Are you tired of dealing with summer heat and humidity making your living spaces uncomfortable? A new AC installation can fill your property with chilled, conditioned air. If your property already has an air conditioner that lacks cooling system efficiency, it may be time to replace it with a modern unit.
So, how long does it take to install an AC unit? The following guide explains the air conditioner installation process and the factors that influence the project duration.
The Importance of Expert HVAC System Replacement
Installing an air conditioning unit isn’t a do-it-yourself project. Relevant expertise in HVAC installation and replacement is necessary to ensure the new system offers optimal performance, energy efficiency, and system longevity. Proper installation is also essential to reduce the risk of common cooling issues such as uneven cooling and excessive noise.
Average AC Installation Time
How long does it take to install an AC unit? A typical installation takes around four to eight hours. The timeframe for replacing a cooling system ranges from two to eight hours, depending on the complexity of the job and the size of the unit.
Factors That Contribute to the Air Conditioner Replacement Timeframe
The reason the timeframe for upgrading air conditioning varies so much is that multiple factors contribute to the project’s overall timeline. The most common contributing factors to air conditioner installation timelines include the following:
Square Footage of Home
One of the most significant factors affecting the time it takes to upgrade a cooling system is the size of the property. Larger homes typically require larger cooling units, which take more time to install.
Unit Location
Although popular AC placement tips suggest putting an air conditioner on a dedicated circuit away from the home’s trash bins, your equipment placement can still cause project delays. Accessibility issues like fenced-in areas, tight spaces and high-rise structures can increase the project’s timeline.
Unit Type
Do you want a centralized cooling system or prefer the personalization of zoned cooling? Your choice can affect the time it takes to install your new equipment.
Split air conditioning systems have an outdoor condenser unit and an indoor air handler with an evaporator coil. However, if you choose a ductless mini-split, you only need to install the compact components, eliminating the need for a large air handler and ductwork. Opting for a ductless mini-split will likely shave time off of your cooling system replacement.
System Size
Skilled HVAC technicians can usually install smaller cooling units faster than larger ones. Yet, pre-existing infrastructure in good condition, including air ducts and electrical systems, can further simplify the process.
Replacing Versus Installing a New Air Conditioner
Are you installing an air conditioner in your home for the first time or upgrading existing equipment? The answer will impact how quickly the technicians can get your new system up and running.
Typically, replacing a cooling unit is a faster process because most of the components are already in place. The exception to this rule is if you intend to change how you cool your home. For instance, the technicians may need more installation time if you switch from a ductless mini-split to a centralized unit and your home lacks sufficient ductwork.
What To Expect From Professional Installation
Knowing the answer to “How long does it take to install an AC unit?” will help you prepare for the service. Knowing what to expect on the day of installation is also beneficial.
Removing Old Equipment
After the installers arrive, they will lay drop cloths around the work area to protect your property from damage. If you have an existing system, the team will assess it to determine the best way to get it out of the house. If nothing is in place, they’ll move to the next step.
Once they form a plan, the contractors will shut off power to the air conditioner. If necessary, they’ll capture the cooling unit’s refrigerant which could take up to two hours. This step is essential because refrigerant is hazardous to the environment; however, HVAC technicians can safely collect and dispose of it.
After removing the refrigerant, the team will disconnect and dismantle the equipment. The crew will remove the old outdoor and indoor units, along with their line set. This process could take another hour to complete.
Installing New System
With the old system out of the way, the HVAC technicians will bring in the new cooling system. The outdoor unit will go on a leveled pad outside. Indoors, the team will either connect a new evaporator coil to the furnace’s air handler or install an air handler, which can take up to an hour and a half.
Then, the team will run a new line set between the indoor and outdoor units and connect all wiring. Afterward, the professionals will release the system’s refrigerant and pressurize it. Getting the equipment to the manufacturer’s specifications can take one to two hours.
Finally, the technicians will commission the new air conditioning unit. This step ensures that the equipment is fully functional and running optimally.
How To Prepare for an Air Conditioning Installation or Replacement
What can you do to prepare for your new air conditioner? Your first step is to contact a local HVAC contractor to evaluate your property’s cooling needs.
Then, on the day of service, you should:
- Clear obstacles from the worksite.
- Secure pets and children from the work area.
- Confirm that the contractor has the necessary permits.
- Review the installation plan with the technicians.
Let Our HVAC Experts Handle Your Air Conditioner Setup
How long does it take to install an AC unit? In most cases, the project can take four to eight hours to complete. However, the type of system you pick, your home’s square footage and other factors will impact the time it takes for technicians to complete the project.
If you have questions about AC installation costs or if you’re ready to upgrade your cooling equipment, turn to Cooper’s Plumbing & Air in Tallahassee, Florida. Our licensed technicians have years of experience providing top-notch HVAC solutions.
To schedule an appointment, call Cooper’s Plumbing & Air at (866) 464-7132.