Air Conditioning
AC Installation in San Antonio, TX

We understand that getting a new cooling system isn’t an everyday occurrence. The process can feel overwhelming at times, but with the right information, you’ll know what to expect. Whether you’re installing a new AC unit or replacing your old one, you don’t want any surprises to ruin your experience.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioner

The first step in the AC installation process is choosing the right system for your home. Our team supports you in this step by evaluating your cooling needs, the size and layout of your home, your level of insulation, and the occupancy of your home. We then perform complex calculations to determine the best size cooling system for your needs.

If your air conditioner is too large, it won’t cool efficiently. Your energy bills will be higher, and the system could be vulnerable to damage. It might be unable to cool you properly, and it may be prone to short-cycling and unable to reach your desired temperature and humidity levels.

On the other hand, if your air conditioner is too small, it will struggle to keep you comfortable. It will run constantly to reach your desired temperatures and will be more vulnerable to excessive wear and tear and more likely to break down prematurely.

After we size your air conditioner unit, we will further narrow your options by explaining the SEER ratings of the available models. This rating reveals the efficiency of the air conditioner. The higher the number, the more efficient the unit is, which helps keep monthly utility bills low and affordable.

Once we find the right AC, we’ll give you a detailed estimate that includes costs, labor charges, and materials.

At this point, we simply need to find the perfect location for both the indoor evaporator and the outdoor condenser. We will consider airflow, shade, noise levels, and accessibility for maintenance, among other factors. We also look at your ductwork and discuss any necessary modifications.

Preparing Your Home

We encourage you to schedule a full day for the installation. This will cover any unforeseen circumstances. While we do our best to make the installation process quick and efficient, delays can occur. The average installation takes approximately four to eight hours, depending on the type of AC and the complexity of the project.

For the best results, clear the work area to ensure our technician will have easy access to the condenser and air handler. They may need to get to your electrical panel, attic, or crawl space, if necessary. Make sure there are clear pathways for moving tools and equipment.

Move furniture, decorations, and any other obstructions. This includes moving any outdoor furniture or plants that may be in the way. While our team will wear shoe coverings and use drop cloths, consider moving fragile items out of the way and covering your furniture with cloths to protect against dust and debris.

We’ll need to inspect your ductwork, too. We check it for leaks, damage, and blockages. Our team will make any necessary repairs. Having us clean the ducts ahead of time will provide optimal airflow for your new AC.

The installation of new HVAC systems can strain older electrical systems, so for your safety and the safety of your home, we encourage homeowners to talk to electricians before installing new AC units. An electrician can inspect the electrical panel and wiring to ensure it can support the new cooling system and perform any needed upgrades. Be aware that we may shut off your power during the installation, so plan ahead.

On Installation Day

On installation day, be available to meet our technicians and provide them access to the work areas in your home and on your property. You’ll also want to be there to answer any questions they have and address any concerns. Not only is being home helpful to us, but it also provides you with an opportunity to observe the process and ask any questions you may have. Feel free to discuss any specific needs or worries you may have before work begins. This will help everyone avoid misunderstandings.

Secure pets in a separate area to help minimize disruptions and ensure safety. Keep children away from the installation area to ensure safety and prevent injuries.

The first step of the installation is for our cooling service technicians to carefully remove your old cooling system and dispose of it properly. This includes disconnecting the ductwork and electrical wiring. We also properly capture and dispose of the refrigerant, according to environmental regulations.

Next, we can install the new equipment. The indoor evaporator will be installed along with the outdoor condenser, which must be on a level surface. The refrigerant line connects the two. We’ll need to properly insulate the line, too. We then make all of the electrical wiring connections to ensure safe and efficient operation. One of the last steps involves installing the condensate drain line to handle the moisture the AC will generate, ensuring proper drainage and preventing water damage.

After the Installation

After we complete the installation, we clean up our work area and remove all debris. Then we’ll test the cooling system to make sure it’s operating correctly. We’ll check the airflow, cooling performance, and thermostat accuracy. We even check the refrigerant levels and make any essential adjustments.

Our service doesn’t end here. We realize this cooling system may be quite different than your previous AC. We’ll explain how this model works and review its features so you fully understand how to operate the system and can get the most from all its features. We even explain how to set the thermostat effectively.

Finally, we review your warranty coverage and explain the best time to schedule annual maintenance. Many manufacturers require a routine tune-up to maintain the warranty. You don’t want to face costly repairs only to find the warranty is no longer active. Our maintenance also helps ensure the longevity of your new cooling system and keeps it operating at peak performance.

Don’t let the prospect of a new AC installation cause you any worries. Here at Air Authority, A Riteway Service Company, we’re dedicated to keeping you and your family safe and comfortable year-round. We’re locally owned and operated with over 30 years of experience when it comes to keeping San Antonio residents cool. When you reach out to us for an AC installation, you’ll be our top priority.

This will show in the service we provide. We offer high-quality systems from leading name brands, such as Carrier, but if you need an AC repair, we work on all makes and models. We offer financing on approved credit. Once the installation is complete, we keep your AC running efficiently and effectively with our routine AC maintenance service. As your local cooling expert, we’re proud of our affiliation with the Texas Air Conditioning Contractor Association and our BBB accreditation.

Call Air Authority, A Riteway Service Company today to learn more about our AC installation and service.

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