Replacement of air-conditioners myself

[thebears]

Has anyone purchased and fitted an air-conditioner (normal split system) and installed the piping, then got the engineer to gas it etc? Any pitfalls? What tools are needed to cut and attach the piping? Thanks

[Nereus]

Has anyone purchased and fitted an air-conditioner (normal split system) and installed the piping, then got the engineer to gas it etc? Any pitfalls? What tools are needed to cut and attach the piping? Thanks

Sorry, if you have to ask that, then better you do not do it! Shop around and you will find somebody that includes installation.

Split systems usually come with the condenser half pre-charged with liquid under pressure, so open the wrong valve and you lose it. For the piping you need a minimum of a bending tool and a flaring tool. Then, depending on the house structure, an electric drill with masonry bits.

[Dannie Boy]

I agree with Nereus about getting them installed by somebody who does it for a living - a guy who has been recommended on this forum many times - Mr Too (0813537587) will do you a good job and won’t charge a fortune.

[laphanphon]

Ditto......installation is always free. You don't want a leak in the system.

If charging for installation, you're being scammed. Wouldn't buy from a vendor who doesn't supply. The cost of tools and gauges to do a proper job, far outweigh the savings of DIY vs the built in price for installation.