Garage Construction Project

HVAC Wholesale Buying Guide

14 min read

HVAC Wholesale Buying Guide - Save $1,500-3,000 on Mini-Split System

Project: Garage HVAC - Mitsubishi multi-zone mini-split system Potential Savings: $1,500-3,000 (30-50% off retail installed pricing) Strategy: Buy equipment wholesale online, hire licensed contractor for labor-only installation

Related: HVAC Strategy - Technical specifications and system design

💰 THE WHOLESALE OPPORTUNITY

Why HVAC Has Massive Retail Markup

Retail HVAC Pricing Chain:

  1. Manufacturer → Distributor: $2,000
  2. Distributor → HVAC Contractor: $2,500
  3. HVAC Contractor → You: $5,000 (100% markup)
  4. Installation labor: +$2,500
  5. Total you pay: $7,500

Wholesale Direct Pricing:

  1. Online Wholesaler → You: $3,000 (distributor pricing)
  2. Labor-only contractor: +$2,500
  3. Total you pay: $5,500
  4. You save: $2,000 (27%)

Why This Works

  • HVAC contractors make money two ways: Equipment markup + labor
  • Labor-only removes equipment markup but keeps labor profit
  • Many contractors will do labor-only installs (competition for work)
  • You get: Same equipment, same installation, 30-50% less cost

🎯 YOUR SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS

Based on HVAC Strategy:

Garage Specs

  • Size: 24’ × 40’ main floor (960 sq ft)
  • Ceiling: 10 ft
  • Volume: 9,600 cu ft
  • Usage: Workshop, automotive, metalworking
  • Cooling Priority: Summer heat from metal roof
  • Heating: Supplemental to radiant floor

Loft Apartment Specs

  • Size: Varies (upper level)
  • Usage: Living/office space
  • Needs: Year-round heating and cooling

System Requirements

  • Type: Multi-zone mini-split heat pump
  • Brand Preference: Mitsubishi (Hyper-Heat for cold climate)
  • Zones: 2-3 zones (garage + loft, possibly split loft)
  • Outdoor Unit: MXZ series (multi-zone capable)
  • Indoor Units:
    • Garage: Ceiling cassette or short-ducted (cooling focused)
    • Loft: Wall-mounted or ducted (heating/cooling)

📐 STEP 1: SIZE YOUR SYSTEM (Manual J Calculation)

CRITICAL: You must perform a Manual J load calculation to size equipment correctly.

Why Manual J Matters

  • ❌ Oversized: Costs more, short-cycles, poor humidity control, wastes energy
  • ❌ Undersized: Can’t maintain temperature, runs constantly, early failure
  • ✅ Correctly sized: Optimal efficiency, comfort, lifespan

Free Manual J Calculators

Recommended Tools:

  1. CoolCalc Manual J (coolcalc.com)

    • Free account with unlimited calculations
    • ACCA-approved reports (pay per report if needed for contractor)
    • Most comprehensive free option

  2. ServiceTitan HVAC Load Calculator (servicetitan.com/tools/hvac-load-calculator)

    • Simple, fast, free
    • Good for initial estimate

  3. LoadCalc.net

    • Free whole-house block load calculator
    • Based on Manual J methodology

  4. FieldVibe Manual J Calculator (fieldvibe.com)

    • Quick online tool
    • Good for rough estimates

Information You’ll Need for Manual J

Building Details:

  • Square footage (garage: 960 sq ft, loft: measure)
  • Ceiling height (garage: 10 ft)
  • Number and size of windows (measure each)
  • Door sizes and types (garage doors, entry doors)
  • Insulation R-values:
    • Walls: R-13 to R-21 (planned)
    • Ceiling: R-49 (planned cathedral)
    • Garage doors: ~R-9 to R-18
  • Air leakage estimate (use “average” for new construction)

Location:

  • Clare County, Michigan (Climate Zone 6)
  • Design temperatures:
    • Winter: -5°F to 0°F (99% heating)
    • Summer: 85-90°F (1% cooling)

Orientation:

