
Minor But Critical Things People Ignore During Air Conditioner Installation | San Antonio, TX
So you’ve decided to take the plunge and install an air conditioner in your home. Congratulations! A/C units can make a difference in making your home comfortable during the hot summer months. But before you start patting yourself on the back, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to ensure that your installation goes off without a hitch. Here are minor but critical things people often ignore during air conditioner installation:
Thermostat Placement
The placement of a thermostat might seem like a minor detail during air conditioner installation, but it is quite important. Depending on the location, a home can become too hot or too cold if the thermostat isn’t placed correctly. For example, if it is placed near doors or windows where the temperature from outside is easily influenced, it could quickly make the room feel uncomfortable again.
Conversely, installing the thermostat too close to heat sources such as TVs and computers will cause it to overestimate the actual temperature, resulting in excessive cooling of that area when not needed. Therefore, when installing an air conditioner, the thermostat should be placed on a wall free of furniture and appliances to ensure accurate temperature readings. Keeping your thermostat away from sunny windows, drafts, and vents will also help maintain its accuracy. Considering every variable and ensuring optimal thermostat placement is key to an effective air conditioner installation.
Duct Sealing
Installing an air conditioner can be a cumbersome and expensive process. However, homeowners must remember that something as seemingly minor as duct sealing is just as critical to a system’s overall effectiveness. Duct sealing can greatly impact energy efficiency and air conditioning before it reaches its destination in your home—allowing you to save hundreds of dollars on energy bills over the years. Furthermore, correctly sealed ducts maximize the airflow generated by your air conditioner, creating optimal home comfort and preventing allergens and pollutants from infiltrating your living space. Duct sealing is thus an extremely important part of the equation and should not be ignored during air conditioner installation.
Condenser Unit Placement
When installing an air conditioner, the placement of your condenser unit is also critical. The ideal location for a condenser unit should be close to the home’s exterior wall but far enough away from windows and doors so as not to interfere with airflow or cause noise pollution. Additionally, you’ll want to ensure that the condenser unit is placed on a level surface, as an unstable foundation can cause damage to the unit’s components.
When the condenser isn’t placed correctly, the airflow resistance will be increased, limiting its performance and resulting in higher energy consumption and a lack of consistent cooling. Furthermore, when placed in direct sunlight, it becomes much harder for the unit to cool down and function properly. Proper condenser placement during air conditioner installation is essential for maximizing efficiency. Consider where it should be installed and take as many steps as possible to provide shade from sunlight.
Airflow Direction
Proper airflow direction is critical to a successful air conditioner installation. For example, strategically placing AC registers and return grills in each room is necessary if you want optimum airflow efficiency within the home. Additionally, using baffles to redirect the flow direction is essential if you are dealing with challenging restrictions. On the flip side, incorrect airflow direction can be extremely damaging. It could lead to various problems, such as uneven temperatures, increased dust circulation, and an overall spike in energy consumption. Proper understanding and consideration for airflow direction ensure your home stays comfortable year-round.
Calibrating the Thermostat
Placing the thermostat in an ideal location is only half the battle regarding air conditioner installation. The other half is calibrating it correctly. Calibrating the thermostat ensures that your home’s temperature is consistent and accurate, and it helps you maintain an optimal temperature without needing to adjust the thermostat settings constantly. Proper calibration also helps you save money on energy bills, preventing your air conditioner from overworking and consuming more electricity than necessary. Taking the time to calibrate your thermostat during an air conditioner installation is a crucial step that could make all the difference when it comes to your home
Testing Before and After Installation
Although testing is an often overlooked yet important step in air conditioner installation, all components must be tested before and after setup to ensure proper operation. Failing to do so can put the safety of your family and home at risk, as inefficient AC units use more energy causing electric bills to rise while not cooling properly inside or outside the house.
You should always test your air conditioner before and after installation to ensure it operates at its peak efficiency while providing the highest comfort level possible. If anything seems out of place during pre-installation testing or doesn’t meet industry standards during post-installation tests run by a certified service technician, ensure that any necessary repairs are done before using your AC for the first time.
Don’t Ignore the Minor Aspects when Installing an AC
Installing an air conditioner is no small task and requires great attention to detail to ensure it’s done properly. The points mentioned above are just a few of the many aspects to consider during installation, and it’s important not to overlook any minor details. You should engage an AC professional to ensure your AC unit is installed efficiently and safely so that you can enjoy comfortable temperatures all summer.
Call Us for the Best Services
If you are installing an AC in your home or business, don’t hesitate to contact us at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain + HVAC of San Antonio. Our team of professionals is highly experienced and can help you install your air conditioner correctly so that you can enjoy a comfortable home or workplace all year round. Give us a call today to find out more!
See our most recent blog on this topic here.