Why Hiring an HVAC Professional for Air Conditioning Installation is So Important

DIY is huge these days, but some things should be left to professionals – for good reason. Installing your air conditioner is one of them. A professionally installed and maintained air conditioner will give you peace of mind and many years of worry-free service. An improperly installed air conditioner could easily cost you more (in money, time and headaches) than investing in expert installation.

Your HVAC professional will:

• Choose the right size unit.
  The size of the unit directly correlates to its function and efficiency. Too small and it won’t cool your home satisfactorily. Too large and you are paying for more than you need. In both cases, inefficiency can lead to higher utility bills. A professional AC contractor will perform a precise heating and cooling load calculation that factors in windows, roofs, walls, and insulation levels,as well as square footage. These measurements are unique to each home and determine the appropriate size air conditioner for your home.
• Install the unit correctly the first time.
  Faulty installation leads to costly problems. At worst the entire air conditioner can fail. At best, the money you save up front can be quickly eaten up and then some by higher energy costs and repeated service calls. Utility bills can jump as much as 30% due to incorrect installation.
• Inspect and evaluate your air ducts.
  Ensuring that your ducts are in good shape (no leaks or blockages) and that they are adequate for your new air conditioner is an important part of installation. Damaged or inadequate air ducts prevent enough cool air from reaching your home’s interior. As a result of improper airflow, the system will run longer and harder than it should.
• Keep your air conditioning running well for many years.
  An air conditioner is a big investment, and one that functions poorly due to improper installation will very likely have a drastically reduced useful life. The added cost of professional installation and regular maintenance will insure that you get the most out your investment.

Choosing the right HVAC professional is the first step to successful installation. Know what to ask:

• Are their technicians NATE certified – the industry’s standard for technician excellence?
• Do employees receive continuing education to keep up with this fast-changing industry? (Ask for a description of their training program.)
• Does the company offer a service agreement plan?
• Does your contractor understand “Manual J” (the industry standard for determining the correct size of your air conditioner and complies with current building codes) and “ANSI/ACCA Quality Installation Specification”?

In addition

• Ask for local references. Call them and ask specific questions about the services provided by the contractor.
• Ask to see proof of proper licenses and insurance.

You can count on the experts at IAQ for your professional A/C installation and all your heating and cooling needs. Call us today!