In any home, proper ventilation is essential because it removes odours and pollutants from the air. In turn, the air is fresh and comfortable. However, many homeowners often take ventilation for granted because they think external air is enough to keep the interior cool. This isn’t always the case; only one thing can help: an air conditioner.

An AC unit is an appliance that helps to regulate the temperature and humidity in a room or building. It does this by circulating and filtering the air inside. However, you won’t enjoy your AC unit as soon as you get it because it must be installed properly first. If not, the AC unit will experience problems such as inefficient cooling and high energy bills. For this reason, one must know what mistakes to avoid when installing an AC unit, such as:

#1 – Incorrect Sizing

Sizing should be noted when installing an AC unit because it’s essential for proper function. If the AC unit is too small, it will have to work harder to cool the room, which uses more energy. If the AC unit is too big, it will cool the room too quickly, which will cause the unit to cycle on and off frequently. As a result, the AC unit will wear out quickly.

#2 – Not Leveling the Unit

If the AC unit isn’t level, it won’t function properly. The AC unit must be level so that the condensate can drain properly. If the AC unit isn’t level, the condensate will pool inside the unit and eventually cause the unit to rust.

#3 – Wiring Errors

An AC unit’s wiring is crucial because it provides power to the unit. If the wiring is faulty, the AC unit won’t get the energy it needs to function. This can be a big problem, especially if the AC unit is located in an area with a lot of sunlight. The heat from the sun can cause the wiring to melt, which can cause a fire.

#4 – Not Enough Space between the Wall and the AC Unit

If the AC unit isn’t installed with enough space between the wall and the unit, it won’t function properly. The AC unit needs to have enough space to breathe. Otherwise, the unit will overheat and eventually break down.

#5 – The Suction Line Lacks Insulation

The suction line is the part of an AC unit responsible for carrying the refrigerant from the evaporator to the compressor. If the suction line isn’t insulated, it will cause the refrigerant to boil. This can damage the compressor and cause the AC unit to break down. Beyond that, it also carries the refrigerant to the evaporator coil. If this line isn’t properly insulated, it can cause the refrigerant to leak out.

#6 – Presence of Right Angles on the Suction Line

In AC units, right angles refer to the 90-degree bends in the suction line. If there are too many right angles in the line, it can also cause the compressor to overheat and break down. As right angles also restrict the flow of refrigerant, resulting in damage.

#7 – The Refrigerant Pipes Are Too Long

An AC unit’s refrigerant is the cooling component, so it does significant work. The length of your AC unit’s refrigerant pipes can significantly impact its efficiency. If the pipes are too long, it can take longer for the refrigerant to reach the evaporator coils, which can cause the unit to work harder and use more energy. To avoid this, ensure your AC unit’s refrigerant pipes are the correct length for your home.

Working with an AC Professional

If you don’t know how to install an AC unit, it’s best to hire a professional. They know and are equipped with tools to ensure your unit is installed correctly.

However, you shouldn’t hire the first person you see because you should get the best value for your money. For this reason, you must consider experience, certifications, and reviews.

Conclusion

Installing an AC unit is not difficult as long as you have the right tools and knowledge. However, hiring a professional is best if you’re not confident in your abilities. This way, you can avoid errors that may cost you and enjoy a comfortable home.

4 Seasons Home Comfort provides top-quality services for AC installation in Lethbridge. Our professional AC technicians will ensure your unit is installed correctly for a more comfortable home, all for an affordable price. Simply go to our website to request a quote!