Your Guide to Quick and Efficient HVAC Install Solutions

Jan 20

Winter is finally here, and your home can get pretty cold. Having an efficient HVAC system is essential for maintaining your indoor comfort regardless of the weather outside. But most homes don't have properly installed HVAC systems.

The maintenance and repair costs of HVACs cost households over $14 billion annually, according to the Department of Energy. Installing a new HVAC system is necessary if your existing system has become inefficient or constantly requires repairs.

An efficient HVAC install might seem challenging. So read on, and let's explore HVAC installations and what they involve.

Steps Involved in HVAC Installation

Before picking out your HVAC system, there are a few things you need to consider. Some of the steps you need to undertake include the following:

Site Planning and Assessment

Scope out your home's size and layout to determine which HVAC system can meet your needs. Evaluate the current HVAC system, as this can also help you decide what will work efficiently. Your site assessment should also include:

Checking the condition of the existing ductwork
Electrical capacity available
Local climate and any potential obstacles

Document everything during this step and even take photographs for greater reference. It's also important to note if any particular cold or hot spots may need additional solutions, such as mini-splits or zoned systems.

When assessing your current system, you should talk to an experienced HVAC technician. They can help you decide whether you need repair services or a new system. These experts will also use Manual J calculation for an accurate load estimation.

Choosing the Right System

According to the World Economic Forum, two-thirds of HVAC systems in American homes entail central equipment rather than portable systems. Explore different HVAC systems before settling on one that meets your needs.

Residential HVAC systems often come with different energy efficiency ratings depending on the cooling and heating capacity. Consider the long-term needs of your home and the climate changes that might occur.

With global warming, winters may become much colder, and temperatures may rise during summer. Other factors that you should consider when choosing an HVAC system include:

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER)
Technological features such as Wi-Fi enhancement
Cost saving
Warranty period

An advanced HVAC unit may cost more upfront. However, that shouldn't discourage you from purchasing because you'll likely spend less on maintenance and repair. Consult an HVAC technician to find out the best-performing systems in the market and what can work for your climate.

Pre-Installation

Before installation, you need to carry out different tasks such as ductwork cleaning and setup. Choose ducting materials that are durable and compatible with the HVAC system. Also, the ducts should be tested and efficiently installed to ensure there are no leakages that might jeopardize airflow.

You can repair leaks through the use of neat tape or mastic sealant. However, buying new ducts is the best way to enhance the efficiency of an HVAC install process. Other steps you need to take during the pre-installation process include:

Checking the airflow
Getting the necessary tools
Removal of any obstructions
Reviewing the manufacturer's instructions

A trained expert will help you with drain cleaning and other services, such as plumbing, if necessary. Moreover, getting a contractor during installation will enhance maintenance work over the years.

Installation Process

Begin with the indoor installation first before moving to the outdoor areas of your home. It's advisable to mark the locations where you want the HVAC to go. Choose a central area that's accessible to enhance air distribution.

Remember to conform to the manufacturer's specifications during the installation process. Doing so will ensure that the system works perfectly once installed. Move to the outdoor area and choose a stable location or a concrete pad.

Finally, give the unit ample clearance to ensure that for proper airflow.

Post-Installation Steps

After the installation process, conduct the following steps to ensure the unit is working properly:

Test the system by running a complete heating and cooling cycles
Inspect the ductwork for any blockages and leaks
Check the electrical connection and safety disconnects
Verify the refrigerant status

Post-installation testing is also necessary to come up with a maintenance plan. If you encounter any problems, reach out to an HVAC specialist. They can test out the system more rigorously and determine if everything is working well.

An HVAC expert can also help you understand why the problem occurred. For example, overcharging an AC unit with refrigerant can lead to system failure and cause potential leaks.

Best Practices for HVAC Install

There are a few best practices you can follow to mitigate any HVAC installation risks and optimize results. Acquiring professional HVAC solutions from a licensed contractor is one of the best decisions you can make.

Additional best practices for HVAC installation include:

Conducting detailed Manual J calculations and don't rely on square footage alone
Choosing equipment with variable speed for better efficiency and comfort
Checking the phase and voltage requirements

About 93% of homes built between 2010 and 2020 used AC, according to the Energy Information Administration. However, most AC units can become inefficient, leading to higher energy costs for your household if they aren't properly installed.

HVAC professionals understand local building codes and will help you choose HVAC systems that are efficient depending on the size and layout of your home.

How to Choose the Best Choose HVAC Install Services

Choosing the best HVAC installation service ensures a seamless installation process. Consider the following factors when selecting the right contractors:

Experience in the local market
Expertise in different areas such as heat pumps, plumbing, and AC
Customer reviews
Guarantees and warranty

Consider additional perks, such as membership perks, when you sign up for contractor services. For instance, HPC Services offers a comprehensive membership package with numerous benefits, such as regular inspection and 15% off when getting routine services.

Choose the Right HVAC Install Services Today

The HVAC install process is crucial for enhancing the comfort you feel at home. While making it a do-it-yourself project can be cost-effective, you may make mistakes that will adversely affect the performance of the unit.

HPC Services offers comprehensive HVAC installation solutions from maintenance, repair, and installation. You can join our membership program to enjoy additional benefits such as regular inspections, plumbing, and cooling.

Kaitlin Hamilton