How Air Conditioning is Professionally Installed: What To Expect
Having air conditioning installed is one of the best investments you can make in the comfort of your home or workplace – though it needs to be done right.
While certain types of air conditioning can technically be self-installed, a DIY approach carries its risks. Installation mistakes can become costly to fix, such as large holes left in your walls, system problems, increased risk of leaks, and a shortened lifespan.
Professional installation ensures your system is fitted safely, compliantly, and to the standard it was designed to perform at. But how long will it take? How disruptive will it be? And what does the process actually involve?
Here, we walk you through our air conditioning installation process, addressing common questions and concerns and providing clarity on what to expect from us – and from professional installers alike.
An overview of the professional installation process
Each installation is slightly different, from the units being installed to the installer carrying out the work. A standard split system, for example, differs significantly from a ducted system which brings added complexity. For a wall mount split system installation, the process typically goes as follows.
1. Indoor unit fitting & drilling
The indoor unit is fixed to the wall in the agreed location, typically on an outward-facing wall. A core drill hole is made through the wall to allow the pipework to pass through.
2. Outdoor unit fitting
The outdoor unit bracket is fixed to the exterior wall and the unit mounted in the agreed location.
3. Trunking installation & unit connectivity
Trunking is installed between the indoor and outdoor units. This is followed by all the necessary connectivity between the two through the drilled hole, including all pipework, cabling, and drainage.
4. Testing & Configuring
The system is pressure tested using oxygen-free nitrogen, then vacuumed down to the appropriate torr before refrigerant gas is charged into the system. Commissioning tests and checks are then completed and documented.
Frequently asked questions about the process
How long does air conditioning installation take?
It all depends on the type of system and the number of units being fitted. A single room split system installation may only take a day, whereas a ducted system spanning two or more rooms is likely to take anywhere from two to five days.
Upon receiving a quote, your chosen installer should be able to provide you with an accurate time estimate for completion.
How disruptive is professional installation?
For split systems, professional AC installation is generally a relatively low-disruption process. The most disruptive element is likely to be the drilling, which is required to:
- Run pipework and cabling through walls
- Mount indoor and outdoor units and containment
Ducted systems, however, should be expected to be slightly more disruptive. Units are fitted within the ceiling and are often installed over a greater area. As a far more complex process, you can naturally expect a longer installation process.
What typically happens after installation?
At Chill, once installation is complete, our engineers will thoroughly test and inspect the system. We go to great lengths to ensure everything is fitted to the highest possible standard. The area will also be tidied, left as clean as it was before we arrived.
We’ll complete and provide you with all necessary commissioning documents. Following all work, you’ll receive a copy of your installation sheet, your final invoice, and your service agreement.
Why is professional recommended over DIY installation?
Air conditioning systems often require professional installation, rather than the case of it being recommended. Traditional split and multi-split systems use refrigerant gases, and even systems that don’t require additional refrigerant as part of installation, still must be fitted by F-Gas certified engineers.
Professional installation also ensures safety and efficient performance. Even for systems where DIY is technically possible, the risk of error alone is reason enough to have the work done professionally.
Contact us today
Looking for air conditioning professionally installed? Our team of F-Gas certified engineers are here to help.
We offer a range of air conditioning services to help keep your space cool. Whether it’s a domestic or commercial property, we can install AC systems that you can count on to deliver optimal performance for years to come.
From installation to all the servicing and maintenance you need, Chill Air Conditioning has you covered. To learn more about our services, contact us today – we’d love to hear from you.
