Each summer we help thousands of people find the best room air conditioners and heaters for their needs. We sell tons of mini split air conditioners each day on our website, and, on our blog, have previously written about all the benefits of and features to consider when purchasing a mini-split AC of your own. We can see from the chart that 12,000 BTU mini split draws an estimated 4.5 amps. . Understanding the intricacies of your HVAC system, the wiring, and the subtle other nuances that make it work can be complicated and far too much work for some people. Some smaller capacity units only require 110/120 volts. Cooling Capacity . 1 A BTU is equivalent to about 1/100th of a watt. Building-Center.org is a good resource for determining the age of your HVAC and other mechanical equipment. Because this is HVAC equipment, a 14 AWG circuit and 15A breaker is insufficiently sized. Here, we have created a chart to help you better understand based on 1 to 5 heat pump unit draws. In this case, you should use a 50 amp breaker because it is the next step above the minimum ampacity but still below the maximum ampacity. As we mentioned previously, it truly depends on the heat pump size. If you install a circuit breaker with a lower amperage capacity than your air conditioner or heat pump requires, it can be a massive headache. If possible, you should always use this equation because its a lot easier to follow. A mini-split AC system costs $1,500 to $8,000 on average, depending on BTU size in tons, SEER rating, mount type, and number of zones. Are cassettes sufficiently sealed / fire rated such that you can pile 32 of blown in fiberglass insulation directly on top of them without heat or fire issues? When calculating the wire size you need, dont forget to determine the voltage drop and wire capacity. For a standard 3-ton residential air conditioner or heat pump, youll need a 20 amp breaker with 12-gauge wire. You need to run 14/4 from each indoor unit back to the outdoor unit. You can do this calculation manually, or you can use these two calculators for watts and amps: RV AC Wattage Calculator (How Many Watts Does An RV AC Use?) If you are like me and despise doing math on your own to find out what breaker size you will need for your heat pump, the first place you want to check out is the data tag. The breaker panel needs to be sized correctly. Is it ok to run 12/3 solid core wire with a double pole 15 amp from the breaker box to the disconnect, then run 14/3 stranded from the disconnect to outside and inside unit. I would not recommend using 14/3 from the disconnect to the unit. Be the first to rate this post. Still, some manufacturers use letters and numbers instead. There are a wide variety of air conditioners and heat pumps on the market, so it should come as no surprise that there are many variables to consider when choosing a breaker size for your unit. It is not advisable and probably against code to have two units running on the same disconnect. In return, it makes it much easier to determine what size breaker you need. You can also cut the ends of the wire to check it visually: copper wire is golden brown, while wire made from aluminum is dull gray. Most central units run on 220V or the equivalent. For example, a breaker labeled 15 will be a 15 amp breaker or 20 will be 20 amp breaker.Mini Split Wire Gauge. Example: You have a 2,000-watt mini split running on 220V voltage. I am installing a 30k btu lg air mini split with an 18k cieling cassette and a 12k wall unit. 6 amps. When it comes to larger units (for example, multi-zone mini split AC systems), you'll need a 240V circuit to support the unit's current draw of about 30A. Great electric advice, THANKS! These are the max amp ratings that these outlets can provide before their breaker pops. In that case, then yes, the right breaker size amount has been listed on the data plate. Its worth noting in that same regard that not all manufacturers are created equal, and as such, you may have additional steps and information to sort through to find that precious heat pump data tag. How many amps does a 9000 BTU Mini Split draw? Here is how we calculate the amps required to power the unit: I (in Amps) = 5,000 BTU / (10 x 115V) = 4.35 Amps How many watts is a ton of BTU? How Does A Mini Split Air Conditioner WorkIn order to keep yourself and loved ones warm and cozy during the winter and cool over the summer months, most families install a mini split air condition. Subsequently, you can use a 15 amp circuit breaker for most mini-splits, though you may need a 20 amp breaker for some of the larger units. Should I use a 12/3 or 12/2 romex wire from the panel to the disconnect box? Here is how to calculate the amps: 2,000W / 220V = 9.1 Amps. It will be different for every make and model, too, with Daikin mini splits generally needing less than Mitsubishi. How many amp hours does an air conditioner use? Air conditioners and heat pumps are necessary equipment in many homes to make things comfortable. Everything should be completely fine if you use a lower gauge wire for an air conditioner or heat pump. Obviously, the amps they draw differ as well. Air conditioners smaller than 3 tons often use a 15 amp breaker with 14-gauge wire, while larger units can use up to 60 amp breakers and 3-gauge aluminum or 4-gauge copper wire. One should follow name plate data on the side of the outdoor unit itself. You need to make sure you have the right size circuit breaker for mini splits. Depending on whether you are installing a. , you will have a different number of connections. In this part of the label, you get told just how many amps will be pulled when you initially start your compressors motor. 