In a region like Mesa, AZ, having Honest Air Conditioning install an AC system is an essential part of living comfortably during the hottest months. Few projects are as simple as dropping a unit into place and switching it on. Even if there was a previous installation in the house, a new one may require some adjustments to make the system work. Homeowners should expect the following when they order an AC installation.
Initial Assessment
Before you can even select a unit, our technician needs to know the homeowner’s needs and wants. The most basic part of the assessment is calculating the cubic footage of the house, at least the area that needs air conditioning. Using this calculation, our technician will then determine the amount of needed cooling capacity for the house. Right-sizing the AC installation is critical because an overly small unit will run for more cycles and an overly large one will inefficiently draw too much energy during each cycle.
The assessment also needs to look at the supporting systems in the house to ensure that everything is ready for the desired AC setup. Our technician will compare the manufacturer’s specifications to what they know about the house. Then, we can make modifications if needed to support the new AC unit.
Determining the right solution is also important. If you only need to cool one or two rooms, our technician might recommend a mini-split system. This is a standalone setup that typically goes through one wall in a single room. It is sometimes a cost-effective way to add cooling without changing the current HVAC setup.
The assessment should also account for the homeowner’s requirements. If you’re focused on long-term savings, our technician may recommend a high-efficiency system that’ll reduce the total cost of ownership by lowering your energy bills. Homeowners should also look at potential tax credits for using a high-efficiency system. Our firm offers free in-home estimates for nearly all projects so don’t hesitate to ask for an assessment.
Ducting
Very few new installations go off without at least some ducting work. Older ducting setups are often inefficiently designed. Old ducts can also develop leaks where seals in joints have failed. If the ducts lack sufficient insulation, they could also let heat into the system or radiate cooling into the wrong parts of the building. A professional will want to have the ducts in top shape to ensure they maximize the efficiency of your AC system.
Ducting work is also sometimes necessary to create zones and balance the overall airflow in the house. For example, a damper might be necessary if one room is getting too much air.
Electrical Work
A typical AC installation requires light electrical wiring work that’s within the skills of our technicians. However, there will be times when a home’s electrical system doesn’t provide enough capacity and overhead for the AC unit and other systems. Consequently, a licensed electrician will need to complete the work. Our technician will work with you to ensure you have everything you need to get the job done.
Minor Home Modifications
If you’re installing an AC unit for the first time or moving the systems to a new location, we may need to perform minor modifications to your house. Usually, these involve minor changes. For example, we might need to create access in the walls or the foundation to run wiring, ducting, and coolant lines for the AC setup.
Whenever possible, we try to keep these modifications as small and subtle as possible. From the outside, the affected areas usually hide behind the external condenser unit. Most modifications to the inside of the house are in the basement or a service closet that houses the AC unit. We may also need to do limited modifications like adding vents and control panels.
Components
Fortunately, manufacturers know that AC units need to go into and out of houses without causing too much trouble. Our technician will remove the existing system in parts and then bring in the new setup component by component. This does mean there needs to be a clear path to wherever the AC is going. However, the disruption within a home tends to be minimal.
Electronics
Most homeowners now want a system that’s a bit more complex than one with just a thermostat. There are plenty of ways to integrate AC installations with smart home, security, and voice assistant technologies. Also, modern control panels often offer secure access to the controls wirelessly from tablets, phones, TVs, and other devices.
Another notable benefit of newer electronics for AC systems is timing. With the right setup, you can configure the AC system to operate at specific times. If your electric company offers variable rates on electricity, you might set the system up to cool the house more during the times featuring the lowest rates. Similarly, many people configure their homes’ AC systems to run less when no one is there. You can even set the controls to turn on the AC and cool your home a bit more just before you return from work.
Zones
For most houses, the most efficient approach will be a zoned AC system. Many people have rooms they don’t regularly use, and carving out zones for greater or less use can save money in the long run. Systems like dampers and blowers may be necessary to balance the airflow to match your zone requirements. Also, our technician may have to install electronics to control those systems and to provide access in each zone.
Charging
The use of refrigerants in AC units means that no system can instantly come on. Our technician will need to charge the lines and make sure that they’re only running refrigerant. The charging process can take a bit of time, especially if there is a long run of refrigerant lines to the outside.
Testing
With all the components in place and the system charged, the time has arrived for testing. Our AC technicians have tools that allow them to check a host of settings. They can assess the airflow rate from each vent to ensure that the system is operating in an efficient and balanced state. Likewise, they can test that the electrical systems are operating within specifications. We always thoroughly test every system before we declare any project done.
Maintenance
To get the most out of the system, long-term maintenance should start in the year of the purchase. Scheduling professional maintenance gives our technicians a chance to check in on the system. Also, we can show you how to deal with basic needs like filter changes. Developing a good maintenance schedule now will improve the odds that your new AC system will exceed its rated mechanical lifetime.
Honest Air Conditioning is proud to keep the residents of Mesa and the surrounding areas comfortable. Our firm performs all heating and air conditioning jobs, including installations, maintenance, and repairs. We also perform indoor air quality work. Call Honest Air Conditioning today to request a free in-home estimate for your project.