Getting a new air conditioning unit installed is exciting. You’re looking forward to those cool, comfortable summers without sweating through your T-shirt indoors. But hold on—before you dive into the process, there are some common AC installation mistakes that homeowners (and even some contractors) make that can lead to inefficiency, higher energy bills, and even damage to your unit. Whether you’re considering AC installation from Glendale, WI, or anywhere else, avoiding these pitfalls will ensure your cooling system runs efficiently for years to come.
1. Choosing the Wrong Size AC Unit
One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is selecting an air conditioner that’s either too big or too small for their space. A unit that’s too large will cycle on and off too frequently, leading to unnecessary wear and tear. On the flip side, an undersized unit will struggle to cool your home, running continuously and driving up energy costs.
How to Avoid It: Work with a professional HVAC technician who can perform a proper load calculation, considering factors like your home’s square footage, insulation, window placement, and climate.
2. Poor Placement of the AC Unit
Where you install your AC unit matters more than you might think. If it’s installed in direct sunlight, it will have to work harder to cool the air. If it’s placed near shrubs, fences, or other obstructions, airflow can be restricted, reducing efficiency. Indoors, improperly placing the thermostat near a heat source (like a window or kitchen) can cause the system to overwork unnecessarily.
How to Avoid It: Ensure the outdoor unit is placed in a shaded, well-ventilated area, and keep at least two feet of clearance around it. Indoors, place the thermostat in a central, shaded area away from heat-producing appliances.
3. Incorrect Refrigerant Levels
Too much or too little refrigerant can wreak havoc on your AC system. Incorrect levels lead to inefficient cooling, higher energy consumption, and can even damage the compressor.
How to Avoid It: Hire a certified technician to install your unit and ensure they check the refrigerant levels according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
4. Skipping the Ductwork Inspection
If you’re replacing an old AC unit but keeping your existing ductwork, you might run into efficiency problems. Leaky, clogged, or improperly sized ducts can significantly reduce cooling efficiency, leading to uneven temperatures and wasted energy.
How to Avoid It: Before installing your new AC, have an HVAC professional inspect and seal your ductwork to ensure optimal airflow.
5. Ignoring Proper Insulation and Sealing
Even the best AC unit can’t perform efficiently if your home isn’t properly insulated. Gaps in doors, windows, and poor attic insulation can let cool air escape, forcing your AC to work overtime.
How to Avoid It: Before installation, check for any drafts, gaps, or insufficient insulation, and seal them properly. This will help your AC work more effectively and reduce energy costs.
6. Not Checking Electrical Requirements
Air conditioners require a specific electrical setup, and if your home’s electrical system isn’t up to the task, you might experience frequent circuit breaker trips or even damage to your unit.
How to Avoid It: Before installing your AC, have an electrician or HVAC technician inspect your electrical system to ensure it can handle the load.
7. Installing the AC at the Wrong Tilt
Your outdoor condenser unit needs to be level. If it’s installed at an angle, it can cause drainage issues, leading to water buildup, mold growth, or even damage to the unit itself.
How to Avoid It: Make sure your HVAC technician installs the outdoor unit on a stable, level surface, such as a concrete pad.
8. Not Testing the System After Installation
It’s shocking how often an AC unit is installed without a thorough test to ensure everything is running smoothly. Some homeowners assume everything is fine once the system powers on, only to discover problems later.
How to Avoid It: After installation, request a full system test from your technician. They should check airflow, refrigerant levels, thermostat settings, and overall performance.
9. Failing to Schedule Regular Maintenance
Even if your AC is installed perfectly, neglecting maintenance can lead to problems down the road. Dust, dirt, and debris can build up, reducing efficiency and potentially leading to costly repairs.
How to Avoid It: Schedule routine maintenance, including filter changes, coil cleaning, and refrigerant checks, at least once a year.
10. Hiring an Unqualified Installer
The biggest mistake you can make? Hiring someone who doesn’t know what they’re doing. A poorly installed AC can lead to inefficiency, higher bills, and a shortened lifespan for your unit.
How to Avoid It: Always hire a licensed, experienced HVAC professional for AC installation. If you’re in need of AC installation from Glendale, WI, be sure to check reviews, ask for references, and verify credentials before hiring a contractor.
Final Thoughts
A well-installed air conditioner can provide years of comfort, energy efficiency, and peace of mind. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your investment in a new AC system is worth every penny. Whether you’re getting AC installation from Glendale, WI, or anywhere else, take the time to research, hire qualified professionals, and follow best practices. You’ll thank yourself when you’re enjoying cool, comfortable summers without the headache of constant repairs or sky-high energy bills!