Air Conditioner Installation And Location Tips

It would be nice if central air conditioning systems would last forever.

But alas, they are machines, and like all mechanical systems, they will eventually reach the end of their useful life.

Fortunately, with good installation and maintenance, central AC systems can last about 15 to 20 years.

But eventually just about all of us who own a home or commercial building will have to replace the system due to old age (unless we’re fortunate enough to sell and buy a new property before that time ever comes).

So if the time has come for the purchase of a new system, here are some useful tips and best practices in regard to the installation and location of your AC equipment.

First off, we’re going to assume you’ve worked with your HVAC specialist to select the right air conditioning unit for your home or business–be sure to take advantage of today’s highly efficient, Energy Star rated equipment with high SEER ratings.

So now let’s get to the installation and location of your equipment:

• Make sure you have enough indoor space to install, maintain and repair the new system. An access door should be available to reach the evaporator coil for cleaning.
• Calculate the correct ductwork size using the methodology found in the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) Manual D.
• Be sure all ductwork is sealed with specialized duct mastic (duct tape alone will eventually deteriorate and cause leaks).
• You want to be sure you have the right number of supply registers for delivering cool air, and the right number of return registers to return warm air to the AC system.
• Think about where you want to locate your condensing unit. It shouldn’t be in a place where the noise will keep you up at night or bother your neighbors.
• Also, make sure no objects are blocking the flow of air to the condensing unit.
• Keep the thermostat away from heat sources such as sunlight coming through windows or supply registers.

Your new system will only be as efficient as the experts who install it!