AC Installation: Avoiding Common Pitfalls

An AC that is properly installed optimises comfort, saves energy costs and extends the unit’s lifespan. Homeowners often face challenges such as selecting the wrong AC unit size, poor placement, inadequate insulation and overlooking critical technical requirements. These common errors can increase energy bills, frequent repairs and even complete system failures.

This blog post aims to give you the necessary knowledge to avoid these pitfalls. By highlighting the most common mistakes and providing expert tips, we guide you through the process to ensure a smooth and successful AC installation.

Avoiding common AC installation mistakes

One of the key factors in ensuring your air conditioning system operates efficiently and lasts for years is avoiding common installation mistakes, such as the ones below:

• Poor unit placement. This can severely impact its effectiveness; for instance, placing an outdoor unit incorrectly can result in insufficient airflow, causing it to overheat and work harder than necessary. Incorrect mounting can have excessive vibration reducing the life of your system.
• Incorrect duct sizing. Ducts that are too small can restrict airflow, causing strain on the system and reducing efficiency, while ducts that are too large will result in poor air distribution and wasted energy.
• Inadequate ductwork insulation. This can lead to significant energy losses, especially if routing is incorrect. Often poorly insulated ductwork in the Queensland environment leads to ongoing condensation issues.
• Incorrect or not levelled mounting. Always ensure the unit is levelly mounted to avoid strain on internal components as well as correct drainage.
• Lack of proper drainage. Air conditioners produce very heavy condensation. Without correct drainage, water can back up and cause damage to the system or lead to mould growth.

Air conditioning installers diligently pay attention to these details, thus significantly enhancing the efficiency and lifespan of your AC unit, don’t risk it, call ClimateLink today.

Understanding installation requirements for air conditioning units

Proper AC installation goes beyond just placing and fitting the unit; it requires understanding and fulfilling specific technical requirements. Having your AC properly installed helps you avoid problems down the line.

• Consider electrical requirements. Air conditioners need a stable and adequate power supply, and some high-capacity models require special electrical circuits.
• Spatial requirements are a necessity. An air conditioner needs enough room around it to allow for proper air intake and exhaust.
• Understanding local building codes and regulations is also paramount. Different regions have specific codes regarding installing HVAC equipment, including how units must be mounted, distances from property lines and noise restrictions.

What are the different types of AC units?

Air conditioning units come in various types, each with specific installation requirements. Here are some of the most common types available in the market:

• Window-type: These units are designed to fit into standard window frames. It’s a popular choice for small spaces. This is the most basic type and can be completed by a competent DIYer.
• Split-type (ductless mini-split air conditioners): These have two main components: an outdoor compressor/condenser and one or more indoor air handling units. This requires professional installation due to the need for precise drilling and handling of refrigerant.
• Central air conditioning systems: A more complex type of AC involving ductwork that needs to be pre-installed. Installation is a significant undertaking that definitely requires professional help, as it involves detailed knowledge of ductwork design, electrical wiring and system sizing.
• Portable AC: These are the simplest in terms of installation, requiring only an outlet and a window where the unit’s exhaust hose can be vented.
• Through-the-wall AC: Similar to window units, but are installed in a sleeve passing through the wall. This type of unit is more permanent than window units, which usually means a more involved installation process.
• Variable Refrigerant Flow Systems: The most complex and versatile AC system available offering the greatest design flexibility and operating capacities. Suitable for high-end homes or commercial properties were design, spatial requirements and cooling capacities offer challenges for the stander split or ducted system.

Each type of air conditioner comes with its own set of installation challenges and costs. The choice of system depends not only on the budget but also on the structure of the building, the local climate, and specific cooling needs.

Preparing for AC installation

Before the installation, taking several preparatory steps can ensure a smooth and efficient process. Please only proceed with DIY friendly installation types.

• Start by clearing the area where the AC unit will be installed. This includes removing furniture, decorations or other obstacles that could hinder access to the installation site.
• Secure pets and small children. Keeping pets and children away from the work area prevents distractions and accidents, ensuring safety for all parties involved.
• Ensure you have all the necessary tools and components ready. This includes items like mounts, screws and any other accessories specified by the AC unit’s installation manual.

Setting up your air conditioning unit for success post-installation

Once your air conditioner is installed, conducting initial checks and tests is essential to ensure everything functions correctly.

• Start by testing the thermostat to verify it responds accurately and controls the unit as expected. Check airflow from all vents to ensure no blockages and that air is evenly distributed throughout the space.
• Ensure you’re regularly maintaining the unit. Regular maintenance includes cleaning or replacing filters every one to three months, checking and cleaning the condensate drain line to prevent clogs, and ensuring the outdoor unit remains free of debris and foliage.
• Schedule follow-up inspections and maintenance services. Have a professional air conditioning installer or technician inspect your system at least once a year—preferably before the cooling season begins.

All of these are labour-intensive and give you very little room for mistakes. Here at Climate Link, we’ll install your AC units for you quickly and efficiently.

Contact Climate Link and get your AC professionally-installed AC today!

If the heat, or cold, is getting to you, and you’ve decided to get an AC unit to cool things up a little, you’ve found the right people. Here at Climate Link, our team of professional air conditioning installers have you covered.

From personal homes to big business installations, we can handle it all. There’s no need to stress yourselves with the difficulty of installing your ACs on your own — let the professionals handle it for you!