Whether you’re installing a new HVAC system or replacing an existing one, the costs can soon add up. The last thing you want after investing all that money is to make mistakes that can mean spending more money in the future.
Unprofessional HVAC installers can make mistakes during the installation process. The only way to avoid HVAC installation mistakes is to identify the potential problems before they get made.
So, before start the installation process, you should identify these mistakes and try to avoid them.
1. Working With Inexperienced Installer
Choosing a wrong installer is a common mistake many people make. It’s not always easy to know if your installer is not experienced because, as usual, they will tell you they’re the best. If you carry out due diligence, you can pick out an experienced one from an amateur.
Don’t be swayed by the lowest bidder. Most inexperienced installers are just getting their feet into the market and will accept the lowest budget to gain the experience. You don’t want them practicing with your expensive system, do you?
Do your research; check the reviews, ask for testimonials, and get the credentials before settling with an installer.
2. Wrong Unit Size HVAC Installation Mistakes
Forget the misconception that bigger HVAC unit sizes are the best because this will be the beginning of your worst installation mistake. Choosing a bigger system than the cooling or heating required in your home is a waste of money. Since you’re not a professional, you won’t know which size is best for you.
You need to seek the services of a qualified HVAC system installer to help you pick the right size. Your installer will consider your home’s capacity and the efficiency of the heating and cooling of the system. You need an accurate amount of airflow and save on your electric bills as well.
3. Replacing Parts of the System
When it comes to HVAC system replacement, homeowners want to save as much as they can. They end up replacing the damaged parts but leave the rest. This is a big mistake that will cost a lot in the long run.
The AC system comes in different parts, namely, the outdoor and the indoor equipment. The inside part also consists of different components, including the fans, blowers, and coils. You also find the condenser unit on the outside.
All these are designed to work together, but they can get damaged at different times. Just because the fan is damaged and the blowers still working doesn’t mean you only replace the fan. Replacing specific parts and leaving the rest only leaves you with a mix-and-match system that might not operate as efficiently as it should.
4. Purchasing the Cheapest System
No one will blame you for having a limited budget to cater for the equipment and the cost of installation. However, you know that you only get what you pay for, and the cheapest might not be the best standard.
A cheap HVAC system contains poor quality parts made from the cheapest materials in the market. Your HVAC system should serve you a long time, but you’re not going to get that by purchasing substandard equipment.
A poor-quality system will either get damaged faster or not provide efficient airflow. You may also end up digging deeper into your pockets more often to repair and maintain your system. You should compare prices from different manufacturers and understand the price ranges before closing the purchase.
5. Poor Air Distribution Design
Your duct system’s correct design is vital for the heating and cooling of air around your house. Your furnace and air conditioner will only do half the job; the remaining part is done by your duct system. You, therefore, need a good design of your duct system for efficient airflow.
You need a duct size that matches that of the output capacity of the unit. Make sure the duct is not leaking, and you get perfect air for heating and cooling. Avoid using the old duct system when installing new equipment.
6. Incorrect Refrigerant
Using incorrect refrigerant for your AC system can wreak havoc in the future. The wrong refrigerant can cause serious failures and costly repairs. This can also lower the efficiency of your system.
Condensation in the system will interfere with the normal flow through the piping and cause a built up in the outdoor coil. When this happens, the compressor will use too much power, lower the heat transfer, and cause higher pressures.
7. Incorrect Piping HVAC Installation Mistakes
Some contractors make the mistake of using long pipes to connect the indoor and outdoor units of the system. When this happens, the air conditioner will have difficulty providing sufficient cooling.
You need shorter pipes to connect the central AC system so that you avoid using too much energy to complete the cooling cycle. Longer pipes make the AC system run continuously which drains too much energy and hikes the power bills.
8. Not Getting the Permits
It’s risky to start installing your HVAC without acquiring the right permits. Every state has its guidelines and policies regarding AC system installation. Refusing or forgetting to follow these rules to the letter will see you pay fines and delay your work.
Before beginning the work, make sure you check with your permitting officer and get the go-ahead before proceeding. If you don’t know where to acquire the HVAC system installation permits, you should consider liaising with your installer to guide you.
Take Your Time, Research, and Avoid the Mistakes
You cannot take chances when it comes to the installation of your HVAC system. Many homeowners and installers make HVAC installation mistakes out of ignorance or failure to carry out the necessary research. They then end up spending a lot of money for a replacement, maintenance, or even hiked power bills.
That’s not going to be the case if you choose to work with experts from Jerry’s Heating and Cooling LLC. Our experts understand everything about the cooling and heating systems in your home and ensure you get the best service.
Get in touch with us for expert advice on your installation needs, and you’ll never regret it.
