Your Complete AC Installation Journey
Installing a new air conditioner is a significant home improvement project. Understanding what to expect helps you prepare and ensures a smooth installation. Here’s our detailed breakdown of the professional AC installation process from first contact to final testing.
Phase 1: Initial Consultation & Assessment
1. Schedule Your Free In-Home Estimate
What Happens:
- Call (510) 391-5597 or submit online request
- We schedule a convenient time for your home visit
- No obligation consultation
- Typically scheduled within 2-3 business days
What to Prepare:
- Clear access to current HVAC system
- List of comfort concerns or problem areas
- Recent utility bills (optional but helpful)
- Questions about features or financing
2. Comprehensive Home Assessment
Duration: 60-90 minutes
Our certified technician performs:
Interior Inspection:
- Room-by-room measurement
- Window sizes and orientation
- Insulation quality assessment
- Existing ductwork inspection
- Current thermostat evaluation
- Electrical panel review
Exterior Evaluation:
- Home orientation and sun exposure
- Outdoor unit location options
- Electrical service capacity
- Refrigerant line routing
- Condensate drain placement
- Property access considerations
3. Manual J Load Calculation
The Foundation of Proper Sizing
We calculate your exact cooling needs based on:
- Square footage
- Ceiling heights
- Insulation R-values
- Window types and sizes
- Number of occupants
- Heat-generating appliances
- Local climate zone
- Home orientation
Why This Matters: Proper sizing is critical for:
- Comfort and even cooling
- Energy efficiency
- System longevity
- Humidity control
- Lower operating costs
4. System Recommendations & Options
What We Present:
Equipment Options:
- Multiple efficiency levels (14-24 SEER)
- Appropriate capacity (tonnage)
- Feature comparisons
- Warranty details
- Brand options (primarily Carrier)
System Tiers:
- Performance Series: Budget-friendly, reliable
- Comfort Series: Enhanced features, better efficiency
- Infinity Series: Premium comfort, maximum efficiency
Pricing Breakdown:
- Equipment costs
- Installation labor
- Additional materials
- Electrical work (if needed)
- Permit fees
- Warranty coverage
- Total investment
5. Rebate & Financing Information
Available Incentives:
- Federal tax credits (up to $600)
- PG&E rebates
- Peninsula Clean Energy programs
- Silicon Valley Clean Energy offers
- Manufacturer rebates
Financing Options:
- 0% interest for 12 months
- Extended payment plans
- Pre-qualification available
- Same-day approval possible
6. Detailed Written Proposal
You Receive:
- Complete equipment specifications
- Model numbers and efficiency ratings
- Itemized cost breakdown
- Warranty information
- Installation timeline
- Payment terms
- Valid for 30 days
No Pressure:
- Take time to review
- Compare with other quotes
- Ask follow-up questions
- We never pressure same-day decisions
Phase 2: Pre-Installation Preparation
1. Contract & Scheduling
What Happens:
- Sign installation agreement
- Select installation date (typically 3-7 days out)
- Receive confirmation details
- Pre-installation checklist provided
2. Permitting Process
We Handle:
- Submit permit applications
- Pay permit fees
- Coordinate inspections
- Ensure code compliance
Timeline: Most Bay Area cities issue permits within 1-3 business days.
