AC Replacement: How to Prepare and What to Expect

You might be replacing an old unit, or looking forward to an exciting upgrade. This guide will walk you through the AC replacement process and what to expect.

HVAC systems generally last between 15 to 25 years. After that, it will be time for a replacement.

If you're planning to replace your HVAC system, you need to know what to expect during the process. There are a few things that you'll need to do to get ready for the new installation and ensure that contractors can do great work in your home or building.

In this guide, we'll tell you how to prepare for an AC replacement and what you should expect from the process.

Choose a Great HVAC Installer

Before you get any work done on your broken AC system, you need to be sure that you choose a good installer. You'll want to make sure to compare your options carefully and ensure that the company you hire will do a good job.

Ensure that the company is licensed and insured. You'll also want to spend time reading online reviews and comparing quotes to ensure that you'll be happy with your decision.

It's very important that an AC installation is done by professionals, so make sure that you spend time looking for the right installers.

Prepare to Replace the Entire System

Before making any updates to your HVAC system, you should think carefully about what exactly it is that your home needs.

Even if only a certain part of your HVAC system, such as a compressor or air handler, is bad, it's usually a good idea to replace the whole system. This will help to ensure the best energy efficiency and help your HVAC unit function properly.

In addition to this, you'll want to consider getting a new thermostat as well. Especially if your current thermostat isn't smart or programmable, it can be a good idea to get a new thermostat that will allow you to use energy-efficient features and get the most out of your new system.

Get Your Ductwork Inspected

While replacing your entire AC system at once is usually a good idea, there's a good chance that your new system will make use of your existing ductwork. However, this isn't always the case.

It's important to determine whether your ductwork should be repaired or replaced as well. If the ductwork needs to be replaced, then HVAC crew members will need to navigate attics and crawl spaces. You'll need to be prepared for this.

Your system won't work as efficiently without ductwork that is in good condition since air loss could occur. It's important to have your ductwork inspected by a professional before making HVAC repairs or replacements. Be sure that you do this before the HVAC system installation begins.

Ask Your Contractor About the Length of the Replacement

It's important that you have an idea of how long the new AC replacement will take before work begins.

Many HVAC system replacements will only take a day to be completed. Some will take longer depending on the specific needs of your installation.

You should speak with your contractor after they arrive at the job site to find out about their assessment and how long it will take them. They'll be able to give you an idea of what to expect from the process and how long it may take for them to complete the work.

Clear the Area for Work

When preparing for an AC replacement, ensure that there's room for the HVAC crew to work effectively.

Make sure that there's a path for HVAC installers to use in your home to get to the area where the equipment will be installed. You should ensure that you have kept areas clean and free of blockages.

Also, move all items that are in the area away. This could include furniture and other household items that you don't want to get dusty. Anything that you're unable to move, you should cover up with plastic to protect it.

Let Your Household Know What to Expect

In addition to all of this, also be sure that you have a plan for any children or pets that you have in your home. It's a good idea to take them elsewhere during the installation so that they won't get in the way and so that no accidents will occur.

Also, ensure that everybody else in your household knows when the AC replacement will be so that they can be prepared for it.

Be Readily Available

Although you'll want to be sure that your kids and pets are out of the way of anyone who is working on your AC unit, you should make sure that you're available during the process.

You should be present when the job begins so that you can show the contractors around your home. You should also be ready to answer questions that contractors have about your HVAC installation and home as needed.

Make sure that you can be reached easily while HVAC professionals are working on your system so that you can ensure the job goes as smoothly as possible.

Plan for Additional Costs

Remember that unexpected things can happen during a new HVAC system installation. It's possible that there could be setbacks along the way and that contractors may come across issues that weren't identified during early inspections.

As mentioned above, you may need to get ductwork repaired unexpectedly or you could need drywall repairs, electrical fixes, and other repairs that weren't a part of your original written estimate.

It's typical for new costs to come up as the job goes on, so keep this in mind and be prepared. Have some extra money available in your budget just in case.

Following These Tips to Have a Successful AC Replacement

If you're planning to make an AC replacement, be sure that you prepare your home or building beforehand. Be sure to clear room for your contractors to work and know exactly what parts of the system and ductwork need replacing.

Ready to hire reliable AC professionals in South Florida? Contact us today to learn about how we can help.