Aircon Installation – Top 5 Things to Consider

Air conditioning is crucial in keeping our homes comfortable and liveable all year round. Whether you’re looking at aircon installation for the first time or replacing an existing unit, it’s important to make the right decisions at the start.

There are plenty of choices on the market and a number of factors to consider before taking those vital steps towards achieving climate control. From the many types of air conditioners available to the number of rooms you want to heat or cool, there’s a lot to ponder.

Here are the top 5 factors to consider in aircon installation, which will help you get the most out of your new system.

1. Do I Need Professional Installation?

Proper aircon installation is essential for the optimal performance and efficiency of your air conditioning unit. It is not only highly recommended to have your air conditioner professionally installed, in most cases it is a legal requirement.

Aircon installation involves working with your electrical system, cabling, refrigerant, duct work, safety switches and may even require extra power outlets. It is mandatory around Australia for this kind of work to be done by qualified technicians.

The exceptions to the rule are window air conditioners and portable heaters and coolers. In the case of window ACs, it is highly recommended to use mounting brackets and attach the side of the unit to the window frame so that it is more secure. If you’re unsure about installing one of these units, consult a professional.

2. What’s It Going to Cost?

The overall cost of aircon installation is going to be determined by the type of air conditioner purchased and how much of the house you aim to heat or cool.

The factors to consider if you’re wondering about the overall cost of aircon installation include:

• Make and model of air conditioner
• Size of air conditioner
• Number of units being installed
• Upgrading the switch board (if necessary)
• Piping and interconnecting cables necessary
• Installation of ducting (if necessary)
• The rate you’re paying for labour
• Ease of access to your property

Each property and the air conditioning required will vary, so try to get a fixed price so you know what to expect on your final bill. That will take some of the stress out of aircon installation.

3. Types of Air Conditioning Systems

The type of system you choose for aircon installation will be determined by the type of property you live in, the space you wish to heat and cool and your budget limitations.

Given the extremes of Australian weather, most of us require heating and cooling, so let’s take a look at reverse cycle systems. Among the AC units to consider are:

• Split system air conditioner – The most popular type of system in Australia. Ideal for heating and cooling one room or a large area.
• Multi-head split system – An ideal choice for heating and cooling multiple rooms. You can start with a single split system and add extra units as you need them (or your budget allows).
• Ducted air conditioning – More expensive upfront, but it will heat and cool as many rooms as you choose operated by a zoning system which means you only have to run the rooms that are required.
• Cassette air conditioner – A type of split system. These are usually used in office buildings but are also ideal for larger homes. Delivers 360° hot or cool air through ceiling units.
• Window/wall air conditioner – A good choice for those on a tight budget or renting. Easy to install and effective for a small space.
• Portable air conditioner – Not as effective as a split system or ducted system but there’s no installation required and it can be moved from room to room (also ideal for someone who is renting). Suited to a smaller space, such as an apartment or townhouse.

There are other ways to heat or cool your home, of course, such as evaporative cooling, gas heating and hydronic heating, which you may wish to consider if you’re not in the market for a reverse cycle system.

4. Choosing the Right Location

The location of your air conditioner is crucial for its performance and efficiency. The ideal location is in a position where the unit can breathe and be able to pull and expel air efficiently without obstruction.

This will help to keep the unit cool and prevent it from overheating, which can lead to poor performance and increased energy consumption (meaning higher energy bills for you).

It is also crucial to ensure that the unit is installed on a stable and level surface, as this will prevent it from vibrating excessively and potentially causing damage to your property. Before aircon installation, make sure you consult with your heating and cooling specialist.

5. What Size Unit Do I Need?

The size of your air conditioning unit is another prime factor to consider before buying. If the unit is too small for the space it is intended to heat and cool, it will struggle to maintain the desired temperature and will run continuously, resulting in increased energy consumption and a shorter lifespan for the unit.

On the other hand, if the unit is too large for the space, it will cycle on and off frequently, which will lead to similar results. That’s why it’s recommended to have a professional technician perform a load calculation to determine the proper size for your specific needs before aircon installation.

In Conclusion

The correct installation of your air conditioning system is essential for optimal performance, energy efficiency and longevity. By considering the top 5 tips outlined above before aircon installation, you can ensure that your new heating and cooling system is installed correctly and provides the best level of climate control for your home.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.