  • Note which walls face N/S/E/W
  • Sun exposure through windows

Expected Results (Rough Estimates)

Garage (960 sq ft, 10 ft ceiling):

  • Heating: 15,000-25,000 BTU (supplemental to radiant floor)
  • Cooling: 20,000-30,000 BTU (metal roof solar gain)

Loft (estimate 600-800 sq ft):

  • Heating: 12,000-18,000 BTU
  • Cooling: 10,000-15,000 BTU

Total System Capacity Needed: 30,000-50,000 BTU

Likely Outdoor Unit: MXZ-3C30NA or MXZ-4C36NA (30k-36k BTU, 3-4 zones)

🏪 STEP 2: IDENTIFY WHOLESALE SUPPLIERS

Top Wholesale HVAC Suppliers (Ship to Michigan)

1. AC Direct (acdirect.com)

  • Specializes: Mitsubishi, Daikin, Fujitsu mini-splits
  • Pricing: Contractor-level wholesale
  • Shipping: Free shipping on most units
  • Warranty: Full manufacturer warranty (registered online)
  • Support: Technical support, installation guides
  • Reviews: Excellent (trusted by DIYers and contractors)

2. Alpine Home Air (alpinehomeair.com)

  • Specializes: Blueridge brand (not Mitsubishi)
  • Pricing: Budget-friendly, lower than Mitsubishi
  • Warranty: 5-year parts, 7-year compressor
  • Note: Good for budget builds, but you want Mitsubishi

3. HVAC Direct (hvacdirect.com)

  • Specializes: All major brands including Mitsubishi
  • Pricing: Competitive wholesale
  • Shipping: Often free or reduced
  • Reviews: Good reputation

4. The AC Outlet (theacoutlet.com)

  • Specializes: Custom-built multi-zone systems
  • Pricing: Wholesale, build-your-own configurator
  • Advantage: Can mix and match indoor units
  • Example: MXZ-3C24NA with custom indoor units

5. AC Wholesalers (acwholesalers.com)

  • Specializes: Multi-zone Mitsubishi systems
  • Pricing: Wholesale contractor pricing
  • Selection: Large inventory

6. Budget Heating & Air (budgetheating.com)

  • Specializes: Mitsubishi multi-zone kits
  • Pricing: Pre-configured kits with discount pricing

Why:

  • ✅ Best Mitsubishi selection and pricing
  • ✅ Excellent customer support
  • ✅ Free shipping
  • ✅ Full manufacturer warranty
  • ✅ Many positive DIYer reviews
  • ✅ Technical support for installation questions

💻 STEP 3: GET QUOTES FROM WHOLESALE SUPPLIERS

Quote Request Process

Option A: Online Configurator (Fastest)

  1. Go to acdirect.com or theacoutlet.com
  2. Select “Multi-Zone Systems” or “Custom Build”
  3. Choose outdoor unit capacity (based on Manual J)
  4. Select indoor units (types and sizes)
  5. Add to cart, view pricing
  6. Don’t purchase yet - use as comparison quote

Option B: Contact for Custom Quote (Best for complex systems)

  1. Call or email AC Direct: 1-800-270-4310
  2. Provide:
    • Manual J results (BTU requirements per zone)
    • Desired indoor unit types (wall, cassette, ducted)
    • Michigan location (for shipping quote)
    • Installation timeline
  3. Request itemized quote
  4. Ask about current promotions or rebates

Sample System Pricing (2024 Estimates)

Mitsubishi MXZ-3C30NA (30k BTU, 3-zone) System:

Configuration:

  • Outdoor unit: MXZ-3C30NA (30,000 BTU, Hyper-Heat)
  • Indoor unit 1: MSZ-GL15NA (15k BTU wall mount) - Garage
  • Indoor unit 2: MSZ-GL12NA (12k BTU wall mount) - Loft
  • Indoor unit 3: MSZ-GL09NA (9k BTU wall mount) - Loft bedroom (if needed)
  • Linesets (25’, 35’, 15’)
  • Installation accessories

Estimated Wholesale Pricing:

