Air Conditioning - Installing mini splits/ductless

I would like to replace my window shakers with ductless heatpumps. The layout of the house and usage makes central ac not the best choice. I have been researching the available units and many claim to be "self install". However, the instuctions have been poorly translated from the original writing. There seems to be two methods: vacuum pump the line set and indoor unit or use the charge in the condenser to "purge the unit".
I would be greatful for ideas as to one over the other.
Also, I think, based on the drawings that the "gas line valve" must be a "three way" design. By that, it looks like you would hook vacuum pump there, open valve so pump can pull from liquid valve all the way through evap. Then you would close valve and remove pump, close the access caps and then open the valves all the way(?)
The purge instuctions are to open gas valve 90 degrees, press valve stem(?) for 3 sec. Wait 10 minutes and repeat 3 times(?). Then open both valves. Does this sound correct?
Any advice will be greatfully received!

Id say yes you can put the unit in ok. if code will let you there. But you cant work on the freon side of it at all you have to be EPA to charge the unit. Now like that just purge the lines set up that alone can cost you $10,000.00 If you try and do it also the tech if he does. You have to vacuum the lines you cant purge them.

ED ;)

Those instructions you are reading are YEARS old. They were written before venting of refrigerants was outlawed.

Thanks guys. I think the instructions are actually new, but "they ain't from around here", ya know what I mean! Is a pump down something I can do or should I stop this project now?

If your not EPA you cant do anything with freon.

ED ;)

I understand what you mean by "they ain't from around here". :D
You should call someone certified by EPA to work with refrigerants. The chances of getting caught are not great but I would not want to risk $10K + jail time to save a couple of hundred bucks.

In the USA we follow the montreal Protocal that stated we can't vent any refrigerants.
If refrigerants are vented there are steep fines and a reward to any person with info on venting.
Some countries don't follow this so in these countries you can vent.
I was taught to pull a vacume so moisture will not be in the system.
When moisture mixes with refrigerant it produces an acid that will eat the inside of the tubing.