AC Installations, Air Conditioners, Air Quality, Home Comfort, Indoor Air Quality
Welcome to the Action Furnace blog, where in today’s post we’ll go over common AC installation mistakes and how to avoid them. From common issues to the importance of professional installation and maintenance, we’ve got you covered.
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Choosing and installing a new AC is a big investment in your home’s comfort, but it can quickly turn into a big headache if not done right. From improper sizing to poor placement, common installation mistakes can lead to inefficiency, frequent repairs and breakdowns, and a shortened lifespan.
In this blog we’ll do a deep dive into these pitfalls and explain how you can avoid them by choosing reputable, professional installers who get the job done right the first time, ensuring sustained comfort this summer and beyond!
Action Furnace is leading the way in AC installation techniques and our Home Comfort Advisors have perfected the design and set up of modern, high-efficiency air conditioning systems. We’re proud to provide world class service in Alberta. Let’s begin!
Mistake #1 - Choosing The Wrong Size Unit
Air conditioners that are not properly sized for your home will struggle to cool it effectively, leading to inefficiencies, increased wear and tear and overall discomfort.
In order for an AC to be sized properly, your installer will need to take thorough measurements of not only your home’s square footage, but also ceiling height, window size and location and insulation.
It’s also a good idea to have your ducts inspected to check for leaks or debris build up that could further hinder the performance of your new equipment.
Mistake #2 - Ignoring SEER Ratings
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is an important factor when considering what type of air conditioner to choose.
The rating measures the efficiency of the AC, specifically the amount of cooling output divided by energy input over a typical cooling season. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the equipment.
A low rated AC will consume more power to effectively cool your home, driving up your utility costs over time, especially during Alberta’s hot summer months. Investing in a higher rated AC may come with a higher upfront cost, but the energy savings over time make it well worth it.
It’s also important to note that the SEER rating should align with both the local climate and your personal energy usage goals. For example, summers don’t tend to last that long here, but boy are they hot! So you want an AC that is strong enough to handle our peak temperatures without wasting energy. A unit with a SEER rating between 14 and 18 is usually sufficient for us. Additionally, consider your usage habits. If you like to have your AC on full blast 24/7, a higher SEER rating will help keep costs down over time.
A proper installation technician will always take SEER ratings into account when recommending equipment options for you.
Mistake #3 - Poor Installation Location
The location of your air conditioner’s outdoor unit is critical for its performance and longevity. For example, placing it in an area with poor air circulation can cause it to work harder and components to overheat. Similarly if it’s installed in areas with direct sunlight. Areas with lots of debris such as leaves, dirt and other landscaping can easily clog the unit’s coils and filters leading to inefficiency and repairs.
These conditions not only decrease your AC’s cooling capacity but also greatly increase the risk for full system breakdown and replacement.
A reputable cooling technician will ensure that all components of your central AC system are positioned for optimal performance and energy efficiency. They will:
- Place the outdoor unit in a spacious shaded area away from direct sunlight for optimal air circulation and cooling.
- Install your equipment on a stable, flat surface such as a concrete pad or mounting brackets to prevent vibrations and ensure proper drainage.
- Keep the area free of debris by offering helpful cleaning tips, or recommending a breathable cover.
- The indoor unit will be placed in a central location to ensure even distribution of cold air. They’ll avoid placing it in isolated rooms or corners where air circulation might be limited.
- Ensure the indoor unit is easily accessible for regular maintenance and tune-ups, such as filter changes or refrigerant level checks, which are important for continued operation.
Consulting with a professional technician who understands the specific needs of your home can help you make the best installation choices.
Mistake #4 - Incorrect Refrigerant Charging
Incorrect refrigerant levels during installation can have a significant impact on your cooling comfort.
If the refrigerant level is too low it cannot effectively absorb and transfer heat, leading to longer run times and higher energy consumption. On the flip side, if the refrigerant is too high it can create a high pressure scenario within the system leading to increased wear and tear.
Poor refrigerant levels have also been linked to compressor damage, frozen evaporator coils and even leaks, so professional installation and maintenance is key.
Mistake #5 - Poor Insulation & Sealing
Poor insulation around your home and even your ductwork post-install will greatly affect your AC’s cooling performance, as even the biggest and most powerful AC’s are nothing in comparison to an air leak.
A certified installation technician will always inspect your insulation and ducts before and after installation to ensure there’s no chance of air escaping during operation.
