Mini splits have clearance requirements. The indoor and outdoor units of a mini split must be installed at a location where there is sufficient space for the air to move around. Else, the performance of the mini split may drop and the warranty may even be avoided.
Generally, the indoor unit of a mini split should be installed at a height of about 7-8 ft above the floor with a minimum clearance of 3 inches from the ceiling. Whereas the back of the outdoor unit should have a clearance of 4 inches from the wall.
Within the clearance requirements, there are several locations where mini splits are typically installed at. Each of these locations has its pros and cons with regard to the installation, maintenance and aesthetic of the mini split.
I’ve dealt with hundreds of mini split installations throughout my career. Hence, I summarized some of the best locations to install the mini split indoor and outdoor units to help you make a better decision.
Mini Split Clearance Requirements
Every mini split has clearance requirements. It is known to leave a sufficient gap between the indoor unit and the ceiling for the return air, and also the outdoor unit needs to be away from the wall to avoid obstructing the airflow.
In addition, the side, bottom and front of a mini split also need to have clearance to ensure optimal performance, and ease of installation and maintenance.
Although some mini splits require more clearance than others, the clearance needed for a typical ductless (wall-mounted) mini split is generally as the below diagram:
Each and every mini split has its own clearance requirements. The clearance is required by the manufacturer and it is usually found in the installation manual of your specific mini split.
Good-quality mini splits often come with detailed installation and operation (user) manuals. To get the most out of the mini split system, check out: The 4 Best Mini Splits in 2023 (New Models).
The indoor unit of a mini split generally requires a clearance of about 3 to 8 inches from the ceiling. Across all mini split models and brands, the minimum space between the indoor unit and the ceiling is 3 inches. Placing the indoor unit 8 inches or more below the ceiling yields the best performance.
Meanwhile, the height of the indoor unit should be at least 6 ft from the floor. Between the clearance from the ceiling and the height from the floor, prioritize the clearance from the ceiling as it is crucial for the return air and ultimately the performance of the mini split.
Learn more about Why Air Conditioners are Placed at a Height Near Ceiling.
Whenever possible, give more space between the indoor unit and the ceiling to ease the maintenance (cleaning) work. It is best if the top part of the indoor unit is visible and that’s about 8 inches from the ceiling.
As for the side of the mini split indoor unit, it is recommended to have at least 2 inches of space so that the cover can be easily removed for installation and maintenance purposes.
Check if the indoor unit requires a condensate pump to assist the drain. If so, make sure to leave sufficient space below (or beside) the unit for the drain pump. Read the article: Do Mini Splits Need a Condensate Pump.
Different types of mini split indoor units have different clearance requirements. Learn about other types of mini split indoor units: 5 Types of Mini Split Indoor Units.
The outdoor unit (condenser) of a mini split requires a minimum distance of 4 inches from the wall. The minimum space needed to carry out the service and maintenance work is 14 inches on the side of the piping and wiring connections.
However, based on my experiences, a clearance of about 2 to 3 ft on the piping and wiring side of the outdoor unit is best for service access.
If the front of the outdoor unit has a wall, it needs to be at least 14 inches away from the outdoor unit in order not to obstruct the discharge air. Also, make sure to have a minimum clearance of 4 inches above the outdoor unit.
The clearance requirements for the mini split outdoor unit require more explanation as it is also depending on the object surrounding the outdoor unit.
For example, if the outdoor unit is installed near the exterior wall of a house, then the only clearance needed is between the wall and the outdoor unit which is about 4 inches. But, if there is a wall in front of the outdoor unit, then the space between the wall and the outdoor unit must also be taken into account.
Another instance where you need to be extra cautious is when you have more than one outdoor unit. In the case where you need to put the outdoor units back-to-back, make sure you leave enough space at the back of each outdoor unit. Also, if both of the outdoor units are facing each other, more space is required between them to ensure hot air short cycle does not happen.
If several outdoor units are required to be installed side-by-side, make sure the clearance for installation and maintenance is considered. Do not put them close to each other.
To learn more about the installation and maintenance of mini splits, check out the below articles:
Nonetheless, not all mini splits have the same clearance requirements. Different mini splits have different clearance requirements. Those that have a greater airflow (capacity) may require more clearance.
So, it is important to place your mini split according to the manufacturer’s requirements. Otherwise, your warranty can be avoided. Refer to the installation manual for the clearance requirements of your particular mini split.
