Installing a new air conditioning (AC) unit can feel like a big win—especially during a scorching summer. But here’s the catch: who you choose to install your AC can make or break the experience.
Opting for an unqualified installer might seem like a way to save money, but in reality, it often leads to headaches, unexpected costs, and a system that doesn’t perform as it should.
When it comes to AC Installation Lakewood CO, expertise isn’t just a bonus—it’s a necessity.
Let’s explore the things that could go wrong when you don’t hire an expert and why it pays to trust a seasoned professional.
1. Incorrect Sizing of the AC Unit
One of the first steps in an AC installation is determining the right size unit for your space. This isn’t about the physical size of the unit but its cooling capacity, measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units).
When you work with a professional, they perform a detailed calculation—called a load calculation—that factors in square footage, insulation, number of windows, and even the direction your home faces. An inexperienced installer may skip this critical step, leading to:
- An Undersized AC Unit: If the unit is too small, it will struggle to cool your space, leading to constant overwork and high energy bills.
- An Oversized AC Unit: If the unit is too large, it will cool the space too quickly without properly dehumidifying, leaving you with a clammy, uncomfortable environment.
Bottom line? Incorrect sizing means inefficient cooling and unnecessary costs.
2. Poor Ductwork Design and Installation
Your AC is only as effective as the ductwork that delivers the cool air. Poorly designed or installed ducts can result in:
- Uneven Cooling: Some rooms may feel like iceboxes while others remain uncomfortably warm.
- Energy Loss: Leaky or improperly sealed ducts can waste up to 30% of the cool air your system produces, leading to higher energy bills.
- Noisy Operation: Bad ductwork design can cause whistling or rattling noises every time the AC runs.
Experts know how to plan and install ductwork for maximum efficiency and comfort. Skip the expertise, and you might end up with a system that’s frustrating to use.
3. Refrigerant Issues
Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your AC system, and handling it improperly can lead to serious problems. An unqualified installer may:
- Overcharge or Undercharge the Refrigerant: Too much or too little refrigerant can reduce your AC’s efficiency, damage the compressor, or cause the system to freeze up.
- Cause Refrigerant Leaks: Improper connections or handling can lead to leaks, which are not only harmful to the environment but also expensive to fix.
Licensed professionals are trained to handle refrigerants safely and precisely, ensuring your system runs smoothly and adheres to environmental regulations.
4. Improper Electrical Connections
AC systems require proper electrical wiring to operate safely and efficiently. An inexperienced installer might:
- Use the Wrong Wiring: Incorrect wiring can lead to shorts, tripped breakers, or even electrical fires.
- Skip Grounding the Unit: Without proper grounding, your AC system is at risk of electrical surges that can damage the unit or pose safety risks to your home.
- Install the Wrong Breaker Size: Mismatched breakers can either fail to protect your system or trip constantly, causing unnecessary frustration.
Hiring a professional ensures that your system is wired according to code, minimizing risks and maximizing reliability.
5. Poor Placement of the AC Unit
Where your AC unit is installed matters more than you might think. A novice installer might place the unit:
- Too Close to Walls or Obstacles: This restricts airflow, forcing the system to work harder and reducing its lifespan.
- In Direct Sunlight: An outdoor unit placed in direct sunlight can overheat, lowering efficiency and driving up energy costs.
- Without Proper Clearance: Units need space to breathe; otherwise, they can overheat or fail prematurely.
A professional understands the nuances of placement and ensures the unit is positioned for optimal performance and longevity.
6. Drainage Problems
AC systems produce condensation, which must be properly drained. Poor installation can lead to:
- Clogged or Improperly Sloped Drain Lines: Water may back up into your home, causing damage to ceilings, walls, or floors.
- Mold Growth: Stagnant water from poor drainage is a breeding ground for mold, which can affect your indoor air quality and health.
- System Shutdowns: Many modern AC units have safety features that shut the system down if a drainage issue is detected, leaving you without cooling until it’s fixed.
Experienced installers know how to set up drainage systems that prevent these problems from occurring.
7. Voided Warranties
Here’s something many homeowners don’t realize: most AC manufacturers require professional installation for the warranty to remain valid.
If you choose an inexperienced installer—or attempt a DIY job—you risk voiding the warranty. That means if something goes wrong, you’ll be left covering the full cost of repairs or replacement.
8. Higher Long-Term Costs
While hiring an unqualified installer might save you money upfront, it often costs more in the long run. This short-term thinking is often linked to what some call a poverty mentality meaning, a mindset where immediate savings are prioritized over future benefits, even if it ends up being more costly in the end.
Here’s why cutting corners can backfire:
- Frequent Repairs: Poor installation can lead to recurring problems that require professional intervention.
- Reduced Efficiency: A poorly installed system uses more energy, driving up your utility bills month after month.
- Shorter Lifespan: Improper installation can cause premature wear and tear, meaning you’ll need to replace the system sooner than expected.
By overcoming a poverty mindset and seeing professional installation as an investment rather than a cost, you’re setting yourself up for fewer headaches, lower expenses, and better performance in the long term.
Investing in a qualified expert from the start is truly the smarter financial decision.
Why Expertise Matters
Air conditioning installation is a complex process that requires knowledge, precision, and experience. Professionals follow industry standards, ensure compliance with local codes, and pay attention to details that amateurs might overlook.
Additionally, experienced installers can offer valuable advice on system maintenance, energy efficiency, and how to maximize your unit’s performance over its lifespan.
How to Choose the Right Installer
To avoid these pitfalls, take the time to find a qualified installer. Here are a few tips:
- Check Credentials: Look for certifications, licenses, and insurance.
- Read Reviews: Customer feedback can provide insights into the installer’s reliability and expertise.
- Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask about their experience, process, and warranties.
Wrapping It Up: Don’t Cut Corners
Installing an AC system is a significant investment, and the stakes are high. While it might be tempting to cut costs by hiring an inexperienced installer, the potential problems far outweigh the savings.
From poor performance to safety risks and higher long-term expenses, the consequences can be costly and stressful.
Choosing an expert ensures your system is installed correctly, efficiently, and safely—giving you peace of mind and cool comfort for years to come. So, take your time, do your research, and make the right choice. Your home (and wallet) will thank you.
With three years of experience in celebrity blogging, I share insightful content on the world’s most famous personalities through my personal blog, FameRevUp.