Summer in Australia is no joke, and neither is a cooling system. If you’re still using an old, heavy, and outdated model that whines and whirs when you turn it on, mate, it could be costing you a lot more than you think, be it in power bills, comfort, or future headaches. This guide will take you through the importance of a high-efficiency air conditioner installation, what to expect during an air conditioner installation, and how to select the right type to fit your home or business.
A Brief Answer For Those In A Hurry
Installing an air conditioner can save you on operating expenses, improve air quality, help reduce the incidence of breakdowns, and may even allow you to save on energy rebates. There are several different types of main installation, such as split system, ducted, bulkhead, window/wall, and portable units, all of which have different options depending on the home and the budget. Correct sizing and installation are important since an improper size or installation can reduce a unit’s efficiency by as much as 30%.
Understanding Air Conditioner Installation
Air conditioner installation refers to the entire procedure of installing the air conditioner (and sometimes heating) unit, from preparing the environment to connecting it. It includes site assessment, sizing the unit for the room, installing electrical and refrigerant lines, installing indoor and outdoor components, and testing the system before handoff.
There are two terms that you will hear frequently:
Split system air conditioner installation
This one consists of two components: an indoor and outdoor unit mounted on the wall, with a compressor, connected by pipes carrying the refrigerant. This is the most typical Australian home configuration as it is flexible, relatively quiet and operates on a room-by-room basis.
Bulkhead air conditioner installation
The units are recessed into a specially designed bulkhead (false ceiling or wall space), keeping them flush with the ceiling or wall and not projecting into the room. A good option for people who prefer a more discreet and clean appearance, particularly in more recent construction or renovations.
A bulkhead is just one of many ways this type of system could be styled and placed, both of which are covered under the “split system” umbrella.
Why Do You Need to Hire a Professional?
This one is easy; you may feel tempted to think that an air conditioner is like a table fan: plug it in and off you go. Not quite. It’s important to get it installed correctly for the following reasons:
1. Ensure the right size and avoid wasting energy
If the unit is too large, it will cool the room rapidly and will turn off before moisture is extracted, creating a “clammy” environment. One that is too small runs all the time and will wear out prematurely. This is determined by a licensed installer who does a room size calculation, insulation, sun exposure, and ceiling height.
2. Refrigerant handling requires a licence
One of the most common causes of poor performance is incorrect refrigerant charge. Doing this in Australia is not a job for the layperson, but must be done by a licensed technician.
3. Warranty protection
In most cases, warranties will be invalid if a certified technician did not install the unit. Warranties are likely to be voided if a trained technician did not perform installation.
4. Running costs
If the highly efficient unit is installed correctly, it will consume considerably less energy over its lifetime compared to an improperly installed highly efficient unit of the same star rating. The other half of the equation is installation.
5. Safety and compliance
Compliance with Australian Standards is essential for electrical connections, safe installation on the outside wall, and condensate drainage, or you can have problems ranging from water damage to electrical problems.
Different Types of Air Conditioning Installation
Split System Air Conditioner Installation
A staple of Australian households. No ductwork to deal with, one compressor outside and one (or more) inside! Ideal for renovating or houses where complete ducting is not feasible.
Bulkhead Air Conditioner Installation
If you’ve ever walked into a home and thought, Where is the AC? Then the answer is: It’s in a bulkhead! This requires additional framing and plastering work in the upfront stages of building, but results in a tidier finish; it is a popular option in newer homes and higher-end renovations.
Ducted Air Conditioning
The main unit, concealed ductwork and vents are distributed across the ceiling. Ideal choice when cooling a whole home, and you don’t want any units to be visible. More expensive initially, but may be more effective for an entire house than multiple air systems.
Multi-Split Systems
Multiple heads installed indoors and served by a single outdoor unit. Multiple heads in different rooms with one outdoor unit. Useful if you want zoned control and don’t want to fill the yard with additional outdoor compressors.
Window and Portable Units
The budget and rental-friendly choices. Not as efficient over the long haul, but no permanent installation is needed for temporary use.
Real Benefits of Going High-Efficiency
- Saves on electric costs: The higher the star rating, the more efficient energy use it provides while delivering the same cooling effect.
- Proper moisture removal: Effective systems do a better job of removing moisture from the air than blowing cold air.
- Smoother operation: Modern inverter-driven compressors function more quietly than the older fixed-speed compressors.
- Less strain on systems: Efficient systems put less stress on parts and fewer call-outs over the years.
- Heating or cooling efficiency added to resale value: Today’s buyers are putting a lot more thought into the energy efficiency of a home.
- Energy efficiency: If there is less electricity use, there is less impact on the carbon footprint.
Do a Self Check Before Getting Your AC Installation
Consider the following before calling someone out:
- Have you got a unit over 10-12 years old?
- Feeling like your energy costs are going up, but your consumption hasn’t?
- Do one or more rooms in your home never feel a comfortable temperature?
- Do you detect any odd smells, leaks, or noises?
- Planning a renovation or a new room to be built that requires separate climate control?
If you nodded at two or more, you may need a professional assessment of the situation, rather than putting up with the current setup again.