4 Common Mistakes People Make When Installing Air Conditioners

Installing an air conditioner is a significant investment in comfort and quality of life, especially in Newcastle's diverse climate. However, even the best air conditioning systems can underperform or fail prematurely if installed incorrectly. Mistakes during installation can lead to inefficiencies, higher energy bills, and frequent repairs. In this blog post, we’ll explore some common errors during AC installation and how to avoid them.

Size matters when it comes to air conditioners. A unit that’s too small will struggle to cool your space, leading to overwork and higher energy consumption. Conversely, an oversized unit can cool a room too quickly without properly dehumidifying it, creating an uncomfortable, clammy environment.

Here’s why size matters:

• Undersized units: Struggle to meet cooling demands, leading to constant operation and wear.
• Oversized units: Short cycling causes inefficient cooling and uneven temperatures.

To avoid these issues, consult a professional installer who can calculate your space's appropriate BTU (British Thermal Unit) capacity based on room size, insulation, and other factors. This ensures efficient cooling and maximises energy savings.

Placement is a critical factor in ensuring the effectiveness of your air conditioner. Poor indoor or outdoor unit positioning can lead to inefficiency, uneven cooling, and higher energy bills.

Key placement considerations:

• Indoor units: Install in central, open areas to distribute cool air evenly. Avoid placing near heat sources or obstructions like furniture.
• Outdoor units: Choose shaded and well-ventilated spots to improve performance and reduce strain on the system. Avoid installing near bushes or walls that can block airflow.

A professional installer can assess your space to determine the optimal locations for your AC units, ensuring peak performance year-round.

Air conditioners have specific electrical requirements that must be met for safe and efficient operation. Overlooking these requirements can lead to circuit overloads, tripped breakers, or even electrical hazards.

Common electrical issues include:

• Insufficient circuit capacity to handle the load.
• Outdated wiring systems that can’t support modern AC units.
• Incorrect voltage connections causing malfunctions.

Professional installers check your home’s electrical system to ensure compatibility. If necessary, they upgrade circuits or wiring to meet the unit’s specifications and comply with safety standards.

While DIY installation might seem like a cost-saving option, it often results in expensive mistakes. Even small errors in sealing, mounting, or wiring without proper training can lead to inefficient operation or serious safety risks.

Common DIY pitfalls:

• Poorly sealed ducts leading to energy loss.
• Incorrect refrigerant levels causing system strain.
• Improper mounting leading to noise and vibration issues.

Hiring a certified installer ensures your air conditioner is set up according to manufacturer guidelines. This preserves the unit’s warranty and provides safety and efficiency.

Avoiding common installation mistakes is crucial for the efficiency and longevity of your air conditioning system. At Coolrite Air Conditioning, we bring over 40 years of expertise to ensure your unit is installed correctly, providing you with peace of mind and optimal comfort. Don't let installation errors compromise your comfort. Reach out to us today!