10 review (s) $1,540.00 Description DIY Installation: Easy & Affordable Heating & Cooling Perfect for additions, workshops, garages, sunrooms, or other spaces without ductwork, the 12,000 BTU MRCOOL DIY mini split provides efficient heating and cooling without needing professional installation. Share. This would cause your circuit breaker to trip and your power to go out. Ft. 750-1000 Sq. So would that be the only way the unit didnt turn onsomeone had to have flipped the breaker? Depending on the distance from the panel to the unit you would want to use 10/2. While initiallItspearing to be a string of numbers, this sequence provides a few essential bits of information. Ft. 500-750 Sq. Let us say you have a 2-ton heat pump at home. Choosing the correct wire gauge for the power going to your air conditioner or heat pump is crucial. The vast majority of mini splits require 208/240 volts. ($0.05 $0.22/h), How Much Does 1000 Watts Cost Per Hour? An ammeter is a measuring instrument used to measure the current in a circuit. That is about 110 to 120 volts on the low end and 208 to 240 volts on the higher end. In short, having a high energy-efficiency air conditioner with a high EER rating pays off. How many amps does a 2 ton mini split use? Most brands require 14/4. What Size Wire Is Needed For 200Amp Electrical Service Home Inspection Insider, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4dkY0zs7sBQ, Reading the Rating Plates of an Air Conditioner! It was difficult to find and get the required 14-3 cable. Few times in life are the answers given to us quickly. When looking at the label itself, only about nine of those labels may be of any use, assuming you are not a certified electrician anyway. Hello. That information also provides you with the maximum overcurrent protection or MOP rating. We know that we are running it for 8 hours. It will tell you what size breaker is required. When do I use a 10/2 or 10/3 for mini splits? However, we can estimate the approximate amperage based on the power (in watts) and the voltage of the unit. The whip must be wired into the shutoff box and then to the unit as we will talk about next. No votes so far! Peak loads could lead to even higher wattages. Watts and voltage are equivalent, so a 2,000-watt mini split using a 220V voltage would use 9.1 Amps. Size, Refrigerant, Pressure, Electrical (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4dkY0zs7sBQ), 200 Amp Wire Size: Residential Service Guide, Bad GFCI Outlet: 13 Things You Should Know, Microwave Breaker Size: Wire & Outlet for Microwave Ovens, 40 Amp Wire Size: Wire & Breaker Size Guide, 30 Amp Wire Size: Wire & Breaker Size Guide, a 2.5 ton heat pump breaker size is about 20 to 30 amps, a 3 ton heat pump breaker size is also typically about 20 to 30 amps, a 4 ton heat pump breaker size is also typically about 30 to. Electric heat provided from a non heat pump system will draw anywhere from 40 to 80 amps of current depending on the size of the system. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); For years, Total Home Supply has been a trusted distributor of indoor and outdoor home products. 3 Ton Quad-Zone Mini Split AC - Heat Pump: With a 36000 BTU total Cooling-Heating Capacity, this ductless split system can cool and heat 4 separate 350 sq.3 TON Quad-Zone AC - Heat Pump (9k x 4) how many watts and amps does a 12000btu mini-spit AC use? However, things should be fine if your wiring is the correct gauge to handle the power and your unit has built-in overcurrent protection. Mini-split wires are used to connect the outdoor compressor unit with the indoor evaporator unit, delivering electricity and control signals. Air conditioners do not have a reversing valve. Luckily, you can find this out pretty quickly with all of the above information and by looking at a label on your compressor unit. It also calls for 12-3 cables from the outdoor condenser to each unit. Now the unit will power on and shut down in under a minute. 