AIR CONDITIONING INSTALLATION MILFORD OH can significantly boost your home comfort and energy efficiency. It can also lower your energy bills and increase your property value.
A thorough site evaluation is key for a smooth installation and optimal operation. This involves assessing both indoor and outdoor spaces for optimum airflow, maintenance access, and unique architectural features.
Check Your Electrical Capacity
An air conditioning system requires a substantial amount of power to operate efficiently. However, many older homes’ electrical systems aren’t equipped to handle this demand. Insufficient capacity can lead to overheating wires, tripped circuit breakers, and even fire hazards. To avoid this risk, your home’s electrical infrastructure should be evaluated and upgraded before you schedule an AC installation.
A simple way to check your home’s electrical capacity is by looking at its breaker panel’s amperage rating. If the number is less than 200 amps, it’s likely that your electrical system needs an upgrade for a new air conditioner to safely function.
Additionally, check your home’s existing ductwork for leaks, insulation issues, and proper sizing. Leaky ducts waste up to 25% of the home’s conditioned air, while improperly sized ducts can cause overheating and reduced energy efficiency. In both cases, addressing these issues is crucial for a successful AC installation.
If you suspect that your electrical system is too small to support a new AC, you can have a professional electrician evaluate it for you. They’ll assess your home’s load requirements using specialized equipment, then recommend the right electrical upgrade for the job. This evaluation is essential, as it ensures that your new AC meets all safety standards and operates efficiently.
An alternative to a full electrical panel upgrade is the addition of a subpanel, which allows you to add additional breaker spaces without upgrading your entire electrical system. This is a cost-effective option that solves capacity problems for the long term.
Working with electrical systems poses serious risks that can cause fires, injuries, and death. For this reason, it’s essential to hire professional AC contractors to perform all electrical work for new AC installations. This collaboration between HVAC technicians and licensed electricians ensures that all aspects of your new AC installation meet strict industry standards.
Check Your Ductwork
Your home’s ductwork may seem out of sight, but it’s essential for efficient HVAC operation. Without functional ducts, your new AC system won’t be able to distribute conditioned air to every room in the house. Over time, however, ducts can become leaky and uninsulated, resulting in poor indoor air quality, higher energy bills, and discomfort. Fortunately, replacing old ducts can improve comfort and help save money.
A thorough inspection can determine your ductwork’s condition and compatibility with the new system. Your contractor will take into account factors such as age, signs of damage, and inefficiencies in the design of your duct system. If necessary, they’ll recommend a complete duct replacement to ensure optimal system performance.
In addition to ensuring the proper functioning of your new AC system, a professional will inspect the ductwork for signs of mold. Even a small amount of mold within the duct system can negatively impact indoor air quality and trigger respiratory issues. If mold is found, it’s important to address it immediately. Otherwise, the spores will continue to circulate throughout your home every time the HVAC system runs.
Depending on the type of air conditioner you choose, your ductwork will be a major factor in determining your home’s cooling capacity and efficiency. Split cooling systems use refrigerant lines to distribute cool air from the outdoor unit through your ductwork, while central ACs draw conditioned air from an indoor air handler. A new installation will likely require a new line set and a larger air conditioner to ensure sufficient cooling capacity for your home.
If you’re upgrading to a new AC installation, it’s best to schedule the appointment for a day when you’ll be home. This way, you can be available to answer any questions the technician might have. It’s also beneficial to be around when the new air conditioning equipment is tested, as this will provide an opportunity to review how the system operates and get answers to any lingering questions you might have.
Inspect Your Insulation
A new air conditioning installation is a significant upgrade to your home’s comfort and efficiency. It also impacts resale value and can boost your property tax assessment. The key to a smooth AC upgrade is careful preparation.
The first step is to hire a reputable HVAC contractor with NATE certification and a solid track record of satisfied customers. Verify that the contractor can provide a detailed estimate, including labor and materials. Check references and online reviews to gauge reliability. On installation day, make sure that the installers have easy access to all areas of your home, and that there are no obstacles blocking their way.
On the outdoor side of your home, ensure that there is clear and level ground where the condenser unit will be installed. Also, remove any overgrown vegetation and debris that could impact the AC installation.
Next, have a licensed electrician evaluate your home’s electrical system to ensure that it can accommodate the load of your new AC. If necessary, have an electrician upgrade your panel and install additional circuits.
If you have existing ductwork, make sure that it is properly sized and sealed. An average home loses 25% of conditioned air through leaks in ductwork. Inspect ductwork for loose joints, insulation issues, and proper sizing to avoid costly air loss.
An energy audit is another critical measure that can identify opportunities for improving your home’s energy efficiency. The insights gained from this evaluation can help you choose the right AC size for your home, as well as inform other upgrades and improvements that may be needed to maximize efficiency.
If your home isn’t adequately insulated, consider upgrading to newer, higher R-value insulation. Also, be sure to seal all of your air ducts in unconditioned spaces. In addition, have an HVAC technician seal and insulate any attic penetrations. This will prevent drafts and increase comfort while reducing your energy bills. Be sure to do this work before the AC installation, as it will be very difficult for the installers to work around existing insulation when they are putting in a new unit.
Clean the Area
Many homeowners assume that proper air conditioning installation is the HVAC technician’s job, but it’s actually up to you to prepare the work area. The technicians need easy access to electrical and plumbing systems, and they may need to pull ducts or move furniture. Clearing the space will help them complete their task safely and efficiently.
If you have pets, keep them out of the work zone or in a room where they won’t be disturbed. HVAC equipment can be noisy and intimidating to pets, and they may get startled by unfamiliar people with tools. It’s also helpful to keep children away from the work area.
Check the AC Drain Line
Your new AC system has a drain line that removes condensation. If it’s not regularly cleaned, the line can clog and lead to water damage. You can clean the line by disconnecting it from the indoor unit and pulling out any visible debris. Then, wash it with warm, soapy water and rinse it thoroughly. Allow the line to dry completely before reassembling and reconnecting it.
These steps can improve the quality of your home’s air and save you money on energy bills. In addition, ensuring your system is properly sized and that your home has sufficient insulation will also enhance its performance and longevity.