Speaking of duct work, we want to take this time to remind you about scheduling regular duct cleanings throughout the lifespan of your AC for sustained performance and longevity. It helps improve your indoor air quality and the efficiency of your system, while minimizing the potential for dust and other contaminants to circulate throughout your home.
Once your cleaning is complete, it's easier to identify and address any signs of damage or air leaks, helping keep everything running smoothly.
Mistake #6 - Overlooking the Thermostat
When installing a new AC, it’s common to forget about upgrading its control hub - the thermostat. Thermostat issues during installation can lead to improper system operation. Here are some of the most common issues that a trained technician should be aware of: incorrect placement, faulty wiring, incompatibility with your new AC, calibration issues, incorrect settings and even battery issues.
Ensuring your installation technician addresses these issues will greatly reduce discomfort and inconsistent cooling.
DIY Installation Risks
Air conditioner installation is complex and requires the correct tools and equipment in order to ensure performance and safety. DIY work also could void your warranty, meaning any repairs after installation are now coming out of your pocket.
We never recommend embarking on installation by yourself. Always choose professional cooling technicians who are well versed in industry standards and compliance.
Like us!
Why Choose Action Furnace
When purchasing your new home cooling system it’s critical to get the right sized unit and have it installed to the highest standards, so count on the Home Comfort Advisors at Action Furnace!
Our exceptionally friendly, well-trained and highly skilled technicians know all the ins and outs of AC installation. Before being allowed on our installation team, our technicians are required to complete a comprehensive 14 month apprenticeship program in order to meet our rigorous standards.
Here’s what you can expect when you call us in:
Evaluation
When you book your AC installation with Action Furnace, your personal Home Comfort Advisor will come to your home to begin the evaluation process.
During your evaluation your advisor will thoroughly examine your existing unit (if applicable), the size of your home and estimate the amount of usage in order to quickly determine the best options for your home.
Your Advisor will take through measurements of the square footage of your home, your windows and inspect all registers and ducts.
They will then present your comprehensive quote.
Recommendation
Our Home Comfort Advisors guarantee to have your detailed quote delivered to you no later than 24 hours after your initial evaluation.
All recommendations are fully explained and consider your home’s efficiency, size and power needs. We will also go over our most popular AC units, and any special features.
Finally with Action Furnace’s No Surprise Guarantee the investment quoted is what you will pay. No additional charges during or after installation.
Installation
We have a large inventory of air conditioners, and once your quote is approved our team can get right to work, scheduling a time for your installation that works for your schedule.
Your technician will arrive at the predetermined time and install your new air conditioner within 8 hours. Our team is dedicated to providing you clean and respectful service and will complete your installation with minimal interruption to your day to day life.
Our installation technicians are the best in skill attitude and workmanship. They will care for your home and complete the job with speed and precision. If they have not performed in accordance with these high standards, we will provide you with 1 year free club membership at no charge.
Once your installation is complete, your technician will connect and troubleshoot your new air conditioner to ensure it is running properly and efficiently. Finally they will walk you through the operation, features and any warranties.
We’re also proud to offer real guarantees and warranties to back up our work!
Become A Member Today!
As briefly mentioned before, your new air conditioner requires regular maintenance to function at its very best. While you can do many simple maintenance tasks yourself, such as changing filters, some should only be done by our professionals.
Enter the Comfort Club, where we help make annual maintenance a little bit easier! For one low monthly price your AC tune-ups will be prescheduled and you’ll enjoy front of the line, priority service, 50% off diagnostic fees and 10% off any future repairs. Talk to your installation technician to learn more, or call our friendly customer service team!
Don’t let a poorly installed air conditioner be the weak link in your summer comfort. By being aware of these common installation issues, and choosing the right technician, you can ensure your AC runs smoothly and efficiently all season long!
We’ve installed over 30,000 AC units since 1975, so you can trust we have the experience to get the job done right. AC equipment starts as low as $12/week, contact us today!
Frequently Asked Questions About AC Installation
How is an AC installed?
Our technicians go through a careful process including:
- Running ducts
- Installing a condenser unit
- Connecting new equipment to your existing system
- And testing to ensure functionality.
How long does AC installation take?
No two installations are exactly the same, however we always aim to complete your installation as efficiently and professionally as possible, with little to no impact on your daily routines.
How long will a new AC unit last?
You can expect a well-maintained unit to keep you cool for up to 15 years. Our AC installations are completed with precise attention to detail and designed to maximum equipment lifespan.
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