7. How Much Power Does a 24,000 BTU Air Conditioner Use? 21 SEER: 24000 BTU Inverter Mini Split Heat Pump: Enjoy full season comfort during the summer or winter with this 24,000 BTU Inverter Mini Split with 27,000 BTU Heat Pump.WHAT IS DC INVERTER? If not can the blower motor be switched with a 115V blower motor? Voltage drop occurs across the length the electrical current has to travel. The distance from the panel to the outside disconnect box is approximately 70 ft the specs for the unit says 20 Amps max , 220 Volts. Using a lower gauge wire over a higher one is better because it can handle more current than necessary and keeps things running smoothly. Since tags provide a lot of information, you may be wondering if the breaker size is on it in the first place. To meet the code, you must have a shut-off box at the location of the unit. A ductless mini-split air conditioning system costs $2,000 to $14,500 with an average of $3,000 for a 12,000 BTUs system. For example, the same mini split system may run at 2,050 watts for peak cooling and 2,390 watts for peak heating. Each individual indoor vent will need 15-45 amps to function correctly, so youre looking at roughly 200 amps for a 4-zone mini split. The best thing to do is read the specifications and instructions for your mini split, as this will show the maximum circuit breaker amperage. Energy Star 9000 BTU Ductless AC Heat Pump. The wire size and breaker for heat pumps and air conditioners (AC) vary based on the tonnage. How to Market Your Business with Webinars. How much does a mini split air conditioner cost? Regardless, the MCA is the required Minimum Circuit Ampacity, meaning your circuit needs to be sized appropriately for at least that amperage. At 240 volts divide the power. The ground wire is essential for safe operation, preventing damage to the air conditioner and protecting your family, which is why going with 14/4 is always better than 14/3. Given that information, the main power panel has two separate breakers for the air handler and the other one for the heat pump condenser. Most mini splits only require power to the outdoor unit. If my split system is 220 v how do I connect it to my 110 V supply? My Mini Split calls for 20 amps, 220 volts. Mini split air conditioners are one of the most effective solutions, but even the best mini splits need to be set up correctly to work. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. We participate in several affiliate programs including the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an advertising program in which we earn fees by linking to Amazon and affiliated sites. 3 Ton Quad-Zone Mini Split AC Heat Pump: With a 36000 BTU total Cooling-Heating Capacity, this ductless split system can cool and heat 4 separate 350 sq.3 TON Quad-Zone AC Heat Pump (9k x 4). This will impact the amps needed for it to operate. 5 amps, and a 36,000 BTU model typically requires up to 34. But my question is, what wire do I need to run from the main panel to the outdoor box since Im installing 2 multi split systems? is there a transformer in the unit? Any negatives of going this route vs 240? A double-pole breaker has two hot wires with one neutral wire. Step 2 - Mini-Split Wiring: It can get confusing if youre not careful because lower gauge wire can handle more power than higher gauge wire. Using the calculators and the charts, you will likely be able to estimate what amount of amps does your mini split operates on. The watt (W) is a unit of power. You must follow the manufacturers specific instructions. For example, if your units minimum ampacity markings say it needs 35 amps, 6-gauge aluminum or 8-gauge copper wire would be sufficient. Wire gauges are measured in diameter based on the American Wire Gauge (AWG) chart. From figuring out the difference between 10/2 or 10/3 wires to the nitty-gritty of the wiring and installation of your mini split, we hope to have resolved your electrical wiring concerns. You could use two single zones instead. A split heat pump or air conditioner has two separate electrical circuits, one for the outdoor unit (condenser) and the indoor unit (air handler or furnace). A double pole breaker can handle two 120V circuits, but you use them more often for a single 220V circuit. My unit upstairs has been working fine and then the next day it wouldnt turn on. It is recommended to use 14 gauge stranded wire for installation. Depending on code in your area, you should not need to run the wire through conduit unless this is a commercial installation. However, you may wonder what a single and dual-zone is in the first place. You typically measure wire gauge according to the American Wire Gauge, often abbreviated to AWG. When mounting into a hard ceiling do you typically mount to the joists or suspend from the roof rafters? We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. How many amps does a 12000 BTU heater require? Some manufacturers include this for both US and Canada. