Split-type air conditioner question

[gdgross]

I stopped by an A/C place to get an estimate on installing a split-type a/c in my small studio. $2500, waaaay beyond my budget. So here's the question: Is the split A/C something I can install later, after I finish the ceiling? This way I can determine if I really need it first. As I understand it, there are only a few tubes & wires that run between the inside unit and the compressor outside. Here's a side view of my ceiling just for reference.

[davidki]

To do a good job, I'd have the guy come out and rough in the installation and take a look at where the vent pipes return and supply will go, and make sure he can get access to the area, the major cost is probably the equiptment, but to do it latter.. what a pain..

[knightfly]

You're right, it's only a couple of tubes and couple of wires; you can do it after the fact, as long as you totally caulk both sides well - I think (not sure, haven't worked with these yet) you'd still get some leakage traveling along the tubes between the inside air handler and the outside condenser unit though -

Plus, you are aware that the splits offer no fresh air, right? Is there another means of ventilation, or are you recording "oxygen free music" on your "oxygen free wiring" ?

Slightly different approach; have you seen this?

http://www.johnlsayers.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=644

Might be another way to go... Steve