The A to Z of Air Conditioner Installation: A Handyman's Guide
Cool as a cucumber, that's how you’ll feel after successfully installing your brand new air conditioner. As every great repairman will tell you, it’s not just knowing what to do but also knowing how long it should take. Let's dive right into the timeline and valuable tips to make your AC installation a breeze. Break out those tools and let's cool down.
Pre-Installation
Before we start, understand that time can be your best friend or worst enemy depending on the type of AC unit you’re installing. A window unit can take a DIYer like you anywhere from one to three hours, while a split or central air conditioning system can take up to a day or more. Don't get put off by this, You’ve got this!
Choosing the Right Unit
First, let's make sure you're working with the right tools for the job. You want to be the cool cat on the block, not the person who tried to install a skyscraper AC in a shoebox studio. So, match the square footage of your space to your unit's cooling capacity.
Prepping the Area
You wouldn't paint a wall without prepping it first, right? The same goes for AC installation. Make sure your window is sturdy and clean, or your wall has an appropriate hole for a split-system unit. It's also worth checking if your home’s electric service can handle the load. Using your trusty measuring tape, confirm the unit will fit snugly in the window or wall. We're off to a great start!
Installation Time
Unpack Your New Cooler
Your heart jumps a little, doesn’t it? That brand new AC still in its packaging, waiting to blast away the heat. Take your time and be delicate with your new friend, and don’t forget to check for damages or missing parts!
Secure the Unit
For window units, make sure you securely fasten the mounting hardware. Brace the unit from underneath if the window is above the first floor. For split systems, mount the indoor unit first and then the outdoor one. Safety first!
Make the Connections
Trust me, there's nothing worse than feeling like you’ve done a great job only to find your AC sputtering like a tired horse. Read the manual again (and again) and make sure you've connected everything properly. For split systems, you may need a pro to connect the refrigerant lines, but plugging in the electrical connections is all you.
Test Your Work
That's the moment you've been waiting for, folks! Time to fire up that bad boy and feel the sweet, icy embrace of your new favorite appliance.
Post-Installation
Installing an AC is like running a marathon. Your first instinct is to collapse, but that’s when you need to push on for that last push of post-installation cleanup.
Tidy Up
We both know how messy a DIY job can get. Find a home for those screws before they find a home in your foot! Recycle the packaging and put away your tools.
Add the Finishing Touches
Window AC needs to be insulated? Got any extra trim or weather-strips hanging around? Get them in place and give your unit a smooth, finished look. Trust me, it’ll look better, and it will help with performance.
Celebrate your New Cooler
Installations can be tiring, but there’s nothing quite like sitting back and enjoying the fruits of your labor. Pour yourself a cold one, kick back, and let your new AC envelop you in arctic chill.
There you have it! A step-by-step walk-through of the timeframe and procedures to install your AC. Your new frosty friend is ready for the summer heat. Remember, take your time, keep it cool, and trust in your inner DIY superhero. It’s not just about the destination; it’s about the journey. Stay cool and happy DIY-ing!