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'homeinspectioninsider_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_3',835,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-homeinspectioninsider_com-medrectangle-3-0'); Depending on the size wire, youll need to find the breakers size, which gives you the specific rating. We use it to cool our hours for 8 hours. Typically, you will need between 15 and 45 amps per mini split. Enter a Melbet promo code and get a generous bonus, An Insight into Coupons and a Secret Bonus, Organic Hacks to Tweak Audio Recording for Videos Production, Bring Back Life to Your Graphic Images- Used Best Graphic Design Software, New Google Update and Future of Interstitial Ads. For this, you need to use the following equation: BTUs = Energy Efficiency Rating x Watts For mobile applications like RVs and boats, power receptacles have ratings in amps, 50Amp, 30Amp, 20Amp. If you have your average 240 volts 2 kW air handler, you will need a 30 amp breaker and a #10 electrical wire. One watt is equal . With all electricals, its important to have safeguards in place to prevent your wires from overheating and causing a fire. Founded by Hubert Miles, Certified Master Inspector. This makes it essential that you have the right power going to the device. Whether or Not it is Factory Charged Its not all that easy to figure out exactly how many amps does a mini split use. On average an air conditioner uses this much Amps: A 5,000 BTU AC unit uses: 3.62 to 5.43 Amps; An 8,000 BTU AC unit uses: 5.80 to 8.70 Amps; to 10.87 Amp; A 12,000 BTU AC unit uses: 8.70 . The wire size is essential because an overload can occur if it is not sized appropriately. You can also peer inside the condenser to see if the reversing valve exists. From here, you can follow this equation to determine the amps: Remember, the voltage will generally be 115V for smaller units, or 220V for larger ones. This is what I got to install my system from LG. Do most installs of 4 indoor units draw their power off the outside unit (vs. making a separate electric run to the main breaker box. This Friedrich multi-zone unit has connections for 4 units, all of which are numbered for easy cross-referencing to the indoor unit. Larger mini-split systems and central air conditioners or heat pumps utilize much larger breakers, so make sure to use an appropriately smaller wire gauge. What gauge wire do I need for a mini split? Locked Rotor Amperage, or LRA for Short, 6. Is 20 to much ? (8 Differences), Mr Cool DIY 9k, 12k, 18k, 24k, 36k Breaker Sizes, How Many Mini Splits Do You Need? Pictured is 14 gauge solid wire which will work, but should only be used if stranded wire is unavailable. How many amps does a 3 ton mini split use? Mini-split ACs have an outdoor compressor unit and an indoor evaporator unit, with refrigerant and electrical lines running between the two. This offers a couple of enormous benefits for people who choose ductless heat pumps over gas heating. Often the US and Canada maximum breaker sizes are the same. Unless you are an advanced DIYer with extensive experience in electrical work, we strongly advise you to hire a professional to get the job done. All Rights Reserved. (If understood correctly 12/2 is the one because you do not use the neutral wire) -thanks. For example, suppose that a units minimum ampacity is 42 amps and its maximum is 60 amps. Depending on the BTU capacity amp requirements can range from 15 to 45 amps. Ductless mini splits are one of the most popular AC choices for homeowners and businesses alike. Run the wire inside. You should use an electrical whip designed to go from the disconnect to the unit. Most mini splits need a 14-gauge wire with a dedicated ground between the indoor and outdoor units. When theres a surge of electricity, they literally break the circuit and switch the devices off.If you have a fuse, you need to replace it, which can be annoying, but if you have a circuit breaker, you just need to flip the fuse box. How Many BTUs Do I Need? These are measured in amps and indicate the maximum electric current surge that can be accommodated before they need to break the circuit and shut the device down. The minimum ampacity helps determine the minimum gauge wire you need to use. How many amps does it take to run a mini split? While it might be difficult to see through the other wiring in the unit, here we have included a picture of the main power connections to a Friedrich Mini Split Unit. Using a higher amp breaker than the recommended size can cause serious problems. 5 How many square feet does a 1 ton mini split cool? Depending on whether you are installing a single zone or a multi-zone unit, you will have a different number of connections. You would need one 10/2 wire, an independent breaker, and a disconnect box for each outdoor unit. He says 220 and 230 are the same. This would cause your circuit breaker to trip and your power to go out. It runs on 3,910 watts on 230V and, Mr Cool DIY 12k mini split has a cooling capacity of 12,000 BTU (1-ton unit). Table: How Many Amps Do Window, Portable, Mini-Split Air Conditioners Draw. Can the typical indoor cassette mount flush within a 16 (and/or 20) OC joist hard ceiling? If the external unit calls for 40 amps and you run 14/2 wire from that outdoor unit to power the 4 indoor units, does the outdoor unit have its own internal breaker or current limiter built in, so in the event any of the 4 internal units start to fail, power to them is rapidly cut off as the draw on that line approaches 15 amps (vs the much more beefy 40 fed to outdoor unit)? The electric current is measured in amps. The 24kBTU unit has an MCA of 15, so you'd need a circuit capable of supplying at least 15A. Generally, a mini split that has a BTU rating of 36000 typically requires around 30 amps when working with a 220-volt power and around 15 amps when working . Related Article What To Do If AC Keeps Tripping The Breaker. . Dont forget that in AWG, smaller numbers mean thicker wires. If you have an amplfier using 1600W of power on a 120v circuit, you can use the equation Current (Amps) = Power (Watts) Voltage to calculate that the draw of the amplifier is 1600 / 120 = 13.3 amps. Then, reattach the faceplate and insert the on/off switch. 