What to Expect During a New AC Installation

Air conditioners are essential to maintain safe and comfortable indoor temperatures throughout the warmer months. It’s important to understand the AC installation process beforehand so you can prepare for the visit.

If you have never gotten a new air conditioner installed before, you may be curious about the process. We’re going to share why you need a properly installed air conditioning system and signs it’s time for a replacement and outline the installation process step by step.

Signs It's Time for a New Air Conditioner

How do you know you need a new air conditioner? There are several signs that you might need to invest in a new AC, including:

Frequent Repairs

Frequent and increasingly costly repairs signal that it may be time to replace your AC. Getting a modern AC unit installed can often be more cost-effective than making frequent repairs to extend the life of an aging system.

Rising Energy Bills

If you notice that your monthly energy costs have steadily risen, it indicates that your AC system has lost efficiency and requires more energy to meet cooling demands. Installing a new AC system will help reduce energy costs.

Uneven Cooling Throughout the Home

Uneven cooling signals that your AC is struggling to properly distribute cool air throughout your home. If you notice hot spots, it typically means your AC no longer can keep up with your home’s cooling demands.

System Age

If your AC is older than 10-12 years, it’s likely time for a new one. Once your AC reaches this age, it doesn’t typically have too much life left in it, and repairs only delay the inevitable system failure.

The Initial In-Home Assessment

Once you call a professional heating and cooling company like G&G Heating and Air Conditioning, an initial in-home assessment occurs.

Evaluating Your Existing System

HVAC professionals will evaluate your existing system to ensure it is time to replace it. They will inspect both indoor and outdoor components for signs of strain, age, and damage. They will also identify any ductwork concerns before installation day.

Calculating Cooling Requirements

Next, the HVAC technicians will assess your home size and layout to calculate cooling requirements when sizing for a new AC. Additionally, they will consider insulation levels, window placement, and sun exposure to choose the right size.

Equipment Recommendations

Then, they will help you select the right size AC for your home, sharing the top options available to you. They will explain energy efficiency ratings, such as SEER2, and discuss the available features and options. Ultimately, it is your decision which AC model you choose.

Preparing for Installation Day

After the initial assessment, you’ll prepare for your new AC installation.

Scheduling the Appointment

Once you’ve selected the equipment, you can schedule the installation appointment. Most standard AC installations can be completed in a single day. However, if ductwork modifications are required, the timeline can be extended slightly.

Before the appointment, arrange to be home for the duration of the job and take note of any questions or concerns you may have for the HVAC technicians.

Clearing Access Areas

It’s critical to clear the areas where the HVAC technicians will work to install the new AC. You should remove furniture or personal belongings near the air handler, utility closet, or wherever your indoor unit is located.

Outside, clear the area around your condenser pad of any debris or vegetation. This helps the HVAC technicians work safely and efficiently.

Protecting Your Home

A professional HVAC company will take steps to protect your home during the AC installation process. Technicians will generally lay down floor coverings to prevent scuffs, scratches, or dirt from getting on your floors. You can expect your home to be clean when the job is complete.

Removing the Old Air Conditioning System

On installation day, the HVAC technicians will remove your old air conditioner before installing the new unit.

Safe Equipment Removal

Before the new system is installed, HVAC technicians will carefully disconnect and remove the old unit. Certified technicians will recover any remaining refrigerant from the system and then disconnect the electrical connections, refrigerant lines, and other components.

Disposal and Recycling

Once the system has been removed, the HVAC company will dispose of the old AC responsibly. Metal components are typically recycled, and reputable HVAC companies typically haul away the old equipment.

Installing the New AC System

Now that the old AC has been removed, it’s time to install the new system.

Installing the Indoor Components

HVAC technicians will start by installing the new indoor air handler or evaporator coil. Then they will properly position the unit to ensure adequate airflow and clearance for future maintenance access. The system will then be connected to your existing ductwork.

Installing the Outdoor Condenser Unit

The outdoor condenser unit is then installed on a concrete pad outside your home. Technicians will check to make sure the unit is balanced and has clearance on all sides for proper airflow. The condenser is secured and leveled before connections are made.

Refrigerant Line Connections

Once the indoor and outdoor units are in place, the HVAC technicians will connect the refrigerant lines. Refrigerant lines will be routed, insulated, and secured to protect them from any damage. Lines will be tested for leaks before they are charged with refrigerant.

Electrical System Connections

Then, your new AC will be connected to your electrical supply. The HVAC technicians will handle making connections at the air handler and condenser unit. They will also verify that your electrical panel can support the new system.

Ductwork Inspection and Modifications

Sometimes, your home’s ductwork may need modifications to support your new AC system.

Checking Existing Ductwork

HVAC technicians will inspect your existing ductwork to make sure it is compatible with your new AC and doesn't show signs of damage. They will check for signs of leaks, disconnected sections, inadequate insulation, and airflow restrictions. These issues reduce performance and may require modifications or repairs.

Recommended Improvements

If they notice any issues, the HVAC technicians will recommend improvements before your new AC is in service. Common recommendations include sealing leaky joints, repairing damaged sections, adding insulation, or resizing ducts. Addressing ductwork issues helps your AC run efficiently from day one.

Thermostat Installation and Setup

Next, the technicians will connect your thermostat and show you how to use it. They will mount and wire your new thermostat, if needed, and connect it to your new AC system. They will walk you through the basic controls and settings to ensure you know how to operate it.

System Testing and Performance Verification

After the system has been installed and the thermostat is set up, the HVAC technicians will run a few tests to ensure reliable operation.

Refrigerant Charge Testing

The HVAC professionals will verify that the refrigerant charge is at the level specified by the manufacturer. When refrigerant levels are too high or too low, they can impact efficiency, strain the compressor, and shorten the system’s lifespan.

Airflow and Temperature Checks

Next, the technicians will test for proper airflow and measure temperature output to confirm that the AC is performing as expected. They will check to ensure supply and return vents are open and make any adjustments to optimize airflow.

Safety Inspections

The HVAC technicians will complete a final safety inspection to verify electrical connections are secure, confirm refrigerant lines aren’t leaking, check that the condensate drain is flowing properly, and the system is operating safely.

Final Walkthrough with the Homeowner

Lastly, the HVAC crew will conduct a final walkthrough, so you understand how to operate your newly installed air conditioning system.

Operating Instructions

They will provide thermostat operating instructions and troubleshooting tips. Also, HVAC technicians will offer air filter replacement guidance for optimal efficiency.

Maintenance Recommendations

The HVAC professionals will also outline the recommended air conditioner maintenance schedule for your new system. They will share the importance of seasonal tune-ups and keeping outdoor units clean.

Warranty Information

Finally, they will share the warranty information on your new AC and explain how to file a claim.

How Long Does AC Installation Take?

AC installation generally only takes one day to complete. If ductwork modifications are required, the timeline may extend by a couple of days. At G&G Heating and Air Conditioning, we will provide a transparent time estimate for your new AC installation.

Contact Us

If you are interested in getting a new AC installed at your home, contact us at (360) 499-6604 today. We’re the experts in air conditioners and provide high-quality installation services in Olympia and Tumwater, WA.

Call us today or book online!