  • Outdoor unit: $2,200-2,800
  • Indoor units (3×): 1,800-2,700
  • Linesets: $200-400
  • Accessories (brackets, drain pumps, electrical): $200-300
  • Total Equipment: $4,400-6,200

Compare to Retail:

  • Same system from HVAC contractor: $7,000-10,000 (installed)
  • Your cost: 2,000-3,000 labor = $6,400-9,200
  • Savings: $600-2,800

Mitsubishi MXZ-4C36NA (36k BTU, 4-zone) System:

Configuration:

  • Outdoor unit: MXZ-4C36NA (36,000 BTU)
  • Indoor units: Mix of wall/cassette units totaling ~36k BTU capacity

Estimated Wholesale Pricing:

  • Total Equipment: $5,500-7,500

Compare to Retail:

  • Contractor installed: $9,000-12,000
  • Your cost: 2,500-3,500 labor = $8,000-11,000
  • Savings: $1,000-2,000

Get Multiple Quotes

Recommended: Get quotes from 3 sources

  1. AC Direct (primary)
  2. HVAC Direct or The AC Outlet (comparison)
  3. Local HVAC contractor (full install quote - for comparison)

👷 STEP 4: FIND LABOR-ONLY HVAC CONTRACTORS

How to Find Contractors Willing to Do Labor-Only

Method 1: Direct Ask (Best success rate)

  1. Search “HVAC contractor Clare County MI” or nearby cities
  2. Call and ask: “Do you do labor-only mini-split installations if I provide the equipment?”
  3. Explain: “I’m purchasing a Mitsubishi MXZ system online, need licensed installation”
  4. Many contractors say yes (they still make $2,000-3,000 on labor)

Method 2: Mitsubishi Diamond Contractors

  1. Go to: mitsubishicomfort.com/find-a-contractor
  2. Find Mitsubishi-certified contractors in Michigan
  3. Call and ask about labor-only installation
  4. Advantage: Mitsubishi-trained, warranty support

Method 3: Online Contractor Platforms

  1. Thumbtack, HomeAdvisor, Angi (formerly Angie’s List)
  2. Post project: “Need labor-only installation for Mitsubishi mini-split I’m providing”
  3. Get multiple bids

Method 4: HVAC Forums/Facebook Groups

  1. Search “Michigan HVAC contractors” Facebook groups
  2. Post asking for labor-only recommendations
  3. Often get contractor referrals from other DIYers

What to Ask When Vetting Contractors

Essential Questions:

  • “Are you licensed and insured for HVAC work in Michigan?”
  • “Have you installed Mitsubishi mini-splits before?”
  • “Are you comfortable with labor-only installs?”
  • “What does your labor-only quote include?” (see scope below)
  • “Do you handle the electrical disconnect box or should I pre-install?”
  • “Will you perform the vacuum test and refrigerant charge?”
  • “Do you warranty your installation work?”
  • “Can you help me register the equipment warranty with Mitsubishi?”

Labor-Only Installation Scope

What Should Be Included in Labor Quote:

Outdoor Unit Installation:

  • Mount outdoor unit on pad or wall brackets (you provide)
  • Level and secure unit
  • Electrical disconnect box installation and wiring
  • Connect to electrical service (you provide circuit)

Indoor Unit Installation:

  • Mount indoor units (wall, ceiling, or duct connections)
  • Install drain lines and condensate pumps (if needed)
  • Run linesets through walls/ceilings (with sleeves you provide)
  • Connect linesets to indoor and outdoor units
  • Flare or braze connections

System Commissioning:

  • Vacuum test (remove air and moisture from lines)
  • Refrigerant charge (weigh-in or pressure method)
  • System startup and testing
  • Verify heating and cooling operation
  • Set up remote controls/thermostats

Cleanup:

  • Remove debris and packing materials
  • Clean up work areas

Expected Labor-Only Pricing

Typical Labor Quotes:

  • Simple install (2-zone, easy runs): $1,500-2,500
  • Medium complexity (3-zone, some difficult runs): $2,000-3,000
  • Complex (4-zone, long runs, ceiling cassettes): $2,500-4,000

