As a homeowner, you need to know that when the time comes for you to require air conditioning installation, you want to work with someone who knows what they are doing and can make sure that the system is installed perfectly. This way, it will give you many years of cool air. Since this is expensive equipment, you want to hire an AC professional to do the job and never attempt a DIY installation. However, it is important to know what is included so that you can verify that everything got done.

Differences Between Old and New AC Units

If you are replacing your system, you probably have something that is quite old. If so, you will be surprised to note that modern air conditioners are up to 50% larger to allow for a larger coil that will make the equipment more efficient.

As far as the location, the place where your current system is now may not accommodate your new unit. These days, codes may require that the unit be placed within a certain distance from the meter or that you allow for certain clearance surrounding the equipment.

New air conditioners will be much quieter and more efficient than the old unit you have now and your utility bill will likely also be lower.

Starting the Installation

When the technician arrives, they will want to go over some details with you before starting to work. They will discuss the new location if needed as well as precautions they will take to ensure a smooth installation. All electrical circuits and gas supply to the existing equipment will be shut off.

The refrigerant and the indoor evaporator coil will be removed as well as the copper refrigerant lines.

Installation of the New Indoor Evaporator Coil

You may have either a cased or uncased coil, but cased is preferred since it comes in an insulated cabinet with removable panels. This will sit on top of the furnace.

Installation of the New Copper Refrigerant Lines

A successful installation will include installing the new refrigerant lines with as few turns and bends as possible, close to your home’s ductwork. The line will be secured with plastic or copper strapping and will be connected to the air conditioner.

Setting the New Air Conditioner Condenser

At this point, the new AC will be set on the pad where it will stay permanently. Your installer will check that nothing has been damaged in transit before the unit is installed. The line from the previous step will now be fitted to the service valve in the new AC and welded in using oxygen and acetylene.

Filter Dryer Installation

Filter dryers absorb moisture and provide physical filtration. It is recommended that the filter dryer be installed as close to the expansion valve at the indoor coil as possible.

Installation of the New High- and Low-Voltage Wiring

High- and low-voltage wiring is essential for the new unit to operate. Using the existing power supply, a new service disconnect box will be mounted to the side of the house.

Installation of the Condensate Drain Line

The condenser line must be connected to the main side of the evaporator coil. If there is no proper floor drain in the home, a condensation pump will be used. A trap and an overflow safety switch must also be installed in the condensate system to protect the equipment from flooding.

Startup Commissioning Process

The startup and commissioning process is done once the system is completely installed and ready to operate. The system is turned on and must run for 15-20 minutes. The installer will then check the thermostat operation, system sequence of operation, and other areas.