lines
Those refrigerant lines need to be wrapped up tight with proper insulation - no gaps, no shortcuts. If you leave sections exposed or don't wrap them well, you'll end up with reduced efficiency, annoying noises, and condensation dripping everywhere. Take your time and do it right the first time. MRCOOL has a guide here that walks through it.
4. Forgetting to Open the Valves
You'd be surprised how many people finish the whole installation and wonder why nothing's working... only to realize they never opened the refrigerant valves. The manual will tell you when to do it, but it's easy to miss in all the excitement. Multi-zone systems are even trickier because you might have both a king valve AND line set valves to open. Double-check this one!
5. Messing Up the Drain Slope
The condensate drain seems simple, but if it's not angled downward properly, you're going to have water backing up and leaking inside your house. It doesn't need a crazy steep slope, just a consistent gentle angle so gravity can do its job. Get out your level and make sure it's right.
Pro tip: Before you connect anything, check those dust caps on the pre-charged line sets. Sometimes they fall off during shipping, and you definitely don't want dirt or debris getting into your system. A quick inspection can save you a world of hurt later.
Conclusion
It's easy to make mistakes when installing a DIY system, but if you take your time, watch videos online, and read the manual carefully you can get it right! If you have any questions or concerns feel free to give us a call at (888) 231- 8920! We are happy to help.
