As the warm season approaches, it’s important to have a fully functioning air conditioner to keep your home cool and comfortable. Ideally, you should have your AC checked before the summer season to ensure it will run reliably.
However, if your air conditioner is on the older side or is no longer operating, you may have to purchase a new one, which will necessitate booking an installation appointment with an HVAC professional. If you are unfamiliar with the installation process, the following tips will help you prepare for an appointment so the installation process runs smoothly.
1. Choose the Right AC System
You do not necessarily need to be an expert in HVAC systems, but before a system installation, it is better to be aware of the different AC systems available to choose from. The traditional split systems have an outdoor unit next to the exterior wall. The technician installs the indoor unit on the wall adjacent to the outdoor unit. Ducts run through your house to distribute conditioned air.
A ductless mini-split system is a popular HVAC system due to its high efficiency and compact space. You can choose this system if you have limited space in your home. This system also allows you to control the temperature in different rooms better.
Geothermal systems use fluids and cycle them through loops of pipes placed underground to move the heat in your home to the ground. When choosing the right AC system for your home, it is also essential to consider the size of your home to get the proper system size. Units that are too big or too small will have issues cooling down your home.
2. Find a Qualified Technician
The installation process can influence the efficiency of the AC system. For proper unit functioning, ensure you contact a reliable and certified technician. Research the HVAC contractors in your area with a reputation for delivering quality services. You can ask for recommendations from friends and relatives. You can also look for online reviews to gauge if the contractor’s previous customers were satisfied with their installation services.
The services of a qualified technician may be more expensive than those of an unskilled individual. Regardless, it is essential to ensure you hire a professional for their expertise and knowledge. A professional will also ensure that all safety protocols are observed during the installation process and that your system operates safely after installation.
AC manufacturers demand qualified professionals to install the system. If your system needs repair or replacement, the warranty will cover the expenses when you provide proof a professional installed your system.
3. Make Room for the Installation Team
Before the AC installation team arrives, clean your house and remove clutter and obstacles from the team’s operation path. Keep the site where the system will be installed clear for a faster process. The space should also provide a room where the technicians will lay down their tools. You may have to trim foliage for outdoor units. Remove valuable home accessories such as antiques and artwork from the work areas and move them to a safer place for indoor units. This will help reduce property damage and accidents.
For the safety of your children and pets, make arrangements to keep them away on the day of installation. Animals and little children might wander over to the job site and may be injured by the installation equipment and tools. It is also important to alert other members of the house what’s going on.
4. Inspect the Ductwork
If you choose to install a traditional ducted split system, the technicians will install ductwork around your home for air distribution. If you have an existing ductwork system, it is essential to check the condition of the existing ducts.
With time, dirt and debris may find their way into these ducts. They may also be damaged and have leaks or cracks. Before installing an air conditioning system, it is crucial to thoroughly clean and air out the ductwork. Clean air ducts contribute to improved indoor air quality.
If you’re unsure whether the ductwork is in good condition, ensure a professional examines it. If there are leaks, the professional will seal them adequately to prevent air loss. Leaking ducts are a significant reason for cooling system inefficiency, and you will have to pay higher energy bills over time. Some ductwork may be damaged beyond repair, and the professional will recommend a replacement. The replacement process will extend the AC installation duration and increase the budget, so you must prepare accordingly.
5. Consider Thermostat Replacement and Relocation
If your current air conditioner has a programmable thermostat, consider replacing it with a smart model. The thermostat controls the operation of your AC, and with a smart model, you can save on energy costs. You can manage your air conditioner even when away from your home.
For instance, if you unintentionally leave your AC on, you can turn it off or put it into power-saving mode regardless of your location. Smart thermostats are recommended for their ability to reduce energy consumption and save money on cooling bills. They are also easier to use than programmable thermostats.
The location of your thermostat can determine your energy consumption. Before the installation day, look for the best place to install the thermostat. Avoid areas with extreme temperatures, like the kitchen, above air vents or in direct exposure to sun rays. Placing your thermostat in such areas will give an inaccurate temperature reading.
The thermostat will signal the air conditioner to run unnecessarily, resulting in higher energy consumption. The optimal place to position your smart thermostat is in a room you regularly use; place it on an interior wall where it is unobstructed.
6. Be Present on the Installation Day
Clear your schedule to ensure you are available on the AC installation day. The installation team may have questions during the job, and as the homeowner, you must ensure efficient communication. Unforeseen circumstances may arise during the project. Even though the installation team will have done an initial assessment, some issues may be hidden and may not be noticed until the work begins. For example, there may be rotten wall studs, asbestos or a need for electrical upgrades.
You need to review the system after it is delivered to your home to ensure it is the model you ordered to avoid complications later. Being present on the installation day also allows you to confirm that the technicians test the system after installation so you have peace of mind after completing the project. You can ask about warranty coverage and system maintenance services during this period.
New air conditioner installation can be a daunting experience, especially if you are unaware of what to expect or how to prepare for the process. Using this as a guide, you can prepare early to ensure the process runs smoothly and the installation team completes the project within the scheduled time frame.
If you need HVAC or plumbing service in Southwest Florida, look no further. At Plumbing & Cooling Nerds, we have been providing these services since 2007. To learn more about our services or to book an appointment, contact Plumbing & Cooling Nerds today.
