Installing an HVAC system is a task that many homeowners must deal with, especially during the hotter months. Even though DIY is an option, it is always wise to call professionals to get the job done so there are no leaks or faulty installations.
As you prepare for an HVAC install, you might be wondering — how long does it take an HVAC professional to install an air conditioner?
How Long Does It Take a Professional to Install an AC?
On average, a professional will take about 4 to 6 hours to install an HVAC system in your house. This depends on many factors, such as how close your location is to the service provider. Living in an apartment above the ground floor will also take longer. If your installation involves just replacing an old unit with a new one, the process might be quicker.
While you can let the professionals handle the installation process, you still need to keep a few things in mind to ensure the installation has been done correctly and that you won’t need to call for a checkup right after your HVAC system is set up.
Essential Tips for a Smooth HVAC Installation
When you’re getting a new HVAC system installed, there are a few important things to keep in mind to ensure everything goes smoothly. Taking the time to focus on these details can help ensure your HVAC system runs efficiently and lasts for years. You will also know when to go for your next scheduled maintenance and call in professional AC technicians.
- Choose the Right HVAC System Size
This is the first crucial step to having a proper HVAC system that supports your house. You will have to pick the right HVAC system size—one that supports the room it is set up in. If your HVAC system is too big for your room, it will cool the area faster, leading you to constantly turn the system on and off. This puts more pressure on your compressor, affecting its longevity.
Similarly, if your HVAC system is smaller than your room, it will take longer to cool the surrounding area, spiking your electricity bills. This will require more checkups, which can be very costly.
- Ensure Proper Placement
Place your HVAC system at an angle or part of your room that allows air to flow evenly. This will help ventilate the room properly and keep the air quality in check. You should also check if your house has proper ventilation for air to pass through.
Ensure that the outdoor unit is placed under a shed or away from direct sunlight. If the AC unit is installed in direct sunlight, it will overheat, which may cause your HVAC system components to wear out. If you install your AC under a shade, it will prevent overheating and help extend the compressor’s life.
- Seal the Ductwork
While it is common for all professional AC technicians to ensure sealed-off ductwork during install and post-install check-ups, you should still check whether the ductwork is properly sealed or not yourself. Make sure there are no leaks or loose joints. If the ducts come loose, it will lead to infiltration and debris buildup. This will further ensure that the new HVAC system operates efficiently and does not need frequent repairs. Besides, with proper ductwork, you will benefit from high performance from your HVAC system and ensure good air quality indoors.
- Test & Balance the System
Professional AC technicians will be able to address any issues that may arise and ensure indoor air quality (IAQ) standards are met upon installation. Ensure they check and test your system after installing your new HVAC system.
This will help ensure high performance and maintain good air quality. Using IAQ standards verifies the rate of airflow. Also, check for any potential issues that might cause your air quality to drop later on.
Factors That Affect Installation Time
Several factors can affect how long it takes to install an HVAC system. The type of system you choose plays a big role, as more complex systems take longer to set up. If you’re replacing an old unit, the process is usually quicker than installing a new system from scratch.
- Replacement vs. New Installation
Installing and replacing an HVAC system are two different tasks and take different amounts of time. Replacing an existing HVAC unit is generally quicker because much of the necessary installation, like ductwork and wiring, has already been done before.
Professional AC technicians typically install the new unit with some minor adjustments after removing the old system. However, for a new installation, your HVAC system setup will take about 4 to 6 hours, or even more, depending on the model.
- Type of HVAC System
The type of HVAC system you choose to set up will significantly affect the time needed for installation. A new HVAC system may require mounting the units and running refrigerant lines. If your system model is different from your previous model, you may need to get bigger frames to hold it in place.
- Weather Conditions
There might be a delay in installing your HVAC system due to poor weather conditions. If it is raining outside, it will be harder for professional AC technicians to properly install your new system.
Similarly, if the weather is too cold, the technicians may feel uncomfortable trying to set up the system, and the work may also turn out to be faulty. It is best to find a suitable time and date when the weather is appropriate for installing your HVAC system.
- Proximity & Accessibility
Your distance from your service provider will also impact the time frame of your HVAC system installation. It is best to contact your nearest HVAC system installation and maintenance service provider so you can get help more quickly. The closer you live, the faster your system will be checked, preventing problems from arising. But more importantly, ensure that the place where you are hoping to get the A/C installed is accessible easily by the HVAC tech. It’ll help get the work done faster and better.