25 Amps 16 SEER: 24000 BTU Inverter Mini Split - Heat Pump: Enjoy full season comfort during the summer or winter with this 24,000 BTU Inverter Mini Split with 27,000 BTU Heat Pump.WHAT IS DC INVERTER? Smaller mini-splits with only nine to 12k BTUs may need 110-volt service, while most of the larger . 15 amps 120 volts = 1800 watts; 20 amps 120 volts = 2400 watts Fortunately, the label includes the maximum breaker size (or it may say max fuse size). In any case, I pulled my switch out and turned it upside down and my unit works now and my switch now looks like the downstairs switch. Always reference the instruction manual before attempting any electrical connections. Breakers trip at around 125% of the amperage, so why is wire size such a big deal? We are sorry that this post was not useful for you! Every unit will list its amp draw and the wire choice will vary based on that. Both the wire and breaker size fall within the parameters outlined above. The model number allows us to glean the cooling capacity of this particular heat pump by using two specific numbers located in the middle of this string of numbers. Equally important as choosing the correct breaker for your air conditioner or heat pump is choosing the correct wire gauge. Mini splits are really useful pieces of equipment that, if set up correctly, will make your home a much nicer place to live in. Im installing 2 multi split system in my house. Do you need 200 amp service for a mini split? 14/3 stranded is hard to fine and expensive. There are many variables to consider when choosing a breaker and wiring an air conditioner (AC) in your home. This must be rated for the wire size as well. You can install a 230v breaker in your house breaker panel. If youre ever unsure, avoid caution and use a larger wire gauge than you think you need to be on the safe side. How Much Does 500 Watts Cost Per Hour? (1000-3000+ Sq Ft Homes), Thermostat Says Heat On But No Heat? Thanks. Here, we offer a step-by-step guide to everything you need to know about the electrical specifications for installing ductless mini splits. On the other hand, a heat pump will draw much less, somewhere between 8 and 24 amps depending on the system size. . Here is are 3 ways how you can figure out how many amps does your mini split use (we will use the 3rd method for Mini Split Amps Calculator and chart below): Examples of mini splits and their amps, wattages, and EER ratings (do notice that the average EER rating is about 12): To adequately answer how many amps does this or that mini split draw, can use a 12 EER rating as the guideline. A ductless mini-split installation costs $3,000 to $10,000 on average. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. It may even be written on the unit itself. For example, suppose you have a relatively large heat pump with 24,000 BTU, yet your wire is only a 12 gauge. As you can see from the table above, a 12,000 BTU air conditioner can use 1500W (8 EER rating) or 1000W (12 EER rating). The 2 Ton or 24000 BTU Air conditioners use 15 Amps to work. ), How To Make A DIY Air Purifier (5 Easy Steps! 5. If you have a 1000W electrical appliance connected to a 240V circuit, it will be drawing 4.17 amps. Hi, I am installing a Split Duct unit in my house can I install the outdoor unit on the exterior wall above the height of the indoor unit ? The above table is by no means a definitive guide to which wire gauge you should use, but it is a good rule of thumb. Just check the table and you will see that a 3-ton mini split uses an estimated 13.6 amps. 4 amps, a 24,000 BTU model requires 25. Is it okay to use a mini-split ceiling cassette with a 115V condenser? However, the numbers do remain relatively the same. How Do You Determine The Size Of Circuit Breaker For Mini Splits Using Amps? Central air conditioners and heat pumps are some of the largest units that youll find in a residential home. Furthermore, we have provided tonnage table charts below if you are a visual person and need a better reference. It is also critical to make sure that each indoor unit on a multi-zone system is wired to the same input that its line set is connected to. In other words, the wire is slightly larger than the electrical current rating. It runs on 2,090 watts on 230V and. It depends on your specific unit.