In the United States, the need for HVAC equipment is around $20.4 billion each year.
Air conditioners can last a long time but they’re bound to stop working at one point or another. Once that happens, you’ll have to replace the entire system.
If you’re thinking of handling the AC installation yourself, then you should be aware that it isn’t as simple as you might think. Understanding AC installation requires the attention of a professional to ensure everything is done the correct way.
Do you think that it can’t be all that difficult? Then let’s take a look at the most common AC installation mistakes that can happen:
Poor Drainage System
When an air conditioner runs, it creates a large amount of moisture. If there isn’t a way to filter the moisture away, you can end up with water damage to your home. This can lead to damaged drywall, mold, and clogged pipes.
Creating a poor drainage system is one of the more common mistakes that people make. It’s an overlooked aspect that’s easy to forget in the midst of installing.
Wrong Size AC
Bigger isn’t always better. At least, not if it doesn’t suit the size of your home.
One of the top AC installation tips out there is to make sure that its size reflects the size of your home. If you get an AC that’s too big for your home, it’ll lead to short cycling. If it’s too small, you could end up with it overworking itself.
Whether you get an AC too big or too small, both are bad. This causes wear and tear on the unit, which can result in it biting the dust at a premature date.
When looking at an AC unit, you should look at a BTU calculator. A BTU calculator will allow you to enter in the dimensions of the rooms within your home. The calculator then determines how many BTUs your home requires.
Once you know how many BTUs you need, you can then shop around for an air conditioner that can produce that number.
Thermostat Not Positioned Right
Many people don’t realize that where the thermostat is has an effect on how the HVAC system operates. If a thermostat isn’t in the right area, then it will have inconsistencies in its monitoring of the temperature.
First, the thermostat should never be in a spot where it sits in direct sunlight. Sunlight shining on the thermostat can cause the system to think it’s warmer than it actually is. This will lead to the AC system creating the incorrect temperature for your entire home.
Second, the thermostat also needs to be in an area away from doors and windows. Drafts can cause the AC to think it’s either warmer or colder than it actually is. Again, this will lead to the wrong desired temperature for your home.
The most ideal location for a thermostat is in a hallway or corridor. Be sure to make sure there aren’t any air vents nearby that could blow on the thermostat.
You want to make sure the thermostat is in a spot where the temperature will stay regulated. This will help the thermostat gather an accurate reading and help the AC unit operate with efficiency.
Ductwork Not Sealed
Another common mistake is not sealing the ductwork of the AC unit well. If the ductwork has been improperly sealed, then the AC won’t be able to operate at peak efficiency.
In fact, you’ll lose a huge percentage of airflow through the cracks in the ducts. If you’re losing air through the cracks, then the unit won’t be able to cool the rooms of your home as intended.
When looking at the ductwork, there should not be any noticeable cracks at all. If you notice any cracks, they should be closed up using a permanent sealer.
AC Unit Not Positioned Right
As with the thermostat, the AC unit itself must be in an ideal area as well. If the AC unit is in a spot that doesn’t suit, then you’ll soon have issues with functionality and energy efficiency.
Where should the AC unit go? The ideal location will be shaded or have limited direct sunlight.
You also want to make sure the unit isn’t crowded by bushes or trees. If the AC unit doesn’t have the necessary clearance, then it is going to struggle with airflow. This means the unit works harder, thus draining more energy and costing you more on your utility bill.
Refrigerant Line Not Insulated
An AC unit must use refrigerant, which is a liquid-gas, to operate. This refrigerant goes from the condenser all the way to the AC’s interior workings. It uses what’s known as a “refrigerant line” to make this journey.
The refrigerant line starts outside, meaning it is exposed to all the elements. This is why it requires insulation.
When you fail to insulate the refrigerant line, it can cause energy efficiency problems. On top of that, it places strain on the operation of the AC.
Without insulation, your refrigerant line is more likely to suffer damage. This can lead to a refrigerant leak. Should the AC unit run out of refrigerant, it will cease creating cool air. There’s nothing worse than your air conditioner not blowing cool air on a sweltering summer day.
Condenser In the Wrong Spot
The condenser in the AC is a vital component of the unit’s overall operation. The less work the condenser must do, the better the AC until will operate. This translates to better energy savings and the AC unit’s overall lifespan lasting far longer.
The condenser should be put in an area where it’ll be out of direct sunlight. The less sunlight that shines on the condenser, the less it will struggle to work. So, when installing the condenser, be sure to place it in a spot where it will have shade.
Use a Professional for AC Installation
As you can see, there is a whole host of considerations to take into account for AC installation. There are many issues you can run into if you make even the slightest error. This is why it’s best to leave AC installation up to an expert with years of experience under their belt.
If you need help with AC installation, then AirPro Experts can help. AirPro Experts is family-owned and has 25 years of experience in installing air conditioning systems.
Make an online booking today to schedule an appointment!
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