Factors Affecting Labor Cost:

  • Number of zones (more indoor units = more labor)
  • Lineset length (longer runs = more time)
  • Indoor unit types (wall mount easiest, ducted most complex)
  • Accessibility (crawlspace/attic runs cost more)
  • Electrical work needed (running new circuits)

Red Flags When Hiring

❌ Avoid contractors who:

  • Refuse to do labor-only (they just want equipment markup)
  • Don’t have liability insurance
  • Can’t provide references
  • Quote significantly below market ($1,000 for 3-zone install is suspicious)
  • Pressure you to buy equipment through them
  • Won’t provide written scope and quote

✅ Look for contractors who:

  • Have Mitsubishi training/certification (bonus)
  • Provide detailed written quotes
  • Have good online reviews (Google, Facebook)
  • Are willing to explain the process
  • Offer warranty on their labor (1-3 years typical)

📦 STEP 5: COORDINATE EQUIPMENT DELIVERY & INSTALLATION

Timeline for Coordination

6-8 Weeks Before Install:

  • Complete Manual J calculation
  • Get wholesale equipment quotes
  • Get 3+ labor-only installation quotes
  • Select contractor and book installation date

4-6 Weeks Before Install:

  • Order equipment from wholesale supplier
  • Confirm delivery date and location
  • Coordinate with contractor on delivery timing

2-4 Weeks Before Install:

  • Receive equipment, inspect for damage
  • Store in dry, secure location (garage after it’s enclosed)
  • Confirm installation date with contractor
  • Ensure electrical circuits are ready (or contractor will install)

Week of Install:

  • Verify contractor has all necessary tools and materials
  • Ensure equipment is accessible on-site
  • Be available for questions during install
  • Plan for 1-2 day installation (multi-zone)

Equipment Inspection Upon Delivery

Critical: Inspect immediately and document

  1. Check outer boxes for damage (take photos)
  2. Open boxes carefully, inspect units
  3. Verify all components present:
    • Outdoor unit
    • Indoor units (all zones)
    • Remote controls
    • Mounting brackets
    • Electrical whips/connectors
    • Drain pans (if ceiling cassette)
    • Manufacturer documentation
  4. Report any damage to shipper AND supplier within 24-48 hours
  5. Take photos of any damage for insurance claim

What You Need to Provide Before Install

Electrical:

  • Dedicated circuit to outdoor unit location (contractor may install disconnect)
  • Circuits to indoor units (often wired during install)
  • Permit (if required - check Clare County requirements)

Structural:

  • Wall/ceiling penetrations (or contractor can cut)
  • Concrete pad or wall brackets for outdoor unit
  • Access to install locations (ladders if needed)

Optional (discuss with contractor):

  • Pre-installed wall sleeves for linesets (PVC or copper)
  • Condensate drain routing plan
  • Outdoor unit pad (concrete or composite)

💡 STEP 6: MAXIMIZE YOUR SAVINGS

Additional Ways to Save

1. Buy During Off-Season

  • Best time: September-November (post-cooling season)
  • Also good: March-April (post-heating season)
  • Avoid: June-August (peak AC demand = higher prices)
  • Savings: 5-15% during slow periods

2. Look for Manufacturer Rebates

  • Mitsubishi sometimes offers rebates ($300-1,000)
  • Check: mitsubishicomfort.com/rebates
  • Utility rebates (Consumers Energy, DTE in Michigan)
  • Federal tax credits (heat pump systems may qualify)

3. Bundle Equipment Purchase

  • If buying boiler too, ask for package pricing
  • Multi-system discount from wholesaler

4. Negotiate Labor Quote

  • Get 3+ quotes, use lowest to negotiate
  • Off-season install (contractors want work)
  • Offer cash payment (some contractors discount for cash)

5. DIY What You Can

  • Install outdoor unit pad yourself (200)
  • Run electrical circuits yourself (if licensed/permitted)
  • Pre-install wall sleeves for linesets
  • Don’t DIY: Refrigerant work (requires EPA certification)

