Many of us will hire an air conditioning installer to help us with the process of getting a new unit installed in your home. They take care of everything right? They might even help with choosing the right unit for your home. Even though they do everything for you, you should be prepared to do some legwork before central air installation to ensure that it goes as smoothly as possible.
A basic understanding of air conditioning installation is all you need. We’ve made it easier by breaking down what you should know about the process.
Helpful Steps To Prepare For A Central Air Installation
Before you get started, you should do your research to find the right contractor for your job. While cost is one factor, the installer’s experience and track record are as important. A poorly installed air conditioning unit will not work efficiently and you will have to replace it sooner. Research a few contractors and compare them on the cost, experience, and reputation so you can be confident about your decision.
Understand The System You Are Getting
Air conditioners are not cookie-cutter products that can work with any house. There are three different types of air conditioners, and each has its own attributes. It’s important to understand each of the characteristics of each type of air conditioning unit which are outlined below:
Geothermal System
These are actually used for heating and cooling, so you use it year-round in most cases. It’s the most energy-efficient and eco-friendly out of the three types of air conditioning units. It uses between 25 percent to 50 percent less electricity than other types of heating and cooling systems. The cost of these units is higher up-front, but you get the electric energy savings that pay for them over time.
Geothermal systems work by using an underground loop of pipes that are under or close to your home. The system moves the temperature-conducting fluid through the pipes. Thermal energy is collected through this process and circulated back into the pump as heat that flows through your duct work. When it is used for cooling, the pump will remove heat from the air, joining it with the fluid, which then circulates back to the ground.
Ductless Mini-Split System
There are wall-mounted indoor units and outdoor compressors. They work through a small hole that’s drilled into the wall. They are also less noisy since they don’t require ductwork. Like a geothermal system, you can get both cooling and heating functionality from these units. You can cut 30 percent of cooling costs using a ductless mini-split system over conventional air conditioners.
These heating and cooling units have a variety of uses in your home. They are particularly useful if your home has new additions such as a sunroom. You can use them to support a room that has heating/cooling issues, such as when there’s no ductwork that exists in the home, and when you have multiple temperature zone needs throughout your home.
Traditional Split System
Out of the three types, this is the most popular option among homeowners. They include a condenser and compressor, as well as an evaporator coil and blower, which are each part of the indoor unit. Traditional split systems are usually connected to a heat pump or furnace through the indoor unit.
The evaporator coil removes heat and moisture in the air. The outdoor unit condenser coil releases that heat while the compressor pumps the refrigerant between the two coils. Circulation of this cold air occurs through a network of ducts.
Estimate The Installation Costs
Installing a new central air conditioner is an expensive endeavor. The costs can vary due to a number of factors, such as how large your home is, the geographical location, and the design of your home. A Savings and Cost estimate summary by Energy Star shows the average upgrade cost of a one-story slab in Daytona Beach, Florida as $3,917, while a one-story slab in Fort Worth, Texas will run you $4,256.
The air conditioning unit itself is only one aspect of what you will be paying to have it installed. Here’s a look at the costs that might be involved:
- Pre-installation evaluation – Load calculations that are used to determine the right size unit for your home.
- Ductwork and design – Review of your existing ducts to determine if upgrades or mods need to be made to accommodate the new unit.
- Central air unit – The type of unit that you select for your home.
- Installation and labor – The costs associated with getting your new unit installed. Choose a reputable contractor that has a track record for good installation work.
Size The Central Air Unit
Make sure that the space where your new unit will be placed will actually fit. Whether you are using the previous space or not, you should take the measurements of your new unit and make sure that it matches the space. If there is an issue, consider how you can adjust the space accordingly. That might mean changing the location of where the central air conditioner will be placed.
Prepare The Replacement Area
Before the central air installation takes place, you should clear the contractor’s path to working. Remove furniture such as chairs, rugs, and other items from the entrance all the way to the new air conditioner’s area. Your contractor doesn’t want to accidentally break anything just as much as you don’t want anything to happen to your valuables. They will be carrying in equipment and tools, so make this process easier for them.
Test The System After Installation
Once installation is complete, you should be sure to check the new unit. Start by comparing the temperature between the old thermostat and the new one that’s connected to your system. They should be the same. To run a cool test, set the thermostat to “auto,” setting the target temperature to a room temperature that’s comfortable for you.
The room should start cooling immediately once the temperature falls above the setting. Pay attention to how the unit sounds, identifying any rattles or clanks that might indicate something is loose.
Work With Germantown HVAC Contractors
Presidential Heating and Air Conditioning have been in the industry for 35 years. We’re dedicated to providing high-quality service that you can trust. Contact us today to get a free estimate on your home heating and cooling needs by giving us a call at 301.900.5559 or schedule your central air installation online.