Skip to Content
Top

6 Common Mistakes with AC Installations to Avoid for Homeowners

technician working on ac unit

Air conditioning is critical if your family is going to enjoy quality air. About 87 percent of American homes have air conditioning equipment. Moreover, ACs consume about 12 percent of the home’s total expenditure on energy.

A high-quality central AC system can supply air to the whole house, unlike box fans. AC units come with a thermostat for temperature control. They also purify air to remove dust and allergens. That’s why AC units are a great option for people managing asthma.

However, there are some mistakes with AC installations to avoid if you want your unit to function optimally. Making these mistakes can lead to hiked energy bills or expensive future repairs.

This article highlights the prevalent mistakes to avoid when installing AC units.

1. Thermostat Mistakes With AC Installations

Placing your thermostat incorrectly can lead to excess energy bills. This is because the thermostat regulates the amount of power utilized by the central AC system. That means you shouldn’t place your thermostat around heat sources such as radiators or light bulbs.

Having your thermostat next to a heat source will prompt the AC unit to work overtime.

2. Insufficient Insulation

Professional AC installation service entails proper insulation for a good reason. Adequate insulation protects the unit from cold air leakage. Otherwise, your outdoor AC unit will either provide insufficient cooling or break down completely.

Ensure you use the right-sized insulation ducts to avoid these mistakes with AC installations.

3. Choosing the Wrong Size AC

The notion that a bigger outdoor AC unit will cool your home properly is very wrong. In fact, an oversized unit can lead to serious structural damage to your property. Moreover, it will be pretty expensive in terms of acquisition and maintenance costs.

Engage your technician to help you choose the right AC size for your home.

4. Choosing the Wrong AC Unit Position

Just like the thermostat, you must position your AC system correctly for the unit to function optimally. For an outdoor AC unit, you should position it in a relatively shady area. Exposing the AC to sunlight can damage the unit’s condensers.

Also, you must ensure enough clearance around the unit, typically five feet away from trees or hedges. If you don’t leave enough clearance, the unit will overwork, resulting in high energy costs.

5. Failure to Check Refrigerant Leaks

The refrigerator is the most critical component of your AC unit. Some installations can be quite messy, causing punctures on the refrigerator. This may cause it to leak. Thus, you need to inspect the refrigerator immediately after installing the unit.

Even better, you can call a professional HVAC technician to do the inspection and determine what causes the AC to leak.

6. Installing the Unit Without an Expert’s Assistance

Even though most central AC systems come with installation guides, it’s still prudent to involve a professional AC installation service. You can miss some steps if you do it yourself. Moreover, you’ll incur expensive repair costs if the installation job blows up.

Get in Touch With a Professional HVAC Technician

Avoiding these mistakes with AC installations will save you a lot of time and money. For instance, your unit will consume power efficiently. It will also last longer, prolonging its lifespan.

Contact us today if you need assistance with installing AC units in Oklahoma.