Replacing or installing a central air system can give your home on-demand comfort with increased energy efficiency. Seeing the process in detail can help you to prepare for a stress-free project. Let’s look at the typical steps and answer your crucial questions as we guide you through each one.
When is it Time to Replace a Central Air System?
If you have an existing central air system you can look for telltale signs that it’s time for AC replacement.
- Age: If your system is between 10 and 15 years old then it’s likely approaching its replacement age. The good news is that a modern replacement can typically last for 15 to 20 years, thanks to improvements in manufacturing technology and overall quality.
- Frequent Repairs: Frequent repairs stack up as an air conditioner ages. If you repair your unit every season, then it’s likely more cost-efficient to replace it.
- Increased Energy Costs: Higher energy costs are a sign of a failing air conditioner or low refrigerant. You can have an HVAC technician inspect your unit for any problems before committing to a replacement.
- Poor Performance: Low cooling performance is usually a sign that your air conditioner is near its end of life, especially if it’s still a problem with regular maintenance.
- Noises and Odors: Strange noises like knocking and grinding, or bad odors from your central air system are common signs that you need a replacement.
- Low SEER Rating: Older air conditioners are less efficient and consume more energy to cool your home. Northern States have needed a 14 SEER rating since 2023. If we look at historical SEER data, we can see that requirements were as low as 10 SEER just 20 years ago. Upgrading will make a considerable difference to your utility bill.
- Refrigerant: If your system uses an older refrigerant like R-22, replacing it is ideal. Older systems will become costlier to maintain.
A licensed HVAC technician can evaluate your system based on any problems you experience.
What are the First Steps to Install a Central Air System?
The early consultation phase is essential to get the best solution for your home.
- A consultation and load calculation considers factors like your home’s size, insulation value, window types, ceiling height, layout, sunlight exposure, and more to determine the ideal size air conditioner for your replacement or new installation.
- Choosing a system will influence long-term energy savings. Higher SEER systems are costlier but can dramatically reduce ongoing costs. Other options like a variable-speed compressor system, and SMART thermostat features can improve usability and performance.
- A detailed quote is provided by your HVAC installation team.
How Long Does the HVAC Installation Process Take?
The time to install an HVAC system varies depending on your current situation.
- A replacement with existing ductwork is often completed in one to three days.
- A new installation with new ductwork can take up to a week and sometimes longer depending on the size of your home.
What Happens During the Central Air Installation Process?
While your project might have some unique details, these are the basic steps included when replacing or installing a new central air conditioning system.
- A technician safely disconnects and removes the old system, including the condenser, indoor coil, air handler, and any other necessary equipment.
- Next, your installer will prepare and modify existing ducts for the new system or install new ducts if you don’t already have central air.
- The outdoor condenser is installed on a level pad, and the new evaporator coil is installed.
- A new thermostat is installed and connected to the system.
- The thermostat and all equipment are tested and calibrated. Various checks, like measuring airflow, checking refrigerant levels, and testing performance ensure that everything functions correctly.
- A full cleanup is performed, and your technician will walk you through the new system and answer any questions you have.
Does Home Depot Install AC Units?
Home Depot can install AC units, including mini-split and central units in some regions. This is through its Home Services division. While this is ideal for some families, there are key points to consider.
- Home Depot installs central AC units through third party contractors.
- There is added cost compared to going directly to a local contractor.
- You might not have access to the selection and brands of an established HVAC company.
Soundview HVAC is your best choice for a replacement or new central air conditioning installation on Long Island. We have served local communities in and around Suffolk County since 2000. We supply leading brands, including Trane, Lennox, Ruud, Mitsubishi, Fujitsu, and more. Our service is comprehensive, including everything from central AC installation to furnaces and boilers.
Start with a free consultation and load calculation and get a competitive central air installation quote from the best HVAC contractors near you.
