Circuits, hookups and chargers
Mini-split circuits in the Phoenix Valley
The HVAC installer hangs the unit and sets the condenser. Most will not touch the panel. Shane runs the 240 volt circuit, mounts the disconnect at the condenser and leaves it ready for the installer.
- Circuit
- 240 volts, sized to the nameplate
- Disconnect
- Within sight of the condenser
- Timing
- Ready before the HVAC crew
Signs the mini-split still needs power
- The HVAC quote says electrical by others.
- We converted the garage and the house AC does not reach it.
- The casita is ten degrees hotter than the rest of the house.
- The installer comes next week and nobody has run the power.
What a mini-split circuit involves
A mini-split needs a 240 volt circuit from the panel to a disconnect next to the outdoor condenser. The nameplate lists two numbers that set the job: the minimum circuit ampacity sizes the wire, and the maximum overcurrent protection caps the breaker. Shane sizes both from the nameplate, so send the model or the spec sheet.
The disconnect mounts within sight of the condenser, so a tech can shut the unit off right where they are working. On most ductless systems the indoor head gets its power from the condenser through the interconnect cable, so the head needs no circuit of its own.
What a mini-split circuit costs
Prices on these pages are typical ranges for Phoenix Valley homes. Shane gives you the real number in writing after he sees the job.
Circuit and outdoor disconnect
$650 to $1,400
What moves the price
A mini-split circuit with the outdoor disconnect usually runs $650 to $1,400 depending on the distance from the panel.
The spread is distance: a condenser on the far side of the house or behind a casita means a longer run and often conduit.
What moves the number
- Distance from the panel
- Garage conversions are often close. A casita or a back-yard shop can mean a long run in conduit or a trench.
- Unit size
- A 12,000 BTU unit wants a 15 or 20 amp circuit. Multi-zone systems want 30 to 40 amps and heavier wire.
- Panel capacity
- Adding a mini-split to a full panel can mean a tandem breaker, a subpanel or a panel upgrade. Shane tells you which before quoting.
How the options compare
| Single-zone | Multi-zone | |
|---|---|---|
| Indoor heads | One | Two to five on one condenser |
| Circuits | One per condenser | One, sized to the condenser |
| Typical breaker | Set by the nameplate, often 15 to 20 amps | Set by the nameplate, often 25 to 40 amps |
| Good fit | A garage, a casita or one hot room | Several rooms served by one outdoor unit |
Get a written price for your mini-split circuit.
Send the unit model and where the condenser goes, and Kai calls back the same business day to set a time.
What the price includes
What is included
- Dedicated 240 volt circuit sized to the unit
- Weatherproof disconnect at the condenser
- Whip to the unit if the installer wants it
- Permit and inspection
- Load calculation before the price
What is not included
- The mini-split unit, line set or refrigerant work
- Mounting the condenser or the indoor head
- Condensate drain lines or a condensate pump
How the job goes
- 1
Visit
Within a few days of your call Shane reads the nameplate, checks the panel and plans the route to the condenser pad.
- 2
Permit
One to three business days We file the electrical permit with your city or the county.
- 3
Circuit and disconnect
Before the HVAC install We run the circuit, mount the disconnect and add the service outlet if one is missing.
- 4
Hookup and inspection
On the install day or after The installer finishes the connection at the unit, and the inspector signs off on the electrical.
The number on the quote is the number on the invoice.
Permits, inspection and code
A new 240 volt circuit for a mini-split is permitted work in all five cities we serve and in the county areas outside them.
The permit office and the utility change by city. We cover Ahwatukee, Maricopa, Mesa, Queen Creek and Apache Junction.
What code asks for
- The wire is sized to the minimum circuit ampacity on the nameplate, and the breaker can be no larger than the maximum overcurrent rating.
- A disconnect has to be within sight of the condenser.
- A 120 volt service outlet goes within 25 feet of the equipment, on the same level, with GFCI protection.
What customers say
Quoted word for word.
I would highly recommend this company to anyone. He is an excellent electrician and is wonderful to work with. I would rate him higher than a 5 but that is all they will give me.
The license and the record
- Arizona ROC license
- 326650, class R-11
- BBB rating
- A+, zero complaints
- In business
- Since 2007
- Estimates
- Free, in writing
Questions about mini-split circuits
Anything else, call (602) 879-5489 or send the form below.
Does the HVAC company do the electrical?
Some do, most do not. Many quotes say 'electrical by others' in small type.
Can one circuit feed two mini-splits?
Two single-zone units each need their own circuit. A multi-zone system with one condenser runs on one circuit sized to the condenser.
Do I need a permit for a mini-split circuit?
Yes. A new 240 volt circuit is permitted work everywhere we serve. The inspection is quick and we meet the inspector.
What size breaker does my mini-split need?
The condenser's nameplate decides. It lists a minimum circuit ampacity for the wire and a maximum overcurrent rating for the breaker.
Related work
Jobs that often come up with a mini-split circuit.
20 amps on 12 AWG copper
New circuits and outlets
Dedicated circuits for garages, kitchens, workshops and anything that keeps tripping.
Details
100 to 200 amps
Panel upgrades
100 to 200 amp service changes, new breakers, and panels that have run out of room.
Details
50 or 60 amps at 240 volts
Spa and hot tub hookups
The 240 volt circuit, GFCI disconnect and trenching a spa needs to pass inspection.
Details
Get a free estimate on mini-split circuits.
Send the form and Kai calls or texts back to set a time. Shane looks at the actual job and writes the price. No charge for the visit.
What happens next
- Kai gets back to you the same day.
- Shane comes out and looks at the actual panel, circuit or roofline.
- You get the price and the install date in writing.
Rather talk? Call (602) 879-5489.