Warranty Considerations

Important: Wholesale Equipment Has Full Warranty

  • Mitsubishi provides same warranty regardless of where purchased
  • You must register warranty online within 60-90 days
  • Keep proof of purchase and installation date
  • Some warranties require licensed installation (you’re doing this)

Typical Mitsubishi Warranties:

  • Parts: 5-7 years
  • Compressor: 7-12 years
  • Labor: Not included (your contractor should warranty their labor)

Warranty Registration:

  1. Go to Mitsubishi Electric’s website after install
  2. Register each unit (outdoor + all indoor units)
  3. Provide: Serial numbers, install date, installer info
  4. Keep confirmation email

📊 COST COMPARISON EXAMPLE

Scenario: 3-Zone Mitsubishi MXZ System

Option A: Traditional Contractor (Retail)

ItemCost
Equipment (contractor cost)$4,000
Contractor markup (100%)+$4,000
Installation labor+$2,500
Total$10,500

Option B: Wholesale + Labor-Only (Your Strategy)

ItemCost
Equipment (AC Direct wholesale)$4,800
Contractor markup$0
Installation labor (labor-only)+$2,500
Total$7,300

YOU SAVE: $3,200 (30%)

⚠️ POTENTIAL CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS

Challenge 1: “Contractor Won’t Do Labor-Only”

Solution:

  • Call more contractors (success rate ~50%)
  • Emphasize you’re providing quality Mitsubishi equipment
  • Explain you’re a serious customer, not a DIYer cutting corners
  • Offer to pay 50% upfront to show commitment
  • Consider contractors 30-60 miles away (more competition)

Challenge 2: “Warranty Concerns”

Reality Check:

  • ✅ Manufacturer warranty is valid regardless of purchase source
  • ✅ As long as licensed contractor installs, warranty is protected
  • ❌ Some contractors claim “we can’t warranty equipment we didn’t sell” (not true)
  • Solution: Show contractor the Mitsubishi warranty terms (equipment warranty is separate from labor warranty)

Challenge 3: “Equipment Arrives Damaged”

Solution:

  • Inspect immediately upon delivery
  • Document with photos/video
  • Contact supplier within 24 hours
  • File claim with shipping company
  • Reputable suppliers (AC Direct) will replace quickly

Challenge 4: “Wrong Equipment Ordered”

Prevention:

  • Triple-check model numbers before ordering
  • Confirm BTU capacities match Manual J
  • Verify voltage (208-230V standard residential)
  • Ensure Hyper-Heat models for Michigan climate

Challenge 5: “Contractor Finds Issue During Install”

Examples:

  • Linesets too short (order 10% longer than measured)
  • Electrical circuit undersized (confirm amperage requirements)
  • Mounting location unsuitable (measure clearances before ordering)

Solution:

  • Plan for 10-15% contingency budget
  • Have contractor pre-visit site before ordering equipment
  • Order extra accessories (longer linesets, additional brackets)

🎯 YOUR SPECIFIC SYSTEM RECOMMENDATION

Based on your garage design documents:

Outdoor Unit:

  • Model: Mitsubishi MXZ-3C30NA or MXZ-4C36NA
  • Capacity: 30,000-36,000 BTU
  • Feature: Hyper-Heat (operates to -13°F)
  • Zones: 3-4 capable

Indoor Unit 1: Main Garage (960 sq ft)

  • Type: Ceiling cassette (4-way airflow) OR short-ducted
  • Capacity: 18,000-24,000 BTU (cooling focused)
  • Why: Even distribution in large open space
  • Model: SLZ-KF18NA (cassette) or SEZ-KD18NA (ducted)

Indoor Unit 2: Loft Main Area

  • Type: Wall-mounted heat pump
  • Capacity: 9,000-12,000 BTU
  • Model: MSZ-GL12NA or MSZ-GL09NA

Indoor Unit 3: Loft Bedroom (if separate zone)

  • Type: Wall-mounted
  • Capacity: 9,000 BTU
  • Model: MSZ-GL09NA

Estimated Wholesale Pricing (AC Direct)

