Avoiding 8 Common Mistakes in AC Installation for Central Florida Residents
Living in Florida provides ample opportunities to enjoy sunshine throughout the year, yet its sweltering heat often requires the assistance of air conditioning to maintain comfort within your home. As such, there isn’t a wrong season for investing in a new AC system installation. Florida inhabitants often find themselves relying on air conditioning systems even during milder months.
Ensuring a flawless installation of your new AC system is crucial. Installation errors could potentially rob you of not only your hard-earned money but also your comfort at home.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through eight cardinal errors that you must evade while undertaking the daunting task of replacing your residential AC system.
1. Evading the Trap of Buying the Cheapest AC System
Replacing an AC unit inevitably incurs a significant expense. In the Orlando, Florida area, residential AC system replacement can range from $2,500 to $14,100.
You might wonder, why such a vast difference in cost?
There are several key factors influencing the final expenditure on your new AC installation:
- The size of the unit
- The efficiency and SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating
- The type of system
- The geographical location
The magnitude of the unit directly influences the cost – a larger unit corresponds to a heftier price tag. Similarly, selecting a high-efficiency system or a system with a superior SEER rating will drive up the cost. Notably, packaged systems are more costly than split systems.
The installation site matters too! The outdoor AC units can be either roof-mounted or ground-installed. Mounting the condenser unit on the roof is generally more expensive than a ground-level installation.
While most homeowners opt for budget-friendly AC units, it’s crucial not to solely judge a system based on its price. A more expensive unit doesn’t necessarily guarantee superior quality, but a cheap, poor-quality system could lead to subpar performance. Furthermore, it’s essential to invest in a system that ensures good indoor air quality.
2. The Pitfall of DIY Installation without Prior Experience
You might be among the myriad of people who enjoy tackling home improvement projects and may be tempted to undertake a DIY AC installation. However, this is often a grave error.
Firstly, an apt AC installation necessitates working with electrical components. A lack of expertise in this area could potentially harm you or damage the new equipment.
Secondly, attempting a DIY installation could potentially nullify your warranty. Most warranties stipulate that a licensed AC contractor must be entrusted with the installation, repair, and maintenance of the equipment.
3. The Importance of Installing the Right Size AC
Expert AC professionals meticulously match the size of new AC units to the cubic footage of your home. If you undertake the purchase and installation, ensure that the new equipment fits the space appropriately.
A common mistake is procuring an AC unit designed for a smaller space, which forces the air conditioner into overtime, leading to premature wear and tear and struggles to meet your home’s cooling demands.
Conversely, installing an AC unit designed for a larger space than required might result in the unit continually cycling, thereby causing the equipment to wear out sooner than anticipated.
Engaging a professional AC installer significantly reduces the risk of such sizing errors.
4. The Role of Thermostat Placement
The thermostat is a pivotal component of your heating and cooling system. If you opt to replace your thermostat during the new AC installation, it’s critical to avoid a prevalent mistake.
Many homeowners are oblivious to the fact that the thermostat should not be placed on a wall that receives direct sunlight, as this could lead to inaccurate readings, causing the AC to activate erroneously.
Such ghost readings can lead to energy wastage and contribute to unnecessary wear and tear on your equipment.
5. The Need to Inspect Existing Ductwork
In the hustle of replacing AC units, the ductwork can easily be overlooked. However, neglecting to inspect it before installing the new unit can almost guarantee future issues.
Existing ductwork, depending on its age and condition, may have leaks at the joints. Improperly sealed joints result in less cool air being delivered into the room. Did you know that inefficient ductwork can result in up to a 20% loss of cool air intended for your home? Therefore, even the most advanced high-efficiency AC unit may not deliver the expected benefits if cool air is leaking before reaching your rooms.
If leaky joints are detected in your ductwork, it’s essential to seal them prior to installing the new equipment.
It is advisable to have a qualified AC technician inspect the ductwork before you embark on the AC installation process.
6. Providing Ample Clearance for the Condenser Unit
Often situated on a concrete ground-level pad or the roof, the condenser unit, sometimes referred to as the outside AC unit, needs ample space for effective operation. AC professionals recommend a clearance of a minimum of two feet on each side of the unit.
Insufficient clearance forces your AC system to work harder to maintain comfortable temperatures, thereby consuming more energy than necessary and resulting in higher energy bills.
7. The Risk of Hiring the Wrong AC Contractor
In Florida, finding AC installation and service contractors is a breeze, but discerning their qualifications and reliability can be daunting.
If you’re unacquainted with the intricacies of buying and installing AC equipment, you may feel overwhelmed while conversing with contractors.
Aim for an AC service company that genuinely listens to you and doesn’t dismiss your queries. A reliable contractor should be willing to visit your home for a preliminary inspection. Always insist on having all agreements in writing.
By ensuring you hire the most qualified and reliable AC contractor, you’ll receive expert assistance in choosing and maintaining the ideal residential AC system tailored to your specific needs and budget.
8. The Necessity of Routine Maintenance
The installation of a new AC unit is not the end of your commitment. The frequent mistake is to neglect the unit, under the assumption that if it’s working, everything must be fine.
AC systems, particularly in Florida’s heat and humidity, require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
AC professionals generally recommend at least one AC inspection and tune-up annually. However, if your AC operates year-round, a maintenance check every six months might be advisable.
Evading AC Installation Errors with Professional Help
Hiring a professional AC contractor can shield you from the errors elaborated above. With the support of a qualified AC contractor, you won’t need to fret over potential AC installation errors.
Since 1986, CENTURY AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING has been providing exceptional HVAC services throughout Central Florida. Our highly satisfied customer base can vouch for our licensed, insured, and background-checked technicians.
If you reside in Orlando and surrounding Central Florida areas, we’d be thrilled to assist you with your upcoming AC installation or repair.
About Century Air Conditioning & Heating
Century Air Conditioning & Heat was established in 1986. We’re a family owned and operated HVAC contractor in Orlando, FL. For over 36 years, we’ve been a trusted source for air conditioning equipment, heating equipment and related services. Century is an A+ BBB accredited business.
Air Conditioning & Heating Services Offered in Orlando and surrounding Central Florida Areas:
| Orlando Air Conditioner Installation | Orlando Air Conditioner Installation |
| HVAC Air Conditioning Maintenance | Orlando Air Conditioning Service |
