How Long Does it Take to Install an AC Unit?
Once you’ve decided it’s time for a new air conditioner, you may want to know how long it takes before you reap the benefits of cooler air. This timeline depends on the type of equipment you are having installed, whether you have existing ductwork, and any necessary preparation work. At Jeffries Heating & Air + Plumbing, in Somerset, KY, we handle every step of this process from load calculation to a final test. Let’s walk through what your installation process will look like.
Survey and Equipment Selection
Our team will visit your home to assess your cooling needs. We consider square footage and ceiling height. We also check insulation levels. We will inspect existing ductwork for leaks and check for ample clearance around your outdoor unit. This survey ensures you pick an air conditioner that can cool each room evenly.
A unit that’s too large usually results in short cycling, while one that’s too small may run constantly and still leave your home feeling uncomfortable. After gathering details, we will recommend systems that match your budget and space. You review the options, efficiency ratings, noise levels, and expected energy savings, then choose the model you like best. That decision allows for the ordering of equipment and scheduling of installation.
Day One: Removal and Preparation
The first step is to disconnect power at the breaker panel and drain any residual refrigerant from the old system per safety guidelines. Our technicians then remove the outdoor condenser and indoor air handler, capping any refrigerant lines to prevent moisture from entering. With the old system out of the way, we inspect the pad and mounting brackets for the condenser, leveling and securing them as needed. Inside, we clear the space around the air handler to make way for the new unit. That preparation ensures a clean, safe start for the new equipment and sets you up for a smooth installation on day two.
Day Two: Installation and Final Connections
The morning of day two begins with positioning the new condenser on the prepared pad. Technicians bolt it in place and clear space around the condenser coils to allow proper airflow. Inside, we hoist the new air handler into the attic or closet and connect the new drain pan to the condensate line. We run the refrigerant lines through the wall or ceiling, bending them carefully to prevent kinks and ensure efficient flow.
After brazing or flare-fitting the connections, it is necessary to evacuate air and moisture from the lines using a vacuum pump. This critical step prevents ice buildup and corrosion inside the system. Once the pressure checks are complete, they charge the system with the precise amount of refrigerant. A final wiring session hooks up the thermostat, safety switches, and breaker. After restoring power, they test the system through a full cooling cycle, confirming stable pressures, correct airflow, and quiet operation.
Factors That Affect Installation Time
Every home presents unique variables that speed up or slow down installation. If your ductwork fits the new air handler dimensions, the job can be completed in a shorter time frame. Tight access in a crawl space or replacing outdated ducting adds hours. Weather also matters. Rain or freezing temperatures force our technicians to pause outdoor work for safety.
Older homes with knob-and-tube wiring may require an electrical panel upgrade before the AC can draw power, adding more time. Homes with stucco or brick exteriors may require the use of special anchors for condenser lines, which requires extra labor. When ordering equipment, units on backorder delay your installation date. Discuss these factors with our team so you have realistic expectations.
Post-Installation Checks
Once your new system is in place and operating, we will clean the work area and remove all debris. We will walk you through using your new equipment and demonstrate how to set the thermostat, change filters, and monitor basic performance. This part of the process is rather brief but learning about airflow balance and how to recognize early signs of trouble is important.
Installing a New AC
Installing a new AC unit creates a comfortable and more efficient home while often lowering your energy bills. The exact timeframe for installation varies, but most take one to two days. Along with AC installation, our team here at Jeffries Heating & Air + Plumbing offers duct cleaning and smart thermostat upgrades to make your system run smoother and last longer.
Ready to replace that old unit and start saving on cooling costs? Contact us at Jeffries Heating & Air + Plumbing in Somerset today.
