HVAC installation is a very sensitive and important process. It requires perfection and handling with care. Without proper knowledge, if you try to install it, you may ruin the system and reduce its efficiency. So, investing in professional air conditioner installation services can reduce the risk of damage and provide you with optimum results. Professionals can also ensure whether the HVAC is perfect for your home and requirements. This will help you gain efficiency and reduce energy consumption too.
Common DIY or Non-professional Installation Mistakes
For efficient operations, you must correctly install the HVAC. However, homeowners often try DIY methods or hire non-professionals to save some money. It is a big mistake because you will suffer from inefficient performance and higher energy bills later.
The size of your HVAC should be compatible with your house. Even if you rely on non-professionals, they often don’t calculate the required size and assume a wrong-sized HVAC for your home. This turns into installing an oversized or undersized HVAC which is the most common reason for inefficiency.
People often use inexpensive and low-quality materials for sealing the ducts. Moreover, many non-professionals design the ductwork with too many bends and turns. These lead to air leaks which ultimately reduce the efficiency of the system.
Homeowners usually do not know about charging the refrigerant. Also, non-professionals may overcharge or undercharge the refrigerant as they do not have expertise and precise tools. It leads to the damage of the compressor and wastes energy.
Another common mistake is placing the thermostat in an inappropriate area. It can be somewhere sunlight reaches directly, near appliances, or on exterior walls. In such places, the thermostat may show inaccurate readings. Francis Kaspar, an HVAC professional, suggests placing the thermostat away from such areas.
Many non-professionals skip duct insulation which is another mistake as it makes the system inefficient and operations costly.
You may lack the proper safety required for electrical connections in DIY methods. Also, improper drainage setup can cause potential damage to the system.
Many non-professionals skip system testing which also leads to inefficiency of the system.
These mistakes indicate that it would be better to leave the HVAC installation to a professional like The Chill Brothers.
Reasons Why Professionals Are Preferred
We have covered the downsides of DIY or non-professional installations. Here’s what an HVAC professional follows for a proper installation:
1. Manual J Load Calculations for Proper Size
Experts like Francis Kaspar conduct Manual J load calculations before air conditioner installation. This calculation mainly determines the appropriate size of the HVAC required for your home on the basis of some important factors. The factors include the square footage of the house, the ceiling’s height, the number of windows, the number of occupants, insulation, climate, etc.
Through this calculation, professionals find out the best-suited HVAC for you. As the system perfectly covers your house, it will not waste energy and serve you efficiently
.2. Design Ducts with Manual D Calculations
HVAC professionals design ductwork with Manual D calculations. These calculations are designed to maximize airflow and reduce energy waste.
Manual D usually helps to create a duct layout that is perfect for your home, avoids too many bends and turns, seals leaks, and maintains a balanced airflow.
Non-professionals can’t ensure such duct designs. Moreover, poor sealing can lose 20% to 30% of air which makes the system inefficient.
3. Select Appropriate Equipment
An HVAC professional always picks appropriate equipment as per Manual S. When the equipment matches the calculated requirements, your system operates well and reduces unnecessary strain. This ultimately lowers energy bills and brings efficiency.
4. Focus on Air Distribution and Vent Placement
Proper air distribution and vent placement ensure balanced airflow and keep the temperature consistent. So, professionals rely on Manual T for placing vents and distributing air evenly. They avoid hot or cold stops for vent placements. It reduces uneven temperature and airflow while providing efficiency.
5. Charge the Refrigerant as Per Requirement
Certified professionals charge the refrigerant accurately. It is required for efficient performance and longevity of your system.
Professionals like The Chill Brothers measure the refrigerant level accurately with specific tools. They identify the refrigerant type correctly and charge the refrigerant according to specific requirements. They also perform leak tests to ensure there will not be any refrigerant loss.
6. Place the Thermostat in an Appropriate Location
As thermostat placement affects the temperature readings, experts place it in an optimal location. They avoid places where direct sunlight falls, near heat sources, or on any exterior walls. Non-professionals may not consider such delicate matters.
7. Install a Sloped or Condensate Drain Pan
A sloped drain pan is required to flow the condensation away or moisture from your HVAC. Not installing a drain pan or improperly installing it can lead to mold growth, unpleasant odors, and potential damage to your HVAC. So, professionals install a condensate drain pan to keep the system efficient.
8. Test and Balance the System
It is an essential and mostly ignored step while ensuring the efficiency of the HVAC. Testing the system figures out if it is performing as intended or not. That’s why professionals test the system thoroughly after installation and check the key performance metrics. They also tune up and balance different settings if required.
This is how professionals install an HVAC which is not possible by any DIY method or by any non-professionals. That’s why professional HVAC installation matters for efficiency.
Choosing the Right HVAC Professional: Choose the Best Service for the Best Outcome
As you know why professional HVAC installation matters for efficiency, non-professional or DIY processes are not an option anymore. But homeowners get confused about whom to pick for the best outcome.
To choose the right HVAC professional for installing your HVAC,
Check their license and certifications
Find out if they are experienced with your specific HVAC installation
Check whether they have transparency in pricing
Find customer reviews.
Also, you can rely on what your friends or family recommend. Professionals like The Chill Brothers are certified and experienced with various types of HVAC installation. Francis Kaspar and other HVAC technicians carefully handle the installation process with specific tools. Moreover, you’ll find great reviews of them. So, invest in an HVAC professional wisely and allow yourself to try the best services for your HVAC.