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Without professional knowledge, I wouldn't do it myself - you need a vacuum pump kit and have to handle the refrigerant properly, otherwise you'll damage the entire system or yourself. The pipes need to be insulated and routed exactly right, and if the pressure isn't correct, you won't notice until it's too late. Honestly, get advice from a professional before you mess something up - this is one of those things where cutting corners gets expensive.
Most DIY installations fail not because of the technology itself, but because people ignore the legal requirements. In many German states, you're not allowed to install a split system with more than a certain amount of refrigerant (usually from 10kg onwards) yourself at all - a certified professional has to do it. People tend to overlook this because it might be technically doable. So definitely check beforehand what your state and your living situation allow.
For smaller systems where it's permitted: the inside of the pipes has to be absolutely dry and clean, otherwise you'll get moisture and dirt in the system, which destroys the compressor. A good pump and plenty of time for evacuation isn't optional. On top of that, incorrectly routed pipes can cause water hammer and ruin the whole thing. And if you don't have experience with pressure gauges, you won't be able to tell whether the right amount of refrigerant is actually in there.
Honestly? If you're unsure, call a professional. The thing's supposed to last for years, and a repair later on is more expensive than getting the installation right from the start.
When it comes to vacuuming and filling the system, you really do need specialized tools and a certified technician with F-Gas certification - there's no way around the pros there. What often gets underestimated: even if the technical installation is done right, faulty piping and poor insulation can lead to huge energy losses that'll hit your electricity bill year after year.
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