How Long Does It Take To Install an Air Conditioner?

Knowing exactly how long it will take to install a new AC unit and what work must be done is an important factor in making your next move in replacing or installing a new air conditioner in your house. If you are wondering how long it will take to install an air conditioner, you are in the right place.

Is Installing a New Air Conditioner Hard?

It’s time to cool off and make the most of your summer using a new air conditioner. However, installing an air conditioning unit requires time and effort.

For some people, air conditioner installations are small projects, while for others, it’s an endurance test. You’ll probably be required to do a lot of manual labor, including lifting heavy equipment, pouring a concrete foundation, and even getting under the house. If this is not your idea of fun, you can pass the installation process over to an air con installer. The technician will definitely install an air conditioner for you in no time.

Installing an AC system is hard work, but if it is done properly with proper service and equipment, you can expect your current system to last for quite some time.

Why Does AC Installation Take So Long?

Many customers ask why air conditioner installation takes so long. The answer is that installing an air conditioning system typically requires more than just operating a few tools and maintenance. 

It’s important to understand that the installation and service required are not only time-consuming, but it’s also complex and very labor-intensive. This means you can’t rush through changing your old unit, configuring the line set, positioning the indoor and outdoor units, adding refrigerant to your air conditioning system, or fixing electrical components during the air conditioner installation.

How Long Does It Take to Install a New Air Conditioning System?

A typical air conditioner installation takes between 4 and 8 hours to complete. These times can fluctuate depending on the size of the existing system, weather, and accessibility. Not-so-skilled homeowners can mess up the sequence and often double handle the same work. Thus, they often take a longer time to complete the installation. 

If you’re replacing an old system, the ductwork will already be in place so the HVAC installation will be quicker. 

Air conditioners are made up of different components: the evaporator coil, refrigerant, compressor, and outdoor unit. During the installation of your air conditioning system, an indoor unit and an outdoor unit need to be installed in your room.

After hours of installation, the installer will need to access both units. They will also check the heating and cooling service of your unit, so it might take an additional hour apart from the process.

However, there are ways to reduce the hour by paying attention to several details along the way. Some tips include making sure that the ductwork is clean before starting, unplugging other electrical equipment in our home when working on AC installation, and having everything properly labeled. 

Factors Affecting the Installation Time of the Air Conditioning Units

In case you want to install an air conditioner, there are different factors that might affect its installation service and length. Below are some of the things to consider: 

Location of the Air Conditioning System

When estimating installation time, the placement of the AC unit is crucial. The first concern in regards to installing an air conditioner is the square footage of your home. The space and location of the unit will affect the heating and cooling of the room. Typically, the larger the home, the more vents will need to be installed, which will take longer. 

It is advisable to provide your installers with detailed descriptions of the proposed installation location, such as the height, circuit breaker location, and how to access it. The air conditioning service company technicians will also give an initial inspection before installing the air conditioner.

The inspection should usually take less than an hour unless there are some serious issues with your home. Your air conditioning service company will give you a rough estimate of how long it would take to install an air conditioner in your space during the initial inspection.

Type of Air Conditioning Units

The type of AC system also contributes to the total length of time. Here are some of the types that are usually seen at home:

Split System Air Conditioner 

A split unit air conditioner is a type of air conditioning system that consists of two independent units: the condensing unit and the air handling unit. The split air conditioner is a wall-mounted type. Installing a split-type air conditioner is the simplest, and therefore can be done in a short time. 

Window Air Conditioner

Since window air conditioners come in different sizes, they would be suitable if you’re looking to cool a single room or a small area. Just like a split-type air conditioner, a window-type unit is a wall-mounted type, so it is easier to install.

Central Air Conditioner

A central air conditioning unit is more costly than any of the other varieties described, but it is also more effective. A ceiling cassette or concealed type is more complicated. Therefore, it may require more time to install compared to other types of air conditioners.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the right air conditioner and installing it is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. The simple truth is that installing an air conditioning system takes hours to complete. Not only are you covering multiple rooms, but there are several different options to consider.

One of the reasons it takes a long time to install an air conditioner is that a technician needs to put together a careful solution, focusing on every little detail. If you want a skilled technician to install your air conditioning unit, you can contact them and request a free estimate.