Over the past week we have been asymptotically approaching completion of the Conex boxes. We left off last week finishing up painting and installing fittings in the workshop container.
The next item was to install a 110VAC, 9,000 BTU Mini-Split system shown HERE. It’s both and air-conditioner and heat pump, so it should be able to provide heat so long as the exterior temperature is greater than -5 degrees (F). I made the decision to put the compressor above the container, sheltered from the weather.
The unit is designed for “professional installation” but after looking up various YouTube clips I didn’t see anything that I couldn’t handle. The installation instructions were very sketchy, intended for HVAC technicians so the YouTube clips (like THIS) were very helpful.
I’ve got the storage container set at 64 deg F. A side benefit is that the Mini-Split is very, very quiet. The vents at the bottom are turned down indicating that the system is blowing warm air out, but I literally cannot hear anything. I have to stick my hand below it to feel that air coming out. The pipe running down out of the unit is a condensation drain line that runs outside of the container.
In the workshop container I’ll be locating the inside unit opposite the door in the middle of the container to avoid the vent fan installed on the end. I can also drill the hole for the hose line just above the unit, avoiding the offset needed to avoid drilling through the reinforced end caps.
I will be installing the pegboard in 2’x4′ sections below the wall lighting that will provide hanging storage for tools & etc. Once the Mini-Splits are installed, the next major project will be installing the solar power system, but I don’t expect that to start before the new year.