Having an air conditioner that is not installed the right way can cause it to run inefficiently and could increase your maintenance costs. It could also make it much more expensive to run. As a result, it is vital that you and your contractor take the time to get the installation right the first time. If you have an air conditioner that has not been installed properly, it is a good idea to have a professional look at it, since even energy-efficient units can perform as poorly as older air conditioners when not installed properly.
Provide Enough Space
Air conditioning installation requires a great deal of space. Not only do you need enough room to place the air conditioner, but your contractor should also use a duct-sizing methodology like the one found in the Air Conditioning Contractors of America’s official manual. You should also leave enough space for an access door in the duct, so that you can clean the evaporator coil when needed.
Placing the Thermostat
An often overlooked aspect of installing an air conditioner is the location of the thermostat. Always keep the thermostat away from anything that could heat it up, as this will cause your air conditioner to run non-stop. This is because the location of the thermostat is where the house’s temperature reading originates. If the thermostat is near a window and is constantly in the sun, it will believe that it is hotter than it actually is.
The Ducts
All of your ducts should be sealed and insulated to prevent air leaks. Ending up with an air leak could cost you a lot of money, especially if you do not notice it right away. Your ducts should also be located within the house, since placing them in an unconditioned space could alter the temperature of the conditioned air.
Ask About Rebates
Perhaps most importantly, see where you can save money on your air conditioning installation. New Jersey, for example, has a clean energy program that will provide you with a rebate if you purchase an energy efficient air conditioner. If you are thinking about installing an air conditioner, you might as well save some money.
Hurricane Plumbing, Heating & Drains handles HVAC jobs of all sizes, 24-hours per day throughout New Jersey. For more information or a free estimate, visit the company’s
