What kind of disconnect do I need for a mini split?

For safety, it utilizes a disconnect box and surge protector via electrical wires contained in a weather-proof cable called a whip. Depending on the size and model, mini splits have specific power requirements. Some small 9k – 12k BTU systems may require a 110-volt service, but most will require 220 volts or more.

What size AC disconnect do I need for mini split?





You need a minimum 25 amp breaker for mini split systems up to 24,000 BTU/2 tons. A 30 amp breaker is sufficient for 36,000 BTU/3 ton systems, and a 50 amp breaker meets requirements for larger units to 60,000 BTU/5 tons. All the details follow.

How do I disconnect my air conditioner from the outside?

You need an adjustable wrench and a set of hex wrenches.

  1. remove the valve caps. …
  2. Close the valve on the small (upper) line.
  3. Turn the unit on, COLD cycle, and listen carefully to the outer unit. …
  4. Close the valve on the lower (large) line.
  5. Turn the unit off and unplug it.
  6. Crack open the nut on the large line.

Where must a disconnect for an air conditioner be located?

Disconnecting means shall be located within sight from and readily accessible from the air-conditioning or refrigerating equipment. The disconnecting means shall be permitted to be installed on or within the air-conditioning or refrigerating equipment.

Does a mini split require a GFCI breaker?

For the 2020 NEC, all outdoor outlets for dwelling units (with exceptions) that are supplied by single-phase branch circuits rated 150 volts to ground or less, 50 amperes or less, will be required to be GFCI protected.

How do I install a mini split disconnect?





Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: Step one will be to turn off power. And then um locking and tagging that power out because we don't want anyone to turn the breaker on while we're working on it.

Can I use a 30 amp disconnect on a 20 amp circuit?

If it is a fused disconnect it will hold up to 30 amp fuses. If it has fuses just use 20 amp fuses, they will work as they are supposed to. Size the wires appropriately, usually 12 gauge for a 20 amp circuit and use a 20 amp circuit breaker.

Can I use a 60 amp disconnect on a 30 amp circuit?

As long as the circuit is on the proper size breaker, there’s nothing wrong with using a 60 AmpDisconnect on a 30 Amp unit. The standard size for a/c pullouts is 60 Amp.

Can I use a 60 amp disconnect on a 40 amp breaker?

The disconnect rating is the maximum amperage the disconnect is designed to handle. Yes, you can install a 60 Amp disconnect and feed it from a 40 Amp circuit breaker.

Can A breaker be used as A disconnect?



422.31(B), “For permanently connected appliances rated over 300VA, the branch-circuit switch or circuit breaker shall be permitted to serve as the disconnecting means where the switch or circuit breaker is within sight from the appliance or is capable of being locked in the open position.”

Do AC units require A disconnect?

Disconnects are not used for regular control of the circuit, but are employed as a safety precaution. The disconnect must be within sight from the AC unit to prevent someone who doesn’t know the technician is working on the unit from turning the power on causing unit damage or human life concerns.

What height does A disconnect need to be?

6 ft 7 in



The NEC does not mandate a minimum mounting height for panelboards, disconnects, or meter enclosures. But switches, and circuit breakers used as switches, shall be installed so the center of the grip of the operating handle of the switch or circuit breaker, when in its highest position, is not more than 6 ft 7 in.

Can a mini split be plugged into an outlet?

Power requirements



Smaller mini-splits (12,000 Btu or less) can be plugged into a standard 110 volt outlet, but larger units often require a 220 volt outlet. Depending on the size and number of mini-splits you plan to install, modifications to your existing electrical panel and outlets may be necessary.

What size breaker do I need for a 24000 BTU Mini Split?

A 25 amp circuit breaker is the correct size for a 24,000 BTU mini split. Using a 30-amp breaker is fine too.

Do you need 200 amp service for mini split?

Typically, you will need between 15 and 45 amps per mini split. That is about 110 to 120 volts on the low end and 208 to 240 volts on the higher end. Anything that runs on amps must have a circuit to prevent amp overload. This would cause your circuit breaker to trip and your power to go out.

How many amps is a 12000 BTU Mini Split?



Table: How Many Amps Do Window, Portable, Mini-Split Air Conditioners Draw

Air Conditioner Capacity Amperage (Estimate)
How many amps does a 12,000 BTU air conditioner use? 8.70 – 13.04 Amps
How many amps does a 15,000 BTU air conditioner use? 10.87 – 16.30 Amps

How many amps does a mini split pull?

In general, we can say that mini splits draw anywhere between 2.3 amps and 27.3 amps. This is the smallest 6,000 BTU vs the biggest 6-ton mini split.

What electrical is needed for a mini split?

Mini-splits have particular power requirements that are dependent on the model and size. Generally, most systems need 220 volts or higher, but a few of the 9k to 12k systems may only need a 110-volt service. The breaker panel needs to be sized correctly.

Are mini split units 110 or 220?

In the United States, ductless mini split systems come in either 110V or 220V. The voltage will depend on the model type and manufacturer. Typically 9k btu and 12k btu units are 110V. All 18k btu and greater models require 220V.