Having A New AC System Installed? How The Installation Process Works
Posted on: 20 March 2023
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If you are replacing your AC system with a new one, the first thing the company does is determine the AC size you need for your home. This will depend on the size of your home and how many people live in the home. Once they do this, the HVAC service will come to your home to install your new system. To help you understand, below is information about the installation process of your new AC system so you will know what to expect.
Remove Existing AC Unit
The existing AC unit will first be removed. There are EPA standards the contractor must follow when removing the refrigerant from the system. This is because the contractor cannot open the refrigerant as it will get into the air. To remove the refrigerant the contractor uses a recovery machine device. The refrigerant is then disposed of lawfully.
The contractor will turn off the circuit breaker that powers the AC unit. They then disconnect the electrical wiring and remove the unit completely. They remove the old unit from your property to dispose of.
Prepare Area
The next step is preparing the area for the new AC unit. This may not be required in some cases. For example, there must be a pad in place, which is generally made of concrete, for the AC unit to sit on. It should never sit on the ground. This is because the unit will sink into the ground over time. If the pad is in bad condition, it will be removed and replaced with a new one. Your new AC unit may be larger than the older one and also may be taller and will need a stronger pad.
Before the contractor gets started, they will ensure the ground is level before installing the new pad. The pad may be concrete, or the contractor may choose a composite pad as it is more durable than concrete.
Remove Evaporator Coil and Refrigerant Lines
The contractor must remove the evaporator coil that is inside your home. This is generally located above your furnace, or it may sit below it. The evaporator coil is what the refrigerant lines connect to. In some cases, it can be difficult to access the evaporator coil so should only be done by a professional.
The contractor then removes the refrigerant lines inside your home. These lines are generally made of copper and may be strapped under the furnace. The contractor removes the straps and then removes the lines.
The contractor then installs your new AC unit by installing the new evaporator coil, refrigerant lines, and wiring. The AC unit is then connected and turned on. The contractor will ensure it is working properly before they leave.
To learn more about this process, contact an AC installation service in your area.