Mini Split Wires: Everything You Need to Know

Mini split wires are the cables that connect the outdoor compressor unit with the indoor evaporator unit. They carry electricity and control signals, so it's important to choose the right type of wire and size for your system.

In this blog post, we'll discuss everything you need to know about mini split wires, including:

• The different types of mini split wires
• The correct wire size for your system
• How to install mini split wires
• Common mini split wiring problems

The different types of mini split wires

There are two main types of mini split wires: power wires and control wires.

• Power wires carry electricity from the circuit breaker to the outdoor unit. They are typically 14-gauge stranded conductors with a dedicated ground.
• Control wires carry control signals between the indoor and outdoor units. They are typically 24-gauge stranded conductors.

The correct wire size for your system

The correct wire size for your mini split system will depend on the size of your system and the voltage of your electrical service.

• Small systems (9k - 12k BTU) typically require 14-gauge power wires.
• Medium systems (18k - 24k BTU) typically require 12-gauge power wires.
• Large systems (30k - 40k BTU) typically require 10-gauge power wires.

How to install mini split wires

Installing mini split wires is a relatively simple process, but it's important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid making mistakes.

Here are the basic steps involved in installing mini split wires:

1. Run the wires from the circuit breaker to the outdoor unit.
2. Connect the power wires to the terminals on the outdoor unit.
3. Connect the control wires to the terminals on the indoor unit.
4. Test the system to make sure it's working properly.

Common mini split wiring problems

There are a few common mini split wiring problems that can occur. These include:

• Incorrect wire size. Using the wrong wire size can cause the system to overheat or malfunction.
• Loose connections. Loose connections can cause arcing and sparking, which can lead to a fire.
• Damaged wires. Damaged wires can cause the system to short circuit.

If you need help with your mini split wiring, please contact us today. We'll be happy to help you choose the right type of wire, size the wire correctly, and install the wires properly.