Installing a new air conditioning system is a major investment, costing several thousand dollars. Whether you’re replacing an old air conditioner or installing one for the first time, it’s important to understand the installation process and what goes into choosing the right unit. Knowing the basics can help you feel more informed and confident about the work being done in your home.
How Do I Know I Need a New Air Conditioner?
An air conditioning system’s lifespan is 15 to 20 years. If your current unit is around that age, it is likely time to buy a new one. Frequent repairs are another indicator that your air conditioner’s time is coming to an end. Other signs include unpleasant odors, strange noises, physical damage, poor air quality, and high humidity in your house, as well as higher-than-normal utility costs. Your unit may also stop working completely, blow little to no air, or release only warm air.
When Is the Best Time To Install a New Air Conditioner?
Spring is the best time to install an air conditioner. This allows us to install your new unit and get it up and running before you need it for summer. Consider calling us in early spring in case the hot temperatures arrive early.
Do I Need a Professional To Install My Air Conditioner?
We recommend a professional air conditioner installation. This ensures you get the right unit for your home, that it’s installed, and that it will keep you cool throughout the summer. It also adheres to the manufacturer’s warranty, which states that a professional must perform any installations or repairs for the warranty to remain valid.
How Much Does the New Air Conditioner Cost?
Air conditioners can cost several thousand dollars, but the exact amount depends on the model you choose. Be sure to factor in added costs, such as labor. We offer free estimates on new system installations so you can prepare.
Won’t Installing It Myself Save Me Money?
Many homeowners assume that installing the air conditioner themselves will save them money, but it’s often the opposite. System installations are complex, and the units must meet specific standards. It’s easy for those who aren’t trained to make mistakes. At that point, a few of our technicians will need to complete the installation and repair any damage.
Additionally, since a DIY installation usually voids the manufacturer’s warranty, any future necessary repairs will need to be paid out of pocket, even if they fall under the initial warranty timeframe.
Are All Air Conditioners the Same Size?
Residential air conditioners are available in seven sizes, starting at 1.5 tons and going up to 5 tons, with a different size available in increments of 0.5 tons. The lowest rating (1.5) is for homes with the smallest square footage, while the highest rating (5) is for those with the most.
What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?
The size you need depends on your home’s square footage. An oversized unit will strain itself and raise your utility bills. You’ll also encounter many problems with an undersized unit, including high utility bills, short cycling, poor indoor air quality, and the inability to cool your home. Our technicians can help you choose the right-sized unit for your space.
Do I Have To Remove the Old Air Conditioner Myself?
We recommend that you not remove the old air conditioner yourself. You can get injured in the process, and it could also cause damage to the unit and your home. Our technicians remove the old unit for you as part of the installation process, before we install the new one. This also gives us a chance to inspect the area where the previous unit was sitting to ensure it can support the new air conditioner.
What Does the Technician Do During the Installation?
The process starts by inspecting the current setup, including your ductwork, to determine if any repairs, changes, or additions are needed before proceeding with the installation. Once everything checks out, our team removes the old unit, installs the new one, calibrates the thermostat, and evaluates its operation to ensure everything works.
How Long Does the Installation Take?
An installation takes several hours. It may take more than a day if you need any repairs or modifications before we can install the new system. Please plan so that you are not without proper cooling, especially if the hot temperatures are already on the way.
Some homeowners stay elsewhere for a night or two during the installation if the temperatures are hot and humid. The system won’t be operational during the process, and it can become uncomfortable and unsafe in the home without adequate air conditioning.
Should I Be Home During the Installation?
Yes, you or another adult should be at home during the installation. This makes the process easier if we have any questions or need to access certain areas of the home. It will also allow us to show you the final results and how to operate the unit.
Is There Anything I Should Do To Prepare for Installation Day?
It is important to ensure that the work areas are clear during the process for safety purposes and to prevent any damage. This includes removing any greenery blocking the outdoor unit, such as low-hanging branches or overgrown grass and plants. There must be at least three feet of clearance around all sides of the unit so that nothing blocks the airflow and prevents the system from operating.
We also recommend ensuring that your pets are in a safe place away from the work area. This helps prevent dangerous situations, such as a pet escaping out the door or getting in the way of the technicians.
Will the Technician Make Sure the Air Conditioner Works Before Leaving?
Before leaving the property, we inspect the air conditioner, including the thermostat. Our clients count on us to provide high-quality service, and that’s exactly what we deliver with every project. We’re also available to answer any questions and show you how to use the system. If our team installs a smart thermostat with your unit, we can show you how to manage it right from your smartphone.
Is a New Air Conditioner More Energy Efficient?
New air conditioners are more energy-efficient than their older counterparts. Paying attention to the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2 (SEER2) rating is important to understand how energy-efficient your new unit is. Montana is in the “North Region” for SEER2 ratings, which means the lowest AC rating must be 13.4. We can help you choose the best one that keeps your utility bills as low as possible, maintains your preferred indoor temperature, and fits within your budget.
Stay cool and comfortable with a new air conditioner. Central Heating & Air Conditioning in Billings, MT, provides high-quality installation services. Our AC services company also provides maintenance and repairs to ensure your comfort system remains in its best condition all year long.
Contact Central Heating & Air Conditioning today to schedule an air conditioner installation at your home.