ComponentEstimated Cost
MXZ-3C30NA outdoor unit$2,400-2,800
Ceiling cassette (garage)$1,200-1,500
Wall mount (loft main)$700-900
Wall mount (loft bedroom)$600-800
Linesets (3×, various lengths)$300-500
Accessories & electrical$200-400
Equipment Total$5,400-6,900
Labor-only installation+$2,500-3,500
Project Total$7,900-10,400

Compare to retail installed: 4,100-5,600 (34-41%)

📋 COMPLETE ACTION CHECKLIST

Phase 1: Planning & Sizing (Now - Before Equipment Purchase)

  • Measure garage accurately (confirm 960 sq ft + loft)
  • Measure window sizes and count
  • Note insulation R-values planned (R-13 walls, R-49 ceiling)
  • Complete Manual J using CoolCalc or ServiceTitan calculator
  • Determine total BTU requirements per zone
  • Select outdoor unit capacity (30k or 36k BTU)
  • Choose indoor unit types (cassette, wall, ducted)

Phase 2: Get Quotes (4-6 weeks before installation)

  • Create account at AC Direct (acdirect.com)
  • Request quote for selected system configuration
  • Get comparison quote from HVAC Direct or The AC Outlet
  • Get full-service quote from local HVAC contractor (for comparison)
  • Compare pricing (aim for 30-40% savings)

Phase 3: Find Labor-Only Contractor (4-6 weeks before)

  • Search for HVAC contractors in Clare/Mt. Pleasant/Midland area
  • Call 5-10 contractors asking about labor-only installs
  • Request detailed quotes from 3 interested contractors
  • Check references and reviews
  • Verify licenses and insurance
  • Select contractor and book installation date

Phase 4: Purchase Equipment (6-8 weeks before install)

  • Finalize equipment selection
  • Order from AC Direct (or chosen supplier)
  • Use credit card with cashback (3-5%)
  • Confirm shipping date and delivery address
  • Arrange to be present for delivery
  • Review return/warranty policies

Phase 5: Pre-Installation Prep (2-4 weeks before)

  • Receive and inspect equipment
  • Document any shipping damage immediately
  • Store equipment securely in garage
  • Confirm installation date with contractor
  • Ensure electrical circuits ready (or schedule electrician)
  • Install outdoor unit pad (DIY or contractor)
  • Obtain any required permits (check Clare County requirements)

Phase 6: Installation Day (1-2 days)

  • Be available for contractor questions
  • Verify contractor has all tools and materials
  • Watch for proper installation practices:
    • Vacuum test performed (20-30 minutes minimum)
    • Refrigerant weighed or measured properly
    • All connections tight and insulated
    • Condensate drains tested
  • Test all zones before contractor leaves
  • Get warranty documents and installation records

Phase 7: Post-Installation (Within 30 days)

  • Register warranty online with Mitsubishi
  • Test all zones and modes (heat/cool/fan)
  • Learn remote control functions
  • Document serial numbers for all units
  • Keep all receipts and documentation
  • Pay contractor final payment (after successful testing)

🔗 Related Documentation

📞 KEY CONTACTS & RESOURCES

Wholesale Suppliers

  • AC Direct: 1-800-270-4310 | acdirect.com
  • HVAC Direct: hvacdirect.com
  • The AC Outlet: theacoutlet.com

Manual J Calculators

  • CoolCalc: coolcalc.com (recommended)
  • ServiceTitan: servicetitan.com/tools/hvac-load-calculator

Mitsubishi Resources

  • Find Contractors: mitsubishicomfort.com/find-a-contractor
  • Warranty Registration: mitsubishicomfort.com
  • Rebate Check: mitsubishicomfort.com/rebates
  • Technical Support: 1-800-433-4822

Local Requirements

  • Clare County Building Dept: (989) 539-2761
  • Michigan HVAC Licensing: michigan.gov/lara

Document Status: Active buying guide for HVAC wholesale purchase Last Updated: November 2025 Estimated Savings: $1,500-3,000 (30-50% vs. retail installed) Next Action: Complete Manual J load calculation to determine exact equipment needs

Graph View