If you are considering the install of a new air conditioning system in your home, whether it is the first system or a replacement for your old unit, proper installation is vital. While some advocate DIY installation, it is important to consider that relying on professional expertise will allow you access to the latest installation techniques and technological advances. It is common for amateurs to practice techniques which are out of date and could lead to an inefficient or ineffective air conditioning system.
Common Errors in Air Conditioning Installation:
Choosing inexperienced professional or relying on an amateur could result in some common air conditioning installation errors. These include:
Overcharged Refrigerant: Air conditioning units come with a specific amount of refrigerant. This charge needs to be perfectly calculated for optimum performance. While the charge can’t be too low, it is common for those who are inexperienced to overcharge the unit. This can alter the internal pressure of the unit, which can cause damage to the compressor and other vital components.
Overlong Pipes: Between the indoor and outdoor units of your air conditioning system are copper refrigerant lines. These lines should have a maximum length of fifty feet. If the lines are overly long, it makes it difficult for a complete refrigerant cycle. This will force the compressor to operate continuously, placing additional strain on the component and the system.
Poor Unit Placement: While you cannot place the outdoor unit too far away from the house as it would mean having overly long pipes, you also cannot place the unit too close to the home. The ideal unit placement allows for two feet of clear space on all sides of the appliance. This will allow proper air circulation to avoid the function of the unit being compromised.
The Consequences of Poor Air Conditioning Installation:
There are a number of adverse effects of your new air conditioning system being poorly installed. The most obvious is that it will not operate as efficiently as it should. Many people upgrade their air conditioning to benefit from the improved energy efficiency of new technologies. Unfortunately, even if you buy the most energy efficient system on the market, if it is poorly installed you will not enjoy fantastic energy savings.
Another consequence of a poor installation is that the new system will not deliver the desired results. You may find that your system fails to cool the home properly. You may have hot spots in different areas of the home, or the desired temperature cannot be properly maintained.
Additionally, poor installation can compromise the lifespan of the system. With the excess strain on each component, you may find that the system suffers breakdown issues and part failures after a relatively short time. This will eventually lead to a cascade failure and prompt the need for a replacement system.
While saving a few dollars on installation charges may seem like a good idea, it could end up costing you thousands in the long run. An experienced professional can ensure that your new system is properly installed and operating at peak efficiency. This will provide the desired comfort levels and prolong the lifespan of the system.