3. Equipment Ordering
Our Process:
- Order exact equipment from quote
- Verify delivery date
- Inspect upon arrival
- Store climate-controlled until install
Lead Times:
- Standard units: Usually in stock
- High-efficiency models: 3-5 days
- Custom configurations: 1-2 weeks
4. Installation Team Assignment
Your Crew:
- Lead installer (10+ years experience)
- Installation assistant
- Licensed electrician (if needed)
- Project coordinator
You’ll Receive:
- Crew names and photos
- Estimated arrival time
- Phone contact for day-of questions
5. Pre-Installation Communication
2 Days Before:
- Confirmation call
- Final schedule verification
- Special instructions review
Day Before:
- Reminder text/email
- Arrival window confirmation
- Last-minute questions answered
Phase 3: Installation Day
Morning of Installation
6:00 AM - Crew Departure
- Final equipment check
- Tool and material inventory
- Route planning
8:00 AM - Arrival at Your Home
- Introduction to crew
- Site walk-through
- Protection setup (floor runners, drop cloths)
- Tool staging area setup
Step 1: Old System Removal (1-2 hours)
Indoor Unit:
- Disconnect electrical power
- Remove refrigerant (EPA certified)
- Disconnect refrigerant lines
- Remove condensate drain
- Disconnect ductwork
- Remove old furnace/air handler
- Clean area for new unit
Outdoor Unit:
- Disconnect electrical
- Recover remaining refrigerant
- Disconnect refrigerant lines
- Remove condenser unit
- Remove old pad/stand
- Clean installation area
Disposal:
- Responsible recycling of old equipment
- Proper refrigerant recovery (EPA compliant)
- Haul-away included in service
Step 2: Indoor Unit Installation (2-3 hours)
Positioning:
- Place new air handler/furnace
- Ensure proper clearances
- Level and secure unit
- Verify access for future service
Connections:
- Reconnect ductwork (seal all joints)
- Install new air filter
- Connect condensate drain line
- Route to proper drainage
- Install overflow safety switch
Electrical:
- Install new disconnect
- Connect power supply
- Verify voltage and amperage
- Test safety controls
Step 3: Outdoor Unit Installation (2-3 hours)
Pad Installation:
- Place new composite or concrete pad
- Level precisely
- Position for optimal airflow
- Ensure proper drainage
Unit Placement:
- Set condenser on pad
- Level in all directions
- Secure to pad
- Verify clearances (2 feet all sides)
Refrigerant Lines:
- Install new line set or reuse if suitable
- Proper sizing for system
- Insulated suction line
- Secure routing and support
- Protection from damage
Electrical Connection:
- Install disconnect box
- Connect power from panel
- Install whip connection
- Wire to unit per code
Step 4: System Connections (1-2 hours)
Refrigerant Lines:
- Flare or braze connections
- Nitrogen purge during brazing
- Leak test all connections
- Insulate suction line
Electrical Verification:
- Double-check all connections
- Verify proper voltage
- Test safety controls
- Confirm proper phasing
Condensate Drain:
- Connect primary drain
- Install secondary overflow
- Test drainage
- Verify proper slope
Step 5: Thermostat Installation (30-60 minutes)
Wiring:
- Run new thermostat wire if needed
- Connect to air handler
- Label all wires
- Verify communication
Mounting:
- Select optimal location
- 5 feet from floor
- Interior wall preferred
- Away from heat sources
- Level installation
Programming:
- Set up WiFi (if smart thermostat)
- Configure system type
- Set initial schedule
- Demonstrate features to homeowner
Step 6: System Startup & Testing (1-2 hours)
Initial Startup:
- Evacuate refrigerant lines (removes air and moisture)
- Charge system to exact specifications
- Verify pressures at multiple temperatures
- Check superheat and subcooling
Airflow Testing:
- Measure supply air temperature
- Verify proper airflow (CFM)
- Check return air temperature
- Calculate temperature split (typically 18-22°F)
Performance Verification:
- Amp draw on compressor
- Fan motor operation
- Capacitor readings
- Safety control function
Final Checks:
- All electrical connections tight
- No refrigerant leaks
- Proper drainage
- Quiet operation
- Correct thermostat function
Step 7: Final Inspection & Walkthrough (30 minutes)
With Homeowner:
- Show all new equipment
- Explain operation
- Demonstrate thermostat
- Review maintenance requirements
- Answer all questions
Documentation:
- Provide warranty information
- Give maintenance schedule
- Explain filter changes
- Leave owner’s manuals
- Provide our 24/7 contact info
Site Cleanup:
- Remove all debris
- Sweep/vacuum work areas
- Remove floor protection
- Haul away old equipment
- Leave site cleaner than found
Typical Installation Timeline:
- Simple replacement: 4-6 hours
- Standard installation: 6-8 hours
- Complex installation: 8-10 hours
- Major ductwork: May require 2 days
Phase 4: Post-Installation
Municipal Inspection
Within 2-3 Days:
- City inspector visits
- Verifies code compliance
- Checks permit requirements
- Signs off installation
