What to Have Inspected During an HVAC Installation

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The technicians who arrive to perform an HVAC installation in your home are experienced professionals with industry-recognized credentials. Certain preliminaries may already be completed before installation day. “Sizing” is a technical procedure that ensures a new unit has the precise BTU specifications to efficiently, effectively cool or heat your home. Also prior to HVAC installation, the condition of existing ductwork is typically inspected for leakage or other issues.

Ask your contractor about the critical aspects of installing a new furnace or air conditioner. Here are some routine steps that occur during an HVAC installation that you’ll want to be aware of:

  • Refrigerant check. A new central AC needs to be charged with the precise amount of refrigerant per the manufacturer’s specification. Technicians use detectors to check for refrigerant leakage during the initial test operation.

  • Condensate drainage. A central air conditioner generates many gallons of liquid condensate in daily operation. Installation of a new AC condensate system includes testing the drip pan and pipe that drains condensate into the home's plumbing. 

  • Thermostat location and wiring. The thermostat for the new unit should be situated away from  direct sunlight or near exterior doors that admit hot or cold drafts. If upgrading from a standard manual model to a new programmable thermostat, additional wiring will be needed.

  • Electrical connections. A new AC or furnace incorporates wiring, contacts, capacitors, and relays that technicians will test for continuity and safe operation. Also, the central air-conditioner compressor will require a dedicated 220-volt circuit.  

  • Outdoor matters. The outdoor component of a central AC must be situated to minimize accumulating leaves, falling ice, or other debris. Unit should be slightly elevated above ground level to avoid inundation during heavy rain.

  • Safe heating. A new gas furnace should be tested for hazardous carbon monoxide levels during operation. Safety components that shut off the unit in case of overheating or other malfunction should also be verified. Also, the vent pipe for a standard gas furnace should extend to the roof without leaks or obstruction. 

For more about the steps involved in a professional HVAC installation, contact the heating and cooling pros at Air Assurance.