A more appropriate title for this post might be something like: “If I’m paying someone to install a new furnace for me, shouldn’t I be able to expect that they’re doing it properly?” …but that seemed like a mouthful. We also tossed around something like, “I had my new air conditioner installed by someone who charged me money to do so; doesn’t that mean it was done right?” Again, it seemed like a lot of words.
Most homeowners know that having your heating and cooling system properly installed is important. It’s just as important to understand what’s at risk when an HVAC system is installed poorly/too quickly/messily/or without the appropriate permits and licenses. This article aims to arm you with the information you need to make sure that you’re hiring a high-quality heating and cooling company with the HVAC skills required to get the job done right.
Cheap HVAC Installation
BUYER BEWARE:
PROMISES OF HVAC INSTALLATION ON THE CHEAP
Here’s the scenario: You’re in need of new heating or air conditioning/HVAC equipment. You google “HVAC companies near me” and begin to call around to schedule HVAC installation estimates. Looking through your pile of (at least 3!) quotes, you notice that one company’s quote is significantly less than all the others. “Great!,” you think, “this is one heck of a deal!”
Hold on a second; let’s think this through. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. This HVAC “expert” may claim to know a thing or two about duct work, and he may even be able to juggle wrenches while whistling your favorite tune. Before you say “yes” to seemingly cheap HVAC installation, consider all of the hidden costs that could come along with it. Improper installation of HVAC equipment will lead to expensive repairs, poor performance and high energy bills – and could even put your health at risk.
3 Common HVAC Installation Mistakes
We hate to beat the point, but HVAC equipment needs to be installed correctly in order to deliver high efficiency heating and cooling. Furthermore, a poor quality installation of even one component (like your furnace) can wreak havoc on your entire HVAC system (Air Conditioner, Air Purification System, Humidifier, etc). Here’s how:
#1 Oversizing/Undersizing – HVAC Calculation
HVAC systems come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Determining what system fits your space requires a complex formula and if the installer’s calculations are off, the results can be a high energy bill and uncomfortable living space. If the unit is too small, it’s likely that your desired indoor temperature will always be out of reach. The unit will run constantly, but you will be uncomfortable. If the unit is too large, the space will be conditioned too quickly. This will cause the unit to cycle on and off frequently, which in turn shortens the lifespan of your system. High indoor humidity will also be an issue with oversizing, leaving your home feeling clammy, and the potential for mold growth will undoubtedly increase.
If you want to know more about HVAC oversizing, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we give you the run down on oversizing and discuss frequently asked questions.
#2 Leaky Air Ducts
A professional HVAC installation includes a thorough inspection of the duct system. Installing an energy efficient system without making sure your ducts are properly sealed is pointless. That wrench juggling HVAC technician should include a duct inspection in his installation, but he might not. It’s better not to take your chances.
For what it’s worth, none of our technicians are great jugglers, but every single one of them is extremely qualified for their job, receive ongoing training and support, and follow a rigorous inspection protocol upon every install, service call, and maintenance appointment. We get that it sounds braggy, but our techs are the best in HVAC.
#3 Improper Refrigerant Charge
If your air conditioner is not installed with the proper refrigerant charge, you will have a problems. Low refrigerant charge can cause the oils of your AC system to ice over. This will cause your home to not be cooled properly. Furthermore, operating a system under these conditions will lead to more extensive damage. You may not notice an issue with an overcharged system until you get your first energy bill. An overcharged system will cool your home effectively, but it will struggle to run efficiently.
Heating & Air Conditioning for every budget
HIGH QUALITY, AFFORDABLE HVAC services
Our entire operation is built around one simple principle: deliver the highest quality and expertise, in the most efficient manner possible. We treat every job (big or small!) as though it is the most important one we have; each project gets our full attention -we do it right, the first time. Our focus on quality and efficiency helps us keep our costs low – and your savings high!
So, when it comes to proper HVAC installation, trust your instincts. Don’t leave it up to just anyone, and don’t assume that this is a job that you can do yourself. Our HVAC technicians are experienced, licensed, and have completed rigorous training. Installations are completed safely and in compliance with manufacturer specifications – in fact, we often find that our standards are even more stringent than the manufacturers! The bottom line? We guarantee that your system will be properly set-up and tuned for optimal performance.