mini split storage question

[Michael_Grumbach]

can a mini split be stored in a horizontal manner, then placed in an upright position when running?
I was toying with the idea of hanging the mini split horizontally when driving, then letting swing down to a vertical orientation when parked.
This might allow me to place the unit at the front of the bus and not have to cut a vent in the side of the bus.

[Iceni John]

Which part, the condenser or the evaporator? Are you going to put pivots or flex tubing in the copper lines?

John

[Michael_Grumbach]

the part that is outside and does the actual condescending and cooling.

[cadillackid]

there are a couple potential issues.



there is oil in the compressor along with a liquid accumulator.. if you stow your mini split hrizontal you should place it upright for 12 hours before you turn it on to allow the oil and liquid to migrate back or you run the risk of slugging and damaging the compressor..



you also will need a solution for not creating leaks when moving the lines.. the flare fittings on minisplits are notorious for leaking when not being moved around.. you will need flexible linesets at least for part of the length..


the compressor inside the unit is tall and skinny.. the only mounting it has are toe 3 or 4 bolts on rubber grommets at the bottom.. turn it on its side and now that compressor is gpoing to be putting a lot of stress on the rubber grommets since its hanging sideways.. the shipping box on all of mine said not to turn it over to store and transport 'this side up' only..


-Christopher

[Michael_Grumbach]

thank you Christopher, I really appreciate this feedback.
The potential damage to the line might be avoided if I have enough slack, but good to know.
I've read a few things about letting the unit sit for a day to let the lubricant flow to where it needs to be.
These two issues are definitely making this idea not so attractive.
We will see.
Thx.

[cadillackid]

copper refrigeration line even with some slack isnt meant for constant bending and flexing.. it will crack.. but a looped flexible high pressure hydraulic hose will.. regular automotive Barrier hose isnt designed for the pressure of an R410A system.


you would just need to measure the flares to see if the yare standaard hydralic 37 degree or are 45.. and then have sections of flex hose made.



you can read the book to a couple units to see what the acceptable tilt level is for them.. there will be some variance.. and see if you can either permanently mount it in that angle range or stow it in that angle range.. it may be small like 15-20 degrees of titlt or less.. all depends on the unit..

[Michael_Grumbach]

Thank you, Christopher.
Super information!