Mini Split Indoor/Outdoor Maximum Distance
Mini splits are pre-charged with a certain amount of refrigerant. Usually, the pre-charged amount is equivalent to 25 ft of refrigerant pipe length. If the refrigerant pipe length exceeds 25 ft, an additional refrigerant charge is needed. See How to Charge a Mini Split.
Meanwhile, every mini split has a maximum refrigerant pipe length. Typically, the maximum refrigerant pipe length between the indoor and outdoor units of a mini split is 65-100 ft and the height difference between the indoor and outdoor units is 50-80 ft, depending on the model and capacity.
The mini split may not work if the pipe length exceeded the maximum limit.
So, without additional refrigerant charge, the maximum distance of a mini split indoor unit from its outdoor unit is approximately 15 ft, assuming the indoor unit is installed at 8 ft above the outdoor unit and 2 ft for spare (buffer). And, if the outdoor unit is installed on the roof, the maximum distance (height) of the indoor unit is about 3 floors below the outdoor unit, assuming the floor-to-floor height is 14 ft.
Again, the maximum refrigerant pipe length and height difference for every mini split is different. Refer to the installation manual of your particular mini split for the limitations.
Where to Put Mini Split Indoor/Outdoor Unit
Apart from the clearance requirements, refrigerant pipe length and height difference, there are a few more considerations with regard to the location of the mini split indoor and outdoor units.
First, the outdoor unit should be leveled. Second, there must not be any plant in front or near the outdoor unit such that the air circulation can be obstructed and third, the outdoor unit should not be located where noise can be an issue. For instance, too near a bedroom or study room.
Whenever possible, it is best to put the mini split outdoor unit in a shady area, away from direct sunlight. Though minimal, it can help on improving the energy efficiency.
If a strong wind is expected to blow into the air discharge side of the outdoor unit from the front, there is a risk that the fan may be damaged. In this case, change the orientation or location of the outdoor unit.
For seaside applications, salty seawater (wind) can erode and damage the outdoor unit. Use either the building as shield or install a windbreak to protect the outdoor unit.
For standard application, raise the outdoor unit by an inch or two to avoid water from ponding and contacting the outdoor unit for a prolonged period of time. For cold climate applications, raise the outdoor unit by 4 inches or more using a plinth or bracket to ensure snow does not pile up on the outdoor unit.
The drain pan inside the indoor unit of a mini split has sufficient gradient for the condensate water to flow properly. So, the indoor unit should be leveled.
Next, the indoor unit should not be installed near a heat source (eg: microwave, cooking stove) as condensation may occur on the surface of the indoor unit and the oil (steam) may clog the drain pipe. See How to Install Air Conditioner in Kitchen.
Additionally, the indoor unit should not be positioned such that it blows cold air directly onto the occupants. Also, avoid putting the indoor unit opposite the door as cold air may escape the room, leading to inefficient cooling.
Best Location for Mini Split Outdoor Unit (Photos)
With all the above mini split outdoor unit limitations and requirements, here are some of the best locations to install the mini split outdoor unit. For each location, I’ll explain the pros and cons, and attach a few photos for your reference.
# 1 – On the Ground
Pros
- Easy installation and maintenance
Cons
- Prone to airflow obstruction
- A concrete plinth is needed
The most common location for the mini split outdoor unit is on a solid base (concrete plinth) or a standing bracket on the ground. This location is easy for installation and maintenance. However, if you have tight space, this location requires you to be more careful with the clearance requirements. In addition, you also need to cast a concrete plinth which is additional work.
If you’re in a cold climate, make sure to raise the outdoor unit by at least 4 inches. In addition, make sure the drain water does not flow to walkways as it can freeze and become slippery. See Do Mini Splits Need a Drain Line for Condensate Water.
#2 – On the Wall (Low Level)
Pros
- More protection
- Prevent snow and water damage
Cons
- Need an additional wall bracket
Another common way to put the outdoor unit is by hanging it on the wall at about 1 ft above the ground. This is good for avoiding snow from covering up the outdoor unit and keeping the outdoor unit away from contact with water for a prolonged period of time. However, an additional wall bracket is required.
#3 – On the Wall (High Level)
Pros
- Best for airflow and efficiency
Cons
- Difficult installation and maintenance
- Not good looking
The ideal location (technically) to put the mini split outdoor unit is on a high-level wall bracket. This is best for airflow and efficiency. It also doesn’t occupy space on the ground. However, it may not be good looking, and the installation and maintenance are more difficult.
