A proper AC installation requires extensive knowledge of HVAC systems, which most homeowners don’t have. However, a professional AC installer has the training, tools, and equipment to properly select and set up your air conditioning system. They can ensure it will meet your home cooling needs and run safely, reliably, and efficiently all summer.
Licensed technicians consider everything required for AC installation, which includes:
Space for an Air Conditioner
An AC needs an enclosed space where it doesn’t impose on household activities. The indoor evaporator unit is often installed in a utility closet or basement. If using wall-mounted air handlers, they should be placed 7 to 8 feet high in a 10-foot-high room. Window units should be 3 or 4 feet from the floor.
Make sure there’s at least 6 to 12 inches of space surrounding an indoor unit. Outdoor condensers should be set on a level concrete pad with at least 2 feet of clearance on all sides.
A Properly Sized AC Unit
Only a correctly sized air conditioner can perform at maximum efficiency. A contractor should perform an industry-approved load calculation to determine what sized AC unit will meet your home’s cooling demands. Your home’s square footage is one factor that’s considered. Other factors include the number, size, and location of windows as well as how well-insulated your home is. An improperly sized AC won’t maintain comfort, run efficiently, or go too long without needing major repairs.
Properly Sized and Sealed Ductwork
An AC installation or replacement may require new ductwork. Replacing HVAC ducts requires careful planning; they come in various sizes. Matching them with your system enables it to run efficiently and maintain a steady airflow so all rooms are evenly cooled. An AC installer will also make sure ducts are tightly connected and sealed so there’s no compromise in comfort or indoor air quality.
An AC Installer’s Toolkit
Some tools used during AC installation may be familiar. A technician uses screwdrivers, which may include flathead and Phillips bits as well as Keystone, Slotted, or Allen Recess screwdrivers. Wrenches, vises, and power drills are also used. Other tools an AC technician uses include:
- Magnetic and hex-head nut drivers
- Hacksaws to cut copper tubes and metal
- Blades of various sizes, thicknesses, and materials
- Hand seamers to bend/flatten sheet metal
- Snips to cut metal sheets to size
- Steel taps to cut threaded holes in metal parts
- Metal files to smooth surfaces and parts
- Multimeters to measure electrical current
- Pressure gauges to check for refrigerant leaks
- Nitrogen regulators to reduce gas or liquid pressure
- Staple guns to assemble ductwork
- Psychrometers to measure airflow and relative humidity
Safety Gear
A trained AC installer uses various safety gear to protect themselves. They wear goggles, masks, gloves, and ear protection. Steel-toe work boots are also worn. These reduce the risk of slipping when working on ladders and other potentially hazardous surfaces and protect workers’ feet should an object fall.
An Up-to-Date Electrical System
A modern central or mini-split AC system requires at least 240 volts. Depending on your home, you may need an electrician to install a higher-power, grounded outlet. A dedicated circuit and circuit breaker should be installed. If your existing electrical panel is under 200 amps, it may need to be upgraded along with the electrical meter and wiring to support the new AC’s electrical demand.
An In-Home Inspection
Your local AC installer should visit your home before scheduling an AC installation. They can perform an inspection to determine what type of air conditioner to recommend, where refrigerant lines will run, and the ideal location for components. Another factor they’ll consider is whether the location of your current AC will accommodate a larger coil, which improves the efficiency of newer units.
The Right Type/Amount of Refrigerant
Air conditioners no longer use older R-22 Freon. It has been phased out due to its environmental impacts. The installer will add R-410A or another coolant. The right amount of refrigerant is also important and depends on your system. Precision is essential because an air conditioner cycles the same refrigerant through a closed system. Too much or too little will reduce cooling performance, increase energy consumption, and eventually cause your AC to break down.
Post-Installation Testing
Once all the equipment is installed, your AC installer will:
- Test the System: It is cycled on and off to measure temperature differentials and verify cool air reaches every room.
- Measure Airflow: This ensures the system is properly balanced. Adjustments can be made at this point to improve performance and efficiency.
- Inspection: The technician will perform or schedule an inspection to satisfy the requirements of your permit and local codes.
Schedule AC Installation with Over the Moon
Our licensed, trained, and experienced AC installers specialize in traditional ducted split systems and mini-split installation. If you’re considering a mini-split, we can install single-zone, dual-zone, or multi-zone systems. We also install packaged units. Local customers in Wisconsin benefit from proper equipment sizing and installation, increased comfort, and improved energy efficiency. To learn more about our AC, heating, and ductwork services and our maintenance plan, contact us online or call (262) 510-0956.