Air Conditioner Installation Checklist
It is a good idea to have the installer walk around the job with you to look at these things. It is better to check them while the company representative is there so that issues can be quickly be resolved. Most unit manufacturers require the installing company to pay for the labor for repairs within the first month after installation. Our top twelve things to check will give you a reasonable sense of the quality of the installer's work.
Twelve Things to Look For:
- 1. The outdoor unit should be level. This is important for proper distribution of oil for lubricating the compressor as well as for looks.
- 2. The outdoor unit should have a pad under it that is made of hardened plastic or concrete. This is to provide a solid base for the unit.
- 3. The outdoor unit should be about 1 foot away from the house. This is to allow proper air circulation. Without proper airflow, the unit will have higher operating pressures which will use more electricity and cause more wear and tear.
- 4. There should be a refrigerant filter/drier in the system. This looks like a metal can surrounding the smaller refrigerant line. This is important to ensure there is no moisture inside the system which can produce harmful acid.
- 5. There should be an electrical disconnect within 3 feet of the outdoor unit. This is an important safety requirement and is required by most residential building codes.
- 6. There should not be any scraps or trash from the installation left laying around. Attention to detail is a sign of quality workmanship.
- 7. The large copper line running from the outdoor unit to the indoor unit should be insulated without any tears in the foam. This maintains efficiency and proper compressor operation.
- 8. The copper lines should be supported about every 4 feet. Ensure there are no sagging places which can trap oil needed to lubricate the compressor.
- 9. The copper lines should be as short as possible.
- 10. Normally the copper lines should be the same size as the connections on the unit. If not, ask why and ensure you understand the reason.
- 11. Both the main and emergency drain connections on the indoor coil should be connected to a suitable drain.
- 12. Run the system through a complete cooling cycle. Check the temperature drop across the evaporator coil (measured by subtracting supply air temperature from entering air temperature). On high efficiency units, this should be around 12 to 14 degrees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do the air conditioner installation myself?
While a handy homeowner can perform some setup, most jurisdictions require a licensed professional for refrigerant handling and electrical connections. Additionally, DIY installation often voids the manufacturer's parts warranty.
How long does a typical AC installation take?
A standard central air conditioner replacement usually takes 4 to 8 hours. If new ductwork or a furnace is being installed simultaneously, the process can extend to two days.
What should I check before the installers leave?
Perform a walkthrough to verify the unit is level, the condensate drain is properly trapped and flowing, and that the technician has tested the temperature drop across the coil.
Meet the Expert: HVAC Repair Guy (Richard Reed)
HVAC Specialist & Founder of HVAC For Beginners
Richard Reed (known to his followers as the HVAC Repair Guy) brings over 17 years of specialized HVAC industry experience. His unique background includes serving as an electrician in nuclear power before completing a 4‑year HVAC service apprenticeship and 8 years of field experience. Based in the Midwest, he has helped homeowners understand, maintain, and upgrade their systems since the early 2000s. His mission is to provide unbiased, “repairman’s point of view” insights into energy conservation and alternative energy solutions.