5 Mistakes to Avoid During Your AC Installation Process

Installing a new air conditioning system is an important investment in your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. Whether you’re upgrading your existing unit or installing a system for the first time, ensuring that the installation is done correctly is crucial to getting the best performance and longevity out of your new AC. At Texas Air Authorities, we’ve seen plenty of installations over the years, and we know that the process can be a little overwhelming. However, avoiding common mistakes during your AC installation can make a world of difference.

Here are the 5 most common mistakes to avoid during the AC installation process to ensure your system runs smoothly and efficiently for years to come.

1. Choosing the Wrong Size Unit

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make when installing a new air conditioner is choosing the wrong size unit. An AC system that is too large or too small for your space can lead to poor performance and higher energy bills.

1. Too small of a unit will struggle to cool your home, leading to higher energy consumption and frequent breakdowns.
2. Too large of a unit will cool the air too quickly, causing it to cycle on and off constantly, which can reduce energy efficiency and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the system. 

The correct size AC unit is determined by a number of factors, including the size of your home, the insulation, the number of windows, and even your local climate. At Texas Air Authorities, we perform a detailed load calculation to ensure that the system we install is the perfect fit for your needs. This ensures optimal performance and efficiency.

2. Overlooking Proper Ductwork Maintenance

Many homeowners focus solely on the new air conditioning unit, but your system’s ducts are just as important to its performance. Old, leaky, or poorly designed ductwork can seriously hinder your AC’s efficiency and increase energy costs.

When ducts have leaks or obstructions, cool air is lost before it can reach the rooms in your home. This means your air conditioner will have to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, reducing its lifespan and efficiency.

Before installation, make sure your ducts are checked for leaks, damage, and cleanliness. At Texas Air Authorities, we offer duct cleaning, sealing, and repair services to ensure your ducts are in tip-top shape before installing your new system. This ensures that your new AC runs at peak performance and efficiency from day one.

3. Improper Placement of the Unit

Where your air conditioning unit is placed can have a significant impact on its efficiency. Improper placement, especially with outdoor units, can limit airflow and make the system work harder than it needs to. Here are some things to consider when deciding where to install your new AC:

1. Avoid placing the unit in direct sunlight for long periods, as this will cause it to overheat and consume more energy.
2. Ensure there is adequate space around the unit to allow for proper airflow and easy maintenance access. Obstructed airflow can cause the unit to overheat and lead to premature failure.
3. Consider accessibility for maintenance and repair. Your unit should be easily accessible for technicians in case of future repairs or servicing needs. 

The placement of both the indoor and outdoor units needs to be carefully considered for maximum efficiency. Our technicians at Texas Air Authorities have extensive experience and can recommend the best possible locations for your new system.

4. Skipping the Professional Installation

It may be tempting to cut costs and go with a DIY installation or hire an unqualified handyman to install your air conditioning system. However, this is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. HVAC systems are complex, and improper installation can lead to a wide range of issues, from poor airflow to system breakdowns and even safety hazards.

Here’s why professional installation is essential:

1. Compliance with local codes: HVAC systems must meet certain local building codes and regulations to ensure they’re safe and efficient. A licensed HVAC technician will ensure that your installation is up to code.
2. Proper system calibration: An experienced technician will properly calibrate the system, ensuring that it runs efficiently from the start.
3. Warranty protection: Many manufacturers require professional installation to keep your warranty valid. If an issue arises later, a DIY job may void your warranty and leave you footing the repair bills. 

At Texas Air Authorities, we have NATE-certified technicians who have the expertise to handle every aspect of your AC installation, ensuring everything is done according to industry standards and manufacturer specifications.

5. Neglecting the Importance of Post-Installation Maintenance

Installing a new air conditioner doesn’t mean the job is over. After the installation, regular maintenance is key to keeping your system running efficiently and extending its lifespan. Skipping post-installation maintenance, such as setting up a seasonal inspection or changing the air filter regularly, can lead to problems down the road.

Here’s what you should do after the installation:

1. Change air filters regularly: A clogged or dirty filter reduces airflow, making your AC work harder and increasing energy consumption.
2. Schedule routine maintenance: Regular tune-ups by a professional HVAC technician help ensure that your system is operating at its peak efficiency and can prevent costly repairs down the line.
3. Monitor the performance: Pay attention to how your AC is running in the first few weeks. If you notice strange noises or insufficient cooling, contact an expert to check it out. 

At Texas Air Authorities, we offer ongoing maintenance plans to help you keep your system in excellent condition. Routine check-ups can catch small problems before they become big, expensive issues.

Conclusion

Installing a new air conditioning system is a big investment, and making sure the process goes smoothly is essential to ensuring that you get the most out of your new unit. By avoiding these common mistakes — choosing the wrong size unit, neglecting ductwork, improper placement, skipping professional installation, and neglecting post-installation maintenance — you can help ensure that your AC works efficiently and reliably for years to come.

If you’re ready to install a new air conditioning system in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Texas Air Authorities is here to help. Our experienced, NATE-certified technicians are ready to guide you through the process and ensure a smooth, hassle-free installation. Contact us today for a free estimate and same-day quote, and let us show you why we’re the trusted choice for all your HVAC needs!