Installing a new air conditioner involves much more than just replacing the main condenser unit. It includes careful setup, from inspecting ductwork to wiring the thermostat, to ensure your system runs safely and effectively.
Starting With an Inspection
Before a professional begins work on your new air conditioning system, the first step is usually a detailed inspection. A technician looks at how your home is set up and how your old system performed if you had one. They check the layout of your rooms, the number of windows, and which areas of the residence are hottest. This helps determine what kind of system will cool your space efficiently and how the new unit should be installed.
An inspection doesn’t take very long, but you don’t want a technician to rush through this step of the installation process. The more information an installer can gather, the fewer issues that will come up later in the process. Once the inspection is finished, you’ll usually get a clear breakdown of the installation plan, the parts needed, and what the outcome will look like.
Removing the Old System
If you’re replacing an older AC unit, there will be a need to have your old equipment removed. This means a professional disconnecting power and carefully handling the refrigerant. Refrigerant needs to be handled a specific way to protect the environment and the technician working on your AC unit.
Once the refrigerant is handled, a technician will disconnect old wiring, remove the indoor and outdoor equipment, and prepare for the new system. Depending on the condition of the old AC lines and pads that the unit sits on, those parts might need to be replaced, too. If ductwork is in good shape, this can remain in place. If not, you might need new ductwork or at least repairs around connection points and damaged areas.
Choosing the Right Location
Your outdoor condenser requires more than a clear spot in your yard. It must sit on a solid base, be away from windows, and have ample airflow around and through it. An installer looks for a space where airflow won’t get blocked and noise won’t travel directly into a bedroom or living area.
If your previous unit sat on a concrete slab that’s still level and in good shape, they might use it again. If not, a new pad gets installed. The pad will be either a concrete base or a heavy-duty plastic one. Either way, the goal is to keep the unit stable and slightly raised so that water doesn’t collect around it.
Once the base is set, the unit gets anchored into place. This keeps it from shifting during storms or strong winds. It’s also important to check the slope of the ground nearby. If water tends to run toward the unit, there may be a need for the installation of a drain or slight grading to redirect the flow.
Running Refrigerant Lines and Completing Connections
The next step for new AC installation involves connecting the indoor and outdoor parts of your AC system. This means running refrigerant lines between the air handler and the condenser. These lines carry the fluid that moves heat out of your house. They’re insulated and usually run along a planned path through walls or a crawl space. The technician cuts the line to the right length and makes sure the bends are smooth to keep the refrigerant flowing properly.
A drain line will be run from the indoor unit to carry away the water the system pulls from the air. That usually gets routed outside or into a dedicated floor drain. The connection must be tight and angled properly so that the water doesn’t back up or pool around the unit.
Electrical wires are also added to power the system and connect the thermostat. Each connection gets checked for safety and durability. Once everything is in place, the lines get sealed, and the system gets pressurized to check for leaks before refrigerant is added. This is a step where precision makes a big difference in long-term performance.
Mounting and Connecting the Indoor Unit
Once outdoor setup is complete, the focus moves inside. The indoor unit might be a furnace with a coil attached or a dedicated air handler, depending on what kind of system you’re installing. It usually gets mounted in a closet, attic, or utility room, depending on where your old unit was or what your layout allows.
The installer positions the unit so that it connects smoothly to your ductwork and drain line. They also secure it so that vibrations don’t make noise later. The indoor unit has its own wiring, sensors, and safety shutoffs that all need to be tested. Airflow is checked to make sure the system pushes air evenly across the coil.
This is a good opportunity to have a new thermostat installed. If you are upgrading your thermostat, there may be a need to change the wiring setup or location of your unit. Some models need wiring for Wi-Fi connectivity or a new location for better temperature readings. The installer will walk through the display with you so that you know how to set and adjust your cooling schedule.
Testing, Calibrating, and the Final Walkthrough
After everything is connected, a technician will test each part of the system to see how it performs. This includes checking refrigerant pressure, measuring airflow, testing the temperature drop across the coil, and looking for odd noises or delays.
They may run the system for 15 to 30 minutes to watch how it cycles. They’ll adjust fan speeds, thermostat settings, or damper positions if needed during this time. The goal is to fine-tune your comfort. If one room gets too much air and another doesn’t get enough, this should be spotted before the installation is complete.
A professional will also check the drain to confirm that the water flows out freely and that the air filter fits snugly. Before they leave, you’ll usually get a short walkthrough. That includes what to listen for, how to clean or replace the filter, and how to use the thermostat. If the system has a warranty or maintenance schedule, they’ll tell you what to expect and how to keep the unit in good condition.
How Long the Installation Usually Takes
Most AC installations take one full day, depending on how complex the job is. If you’re replacing a similar unit and the connections are in good shape, the process may be faster. If your ducts need repairs, the electrical panel needs work, or you’re installing a new system for the first time, the job might take longer or extend into a second day.
Begin Your AC Installation Process With Us
You can trust us with all your air conditioning services needs, including HVAC repair and installation of your heating and cooling systems. We also install air purifiers to improve your indoor air quality. If you’re ready to get started with a new cooling system, schedule your installation with Fox Heating, Cooling & Plumbing in Wheat Ridge and get the job done right.
