Air conditioning installation is an important home improvement, and one that will help you save money and improve your comfort. It can also add measurable value to your home. However, like any major investment, it’s important to carefully consider your options and shop around. Here are some things to keep in mind when selecting your next AC unit and negotiating with your contractor.
An in-home estimate is a great place to start when comparing companies. An experienced professional will walk through your home and collect vital information, such as how your existing system is set up. This will help them provide you with an accurate proposal and avoid unexpected costs. If you’re going to have ductwork work done during the air conditioning installation, make sure your pro has extensive experience with this type of project.
Before beginning the installation, your professional should thoroughly test your existing system to ensure that it’s properly sized for your home. This involves performing a manual J load calculation, which determines your home’s heating and cooling loads. You should consider moving on to another contractor if the technician doesn’t plan to perform this assessment. It’s a critical step that limits surprise costs and ensures your new air conditioner will perform well for years to come.
A quality AC company will take care to properly dispose of your old air conditioner and will typically include this service in the price of a new installation. Getting rid of an older unit isn’t as simple as just pulling it out of the window, as there are refrigerant lines and electrical wires that must be disconnected and carefully recycled. It’s also a good idea to hire a professional for this step, as improper refrigerant recycling could lead to environmental and legal consequences.
Once the installer has removed the old air conditioner and made sure to recover any refrigerant left in the system, they’ll start connecting your new unit. The outdoor condenser is placed on a composite pad, and the technicians will attach a line set and service rod that connects to the unit’s valve. Then, the copper lines and power cables will be run through a hole in your home’s wall and securely connected to the indoor evaporator coil. Once connected, the installer will open and close your air conditioner’s service valve to ensure that it’s working properly.
Remember that anyone handling refrigerant or equipment containing refrigerant must have an individual EPA certification. This is a critical step that many homeowners forget about, and it’s a crucial reason why you should always let a licensed air conditioning company handle your AC installation. This ensures that every member of the team is fully trained and qualified to handle the process without risking contamination or accidental spills. In addition, most HVAC professionals offer maintenance plans for their installed systems, so they’re familiar with your new equipment and can easily check in on its condition as needed. The best part is, a professional can handle this process quickly and efficiently, saving you time and frustration.