#4 – On the Roof
Pros
- Save space
Cons
- Difficult installation and maintenance
- Not good looking
One of the uncommon places to put the mini split outdoor unit is on the roof. This location can be very challenging for residential houses due to the difficulty of installation and maintenance. However, if you have a flat roof and there is built-in access to the flat roof, it is an excellent location.
Many people ask me if the mini split outdoor unit (condenser) can be installed in the attic. Well, it can be done but not recommended. See the complete guide: Can Mini Split Condenser Be Installed in Attic.
Best Location for Mini Split Indoor Unit (Photos)
With all the above mini split indoor unit limitations and requirements, here are some of the best locations to install the mini split indoor unit. Similarly, I’ll explain the pros and cons for each location, and attach a few photos for your reference.
#1 – Above the Bed (Bedroom)
Pros
- Center of the room (good air distribution)
- Doesn’t blow air directly onto the body
- Likely on the exterior wall (easy piping)
Cons
- Problematic if water dripping
- Maintenance issue (can move the bed though)
One of the most common locations to install the mini split indoor unit is about 7-8 ft directly above the bed. It is likely at the center of the room which is good for air distribution. Besides, the mini split will not blow cold air onto your body which is good for your long-term well-being. Maintenance is more difficult though but, you can always move the bed.
More details on mini split placement in the bedroom: Best Place to Install Split AC in Bedroom (highly recommended).
#2 – Near the Exterior Wall
Pros
- Good for interior wall
- Hiding the lineset
Cons
- Poor air distribution
- May get hot spots in the room
Putting the mini split indoor unit near the exterior wall (at the side of the room) is a way to hide the lineset. It is good for interior walls as you won’t have a visible lineset running on the wall. However, this location is bad for air circulation and potentially causes the other end of the room not getting the air (hot spots).
To hide the lineset, it is not necessary to put the indoor unit on the side of the wall. Instead, you can hide the lineset inside the wall. See how it can be done: Can You Run Mini Split Refrigerant Lines in Walls.
#3 – Above the Window
Pros
- On the exterior wall – Minimal piping
- More places to choose
Cons
- Limited clearance
- Difficult maintenance (if tight space)
Another popular location to install the mini split indoor unit is above the window. This location allows you to have minimal piping as the outdoor unit is likely right behind the same wall. However, if the space above the window is limited, you may not get sufficient clearance and maintenance can be difficult.
#4 – Above the Door
Pros
- Good for interior wall
- Lineset can go behind the wall
- For small rooms
Cons
- Limited clearance
- Difficult maintenance (if tight space)
- Cold air likely blow toward the bed
Another common location to install the mini split indoor unit is above the door. This is usually the only space available in small rooms. Similarly, the space above the door can be very tight and thus, getting the required clearance may be a problem.
#5 – Beside the Sofa (Living Room)
Pros
- On the exterior wall
- Doesn’t blow to the sofa directly
- Good for living room
Cons
- Likely above the window
- Same cons as above the window
In the living room, a good location to put the mini split indoor unit is on the side of the sofa. This location likely won’t cause the cold air to blow directly on the occupants sitting on the sofa which can lead to feeling too cold and having a dry lip.
More details about mini split placement in the living room: Air Conditioner Position in Living Room (important for large living rooms).
#6 – Above the TV
Pros
- Better aesthetic
- On the exterior wall
Cons
- Bad for health (cold air blow onto the body)
- Risk of electrical hazard (water leakage)
A very common location for the mini split indoor unit is directly above the TV. This location is popular because it blows cold air directly onto the sofa which some people thought it is nice. However, it is not good for your long-term health and you risk damaging the TV if the drain pipe is clogged.
Where You Should NOT Install a Mini Split
I’ve seen too many improper mini split installations. Most of them are mild cases that are causing the owner to pay more for the energy usage than they realize.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best place to put the mini split indoor unit is probably directly above the bed in the bedroom and beside the sofa in the living room. Whenever possible, try not to put the indoor unit above the window and door unless there is a lot of space.
For the outdoor unit, the best way is to sit it on a wall bracket and hang the bracket on the wall at a level so that it is well-protected and well-ventilated. The surrounding of the outdoor unit should be clear of obstruction for best efficiency and performance.
Other locations not mentioned above are also possible as long as the minimum clearance required by the manufacturer is met. That said, the locations I just shown above should be avoided at all-cost.
More Resources
In case you missed out, I’ve a detailed guide for mini split placement in the bedroom, living and kitchen, links to the individual article as follows: