What to expect during your first air conditioning installation?

Installing a new air conditioning system represents a significant commitment to enjoying your home during the hot summer season. If this is your first time scheduling an air conditioning installation, you might be wondering what to expect and how to prepare. The good news is that the installation process is smooth and easy with the right contractor, who follows the proper process. 

 

Step 1: A professional assessment

Your HVAC contractor should complete a home evaluation prior to beginning the actual installation. This thorough assessment will include evaluating the size of your home, the level of insulation, and the existing ductwork. The goal is to be able to recommend an AC unit that will cool your entire home comfortably, and avoid spikes in your energy bills as much as possible.

 

Step 2: Removal of the old system (if applicable)

If you have an existing AC unit, your contractor will simply remove the older unit prior to installing the new system. This is a good time to ask your contractor whether servicing the ductwork or vents is needed to ensure your new system operates at peak efficiency. 

 

Stage 3: Putting in the new air conditioning unit. 

When everything is ready, the new system will be installed. This involves: 

1. Connecting the indoor and outdoor components.
2. Installing the refrigerant lines and wiring. 
3. Sealing and testing the ductwork. 
4. Checking for uniform airflow throughout your home. 

This typically takes anywhere from a few hours to a full day, depending on how big the system is, and the condition of your ducts. 

Beat the heat with a new AC installation from Boyle Energy! Call us today at 610-347-5197 to schedule your installation and enjoy cool comfort all summer long!

Stage 4 – Testing the system and making adjustments. 

Once the new system is installed, the technician will check things like the thermostat, airflow, and cooling capacity. At this stage, many homeowners also ask when they should schedule an air conditioning tune-up to keep their new system running efficiently.

Stage 5 – Getting comfortable with your new AC system. 

The contractor will guide you through the installation and explain how to use the thermostat, when to book maintenance, and what issues to be on the lookout for. This is to ensure you have confidence operating and utilizing your new air conditioning unit.

 

Step 6: Maintenance for long-lasting benefits

An air conditioning system is a long-term investment, and maintaining it requires consistent upkeep. An AC tune up once a year can keep your air conditioning system functioning longer, lower your energy costs, and prevent costly repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How should I prepare my home for an air conditioning installation?

Before the installation, clear the areas around the indoor and outdoor equipment and provide technicians with easy access to the work areas. If an old system is being removed, clearing furniture or stored items around the equipment can help the installation proceed more smoothly.

2. Do I need to be home during an AC installation?

It is generally best for an adult homeowner or authorized person to be available, particularly at the beginning and end of the installation. The technician may need access to different areas of the home and will typically review the new system and its operation with you once the work is complete.

3. Will my AC installation require electrical upgrades?

It may. A new air conditioning system can have different electrical requirements from an older unit. During the pre-installation assessment, the contractor can determine whether the existing electrical panel, wiring, disconnect, or other components are suitable for the new equipment.

4. Will new ductwork be required when installing central air conditioning?

Not always. If your home already has suitable ductwork, the existing system may be able to accommodate the new AC equipment. However, damaged, undersized, poorly sealed, or inadequate ductwork may need to be repaired or modified to ensure proper airflow and cooling performance.

5. What happens if my home does not have existing ductwork?

A traditional central AC system generally requires ductwork to distribute cooled air throughout the home. If installing new ducts is impractical, a ductless mini-split system may provide an alternative by using individual indoor air handlers connected to an outdoor unit.

6. Will installing a new AC system make my home more energy efficient?

A properly selected and installed system can improve cooling efficiency, particularly when it replaces an older, inefficient unit. However, actual energy savings depend on factors such as equipment efficiency, system sizing, ductwork condition, insulation, thermostat settings, and how much you use the system.

7. What happens to my old air conditioner after it is removed?

The old equipment should be removed and handled appropriately by the installation contractor. Because air conditioners contain refrigerant and other components that require proper handling, disposal should be managed according to applicable environmental and safety requirements rather than treating the equipment as ordinary household waste.

8. How soon can I use my new air conditioner after installation?

Your new AC should be ready to operate once the installation is complete and the technician has finished startup and performance checks. The technician should confirm that the system is functioning properly, including airflow, thermostat operation, and cooling performance, before completing the installation.

9. What should I check before accepting a completed AC installation?

Before the technician leaves, confirm that the system is cooling properly, the thermostat operates as expected, airflow is reaching the intended areas, and you understand the basic controls and maintenance requirements. Ask the installer about the equipment warranty, maintenance schedule, and what to do if you notice a problem.

10. What warranty should I expect with a new AC installation?

Warranty coverage varies by manufacturer, equipment, and contractor. Before approving an installation, ask what parts and labor are covered, how long the coverage lasts, and whether any registration or maintenance requirements apply. Keep your installation paperwork and warranty information for future service needs.

Conclusion

Your first air conditioning installation doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By hiring a trained HVAC contractor and planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth installation and enjoy years of reliable cooling. Just remember, regular seasonal tune-ups are just as important as installation to keep your AC running efficiently through the hottest weather. Call us today at 610-347-5197 to schedule your AC installation and enjoy cool comfort all summer long.