Our Responsibility:
- Schedule inspection
- Be present for inspection
- Address any concerns
- Obtain final approval
Follow-Up Contact
24 Hours After Installation:
- Check-in call from our office
- Address any questions
- Verify system operating correctly
- Schedule follow-up if needed
30 Days After Installation:
- Satisfaction survey
- Performance check offer
- Reminder about first maintenance
- Review of warranty registration
Warranty Registration
We Complete:
- Submit registration to manufacturer
- Verify coverage start date
- Provide you with confirmation
- Explain warranty terms
Your Coverage:
- 10-year parts warranty (Carrier)
- 1-year labor warranty (us)
- Extended warranty options available
What Makes Our Installation Process Different
1. Precise Sizing Every Time
- Never rely on “rule of thumb”
- Complete Manual J calculation
- Account for all variables
- Right-sized system guaranteed
2. Quality Materials & Methods
- New refrigerant lines when needed
- Proper brazing with nitrogen purge
- Sealed duct connections
- Quality mounting pads
- Professional-grade materials
3. Experienced Installation Teams
- 10+ years average experience
- Carrier Factory Authorized training
- NATE certified technicians
- Background-checked employees
- Respectful of your home
4. Code Compliance & Safety
- All permits obtained
- Work to current codes
- Municipal inspections passed
- Safety first approach
- No shortcuts ever
5. Transparent Communication
- Clear timeline provided
- Day-of updates
- Questions welcomed
- No surprise charges
- What we quote is what you pay
Common Installation Challenges & How We Handle Them
Challenge: Tight Attic Access
Solution:
- Smaller equipment sections
- Professional rigging
- Extended labor time built-in
- No extra charges for difficulty
Challenge: Old/Damaged Ductwork
Discovered During Installation:
- Stop and consult homeowner
- Provide repair options
- Detailed pricing before proceeding
- Only proceed with approval
Challenge: Electrical Panel Upgrade Needed
Our Process:
- Licensed electrician available
- Same-day panel upgrade possible
- Detailed cost provided
- Municipal inspection coordinated
Challenge: Weather Delays
How We Handle:
- Reschedule if severe weather
- Cover exposed openings
- Complete indoor work if possible
- Communication every step
Your Preparation Checklist
Before Installation Day
Clear Access:
- ☐ Path to indoor unit location
- ☐ Outdoor unit installation area
- ☐ Attic access if needed
- ☐ Electrical panel access
Protect Valuables:
- ☐ Move breakables from work areas
- ☐ Remove wall hangings near work zones
- ☐ Protect flooring in traffic areas
Pet Planning:
- ☐ Secure pets during installation
- ☐ Plan for 6-8 hours of activity
- ☐ Inform crew of any pet concerns
Day-of Details:
- ☐ Someone 18+ home all day
- ☐ Bathroom access for crew
- ☐ Parking available for work vehicles
- ☐ Payment method ready (if final payment due)
What to Expect After Installation
First 24 Hours
- System may run frequently (normal)
- Learning your home’s characteristics
- Indoor humidity may fluctuate
- Slight new equipment smell (normal)
First Week
- System run times stabilize
- Temperature consistency improves
- Energy usage patterns emerge
- Any questions? Call us immediately
First Month
- Change air filter if disposable
- Check for any unusual sounds
- Verify proper drainage
- Schedule first maintenance visit
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does installation take? Most installations complete in one day (6-8 hours). Complex installations with extensive ductwork may require two days.
Q: Do I need to be home the entire time? Yes, someone 18+ should be present for the duration of installation.
Q: Will you protect my floors and furniture? Absolutely. We use floor runners and drop cloths throughout the installation area.
Q: What if you discover additional problems? We stop, explain the issue, provide pricing, and only proceed with your approval. No surprise charges.
Q: Can I use the AC immediately after installation? Yes! We fully test and ensure proper operation before we leave.
Q: What about my old thermostat? We’ll install a new programmable or smart thermostat. Your old one is removed and recycled.
Q: When should I schedule my first maintenance? We recommend scheduling your first maintenance 6-12 months after installation.
Q: What if something goes wrong after you leave? Call us immediately at (510) 391-5597. We offer 24/7 emergency support and will return to address any installation-related issues at no charge.
Ready to Start Your AC Installation?
Contact Bay Area Climate Control:
- Phone: (510) 391-5597
- Online: Request Free Estimate
What Happens Next:
- Schedule your free in-home assessment
- Receive detailed proposal with options
- Choose your installation date
- Relax while we handle everything
Serving the Entire Bay Area: Alameda • Contra Costa • San Francisco • San Mateo • Santa Clara Counties
Your comfort is our commitment.