Knowing how long AC unit installation takes as a homeowner helps you adjust your schedule. Any homeowner can benefit from an experienced HVAC technician to install their unit for proper functioning.
So, how long will it take the technician to install the unit?
AC installation takes 4-8 hours to install. However, the time varies with the type of AC you buy. Some units have complicated installation instructions and steps, taking more time. The size of your home, the kind of unit, and the condition of the ductwork also affect the duration.
Installing the cooling system without the correct expertise can cause costly problems. Once you are ready for AC installation in Fort Mohave, AZ, hire an experienced company to do the work for you. The experts will advise on the best unit, depending on your needs.
How Long Does It Take for AC Installation?
AC installation takes between 4-8 hours to install. However, the duration depends on the size of your home, the unit, and the wiring condition in your house. Also, replacing an AC unit could take a shorter time than installing a new one because of the presence of ductwork and vents.
When interviewing the installation company or professional, you can ask them how long it takes to install the HVAC. Also, note that most installers do not charge a fixed rate but have a per-hour rate. Therefore, you will pay a fee depending on the installation’s length.
Factors that affect the time taken to install HVAC
While your neighbor’s or friend’s HVAC took four hours to install, you could wait eight hours or more for the technician to complete the job.
Some factors that influence the time taken for AC installation are;
1. Type of AC unit
Homeowners buy AC units depending on the size and layout of their homes. The two common types are split air conditioners and packaged air conditioning systems.
The split ACs are huge and meant for big spaces. They have two units joined by copper tubing. On the other hand, the packaged air conditioners are small and suitable for small spaces.
Installing the split AC unit takes more time because of its bulkiness. Besides, the installer needs to fix and set the two parts of the unit and complete their wiring, which can take time.
The small packaged air conditioners are easy to install because they are single units. Installers mostly fix them on the roof; these don’t need much wiring.
2. Size of your home
The size of your home also influences the time to install an AC unit. Big homes require an oversized HVAC system to cool all the rooms effectively. You also need air ducts and vents in every room, especially if you install the AC for the first time.
Big ACs are expensive to fix, and installing the vents and air ducts take time. While homeowners try reducing this cost by buying a smaller unit, it is not advisable. Small HVACs won’t cool your room effectively, use much energy, and break down faster due to overworking.
A smaller house requires a small AC unit, like a packaged air conditioner. Other systems are tiny and don’t require the installation of vents and air ducts, taking a short time for installation.
3. Your home’s layout
Besides the size of the house, your home’s layout can also influence the time it takes to install the system. Homes with complicated designs take technicians a lot of time to complete the installation. Some have hard-to-access areas that require breaking and building walls.
If your home’s layout is open and easy to work with, the technician will have an easy time. You can make their work easier by preparing for the installation.
4. Type of installation
It will take longer to fix the AC when installing it for the first time. That’s because your house needs the proper wiring and installation of vents and air ducts, which take a lot of time.
However, that’s different from AC replacements because the house has wiring, and the vents and air ducts are available.
How to reduce AC installation time
If you want the AC installer to do a quick but good job, reduce the time taken for installation. It also helps reduce replacement costs, especially for installers who charge a per-hour rate.
Some ways to reduce the time taken for AC installation are;
1. Preparing the area
Once you agree on when your technician will come to install the unit, start preparing the area for installation. You can do this by clearing and cleaning the compressor’s installation location.
You can also get all the required tools, like ladders. Ask the technician about the areas they will work on and declutter them. When the AC installer arrives, their only job will be fixing your machine, which will take a shorter time.
2. Keep your children and pets away
Children and pets should not be near the AC installation area. Tools and equipment can injure them. Children are also curious and could distract the technician as they do their job, increasing the installation time.
Ensure you keep your children and pets away from the site to avoid distractions. You can take them to a family member’s house or in a safe room until the installation ends.
3. Be available
Schedule your HVAC installation when you are out of work and in the house. Being available helps the installation team to ask questions directly without making phone calls, which can waste more time.
You can also direct the installers where you want them to install the unit, so you won’t ask for adjustments after they finish the work. Besides, when you are at home, you provide assistance when the installation team needs it, fastening the process.
Final Words
With the right AC installation guidelines, HVAC system installation can take between four to eight hours. However, the time varies with the size of your house, the type of unit you install, and your home’s layout. In addition, you can fasten the installation duration by cleaning the areas the installation team will work on and keeping your pets and children away from the site.