🧰 Introduction: Why the DIY Route Appeals to Savvy Homeowners
When it comes to HVAC upgrades, few products have disrupted the market like the MRCOOL DIY Mini Split Easy Pro Series 12,000 BTU Heat Pump. Designed specifically for homeowners who are confident with a wrench and determined to save on installation costs, the Easy Pro system promises a hassle-free, technician-free setup. But is that promise realistic? Can an average DIYer actually install a mini split system without professional help?
The short answer: Yes — with the right tools, planning, and preparation.
This long-form guide walks you through:
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What the DIY process looks like
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What’s included in the MRCOOL Easy Pro kit
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What you’ll still need to supply
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Common pain points and how to overcome them
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Realistic expectations for a weekend install
Whether you’re outfitting a home office, garage apartment, or bonus room, this article helps you decide if the DIY path fits your skill level, budget, and project timeline.
📦 What Comes in the Box: Unboxing the MRCOOL Easy Pro Kit
The MRCOOL Easy Pro system is designed to include nearly everything you need to install it — with a few exceptions (more on that later). Here’s what you’ll find inside:
Indoor Unit
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Wall-mounted air handler
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Mounting plate
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Remote control with batteries
Outdoor Unit
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Pre-charged condenser (R-410A or R-32 depending on version)
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Line set pre-charged with Quick Connect fittings (16 ft standard)
Accessories
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Wall sleeve for line set
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Drain line
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Condensate line
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Wi-Fi smart module (pre-installed or included separately)
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Installation manual
Missing (but required):
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Wall bracket or pad for outdoor unit (not included)
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Tools like hole saw, level, stud finder, torque wrench, etc.
Related reading: MRCOOL DIY Easy Pro Product Page
🛠️ Tools You'll Need: Prep Before You Start
While the MRCOOL Easy Pro eliminates the need for vacuum pumps and refrigerant charging, you’ll still need basic construction and electrical tools.
Basic Tools
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Drill and bits (including hole saw for 3.5" wall pass-through)
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Screwdrivers
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Stud finder
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Level
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Utility knife
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Wire stripper
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Torque wrench (for flare nuts)
Electrical Tools
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Voltage tester
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Conduit bender (if required by code)
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Wire nuts, disconnect box, and outdoor-rated cable (usually 12/2 or 10/2 depending on amperage)
Optional but Helpful
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AC bracket or condenser pad
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Caulk and weather sealant
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Fish tape (for tight wall cavities)
External Reference:
🧱 Step-by-Step Installation Overview
1. Choose the Mounting Location
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Locate studs and make sure wall is clear of obstructions
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Confirm height: 7 ft from the floor is typical
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Ensure good airflow and proximity to a power source
2. Install the Mounting Plate
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Use a level and lag screws to secure the wall plate
3. Drill Wall Hole
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Use a 3.5" hole saw to drill through the wall at a slight downward angle
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Pass the line set, drain hose, and electrical wires through
4. Mount the Indoor Unit
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Connect line set and wiring
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Hang unit on the bracket
5. Mount and Level the Outdoor Unit
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Use an AC pad or bracket
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Ensure unit is level and 12" from any walls
6. Connect the Line Set and Electrical
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Attach pre-charged line set using Quick Connect fittings
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Torque to specification (use included wrench chart)
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Connect power lines to the condenser and breaker panel
7. Test the System
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Turn on power
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Use remote or app to activate cooling and heating cycles
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Confirm no refrigerant leaks
Video Tutorial: Official MRCOOL DIY Installation Walkthrough (YouTube)
⚡ What About the Electrical Work?
This is the step where many homeowners pause. Electrical work can be dangerous and should be done in accordance with local building codes. If you’re not experienced with:
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Running a new circuit from your panel
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Installing a disconnect box
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Connecting high-voltage wiring to HVAC equipment
...then you may want to hire a licensed electrician just for this part.
In many areas, permitting and inspection are required even for homeowner-installed mini splits.
Helpful resources:
🧊 Charging & Refrigerant: What You Don’t Need to Do
One of the most intimidating parts of installing any HVAC system is handling refrigerant. With the Easy Pro system, this is already done for you:
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The outdoor condenser comes pre-charged
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The line set is pre-pressurized with R-410A and uses Quick Connect fittings
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No vacuum pump or gauges required
That said, it’s critical to tighten flare nuts correctly and check for leaks. An improper seal can still release refrigerant — and that’s an expensive, EPA-regulated mistake.
Further reading: EPA Section 608 Requirements for HVAC
⏳ How Long Will It Take?
Most DIYers report needing 6–10 hours for a complete installation spread over 1–2 days. Here’s how a realistic timeline might look:
| Task | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Unboxing and prep | 1 hour |
| Indoor unit mounting | 1.5–2 hours |
| Wall hole and pass-through | 1 hour |
| Outdoor unit placement | 1–1.5 hours |
| Electrical connection | 2–3 hours (or more with panel work) |
| Final checks and testing | 1–2 hours |
Pro Tip: Don’t rush. Weekend projects often turn into two-weekend projects due to unexpected issues like wall obstructions or electrical complexity.
⚠️ Common Pain Points and How to Avoid Them
❌ Wall studs not lining up
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Use a mounting plate that spans 16" centers or add a support board
❌ Hole misalignment
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Drill a small pilot hole first and verify trajectory
❌ Drain line backflow
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Always angle drain downward
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Consider adding a condensate pump for basement installs
❌ Refrigerant fitting leaks
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Use torque wrench, not guesswork
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Spray with soapy water to confirm tight seal
❌ App won’t connect to Wi-Fi
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Ensure 2.4 GHz signal (not 5 GHz)
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Reboot router and use updated MRCOOL app
📱 Smart Features: Making the Most of Your Investment
The MRCOOL Easy Pro is compatible with the MRCOOL SmartHVAC App and integrates with:
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Alexa
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Google Assistant
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Scheduling, geofencing, and energy monitoring
This makes it a top choice for Savvy homeowners interested in automation and monitoring energy use from their phones.
💸 How Much Can You Save with a DIY Install?
Hiring a pro to install a mini split system typically costs $1,200–$3,000 — just for labor. The MRCOOL Easy Pro system can be installed for under $100 in tools and materials if you already have the basics.
Potential savings: $1,500 or more.
Caution: Cutting corners can be costly. If you’re not comfortable with any part of the process, partial DIY (with pro help for electrical or permits) is a smart compromise.
Compare installation costs: HVAC Install Pricing
✅ Final Verdict: Is DIY Right for You?
If you:
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Are confident using power tools
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Can follow detailed instructions
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Have basic electrical knowledge
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Are willing to spend a weekend on setup
...then yes, the MRCOOL Easy Pro is one of the most accessible DIY HVAC systems available today.
If you’re unsure about the electrical or wall drilling portions, consider:
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Hiring out only the electrical part
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Getting a friend to assist
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Watching detailed install videos multiple times before starting
The Easy Pro strikes a rare balance between advanced HVAC performance and DIY simplicity — and that’s what makes it perfect for Savvy homeowners like you.
