Planning to install a new air conditioning system? Proper home preparation ensures that the process is efficient, safe, and sets your system up for long-term success. From clearing the area to checking your electrics, here’s a practical guide to get your home AC-ready with minimal disruption.
What to Do Before Installing Air Conditioning at Home
Clear the Installation Space
Start by making the indoor and outdoor areas easy to access and free from obstructions:
- Move furniture and decorations: Clear at least a 3-metre radius around the installation area indoors. Outside, remove garden furniture, pots, or any loose equipment near the intended unit location.
- Remove obstacles: Trim back any low-hanging branches or clear stored items in attics and lofts where applicable.
- Ensure a clear pathway: Make sure there’s a clean route through your home for technicians to carry equipment safely.
- Protect your flooring: Lay dust sheets or ask installers to wear shoe covers, especially in carpeted areas.
Ensure Easy Access for Installers
Providing sufficient space and access helps the installation go smoothly:
- Indoor units: Leave at least 1 metre of clearance around the installation point.
- Outdoor units: The site should be free from fencing, shrubs, or hard landscaping. Clear access is key for future servicing too.
- Attic installations: Make sure the hatch is accessible and large enough for equipment. Create a safe walkway if needed.
- High wall units: Leave enough space for secure ladder placement or scaffolding, depending on height.
Check Electrical System Compatibility
Before installation, it’s essential to confirm that your home’s electrical setup can support the new air conditioning system:
- Circuit breaker check: Your consumer unit may need a dedicated 20–30 amp breaker for the AC.
- Correct outlets: Many systems require a 240V connection. If unsure, have a qualified electrician inspect and upgrade if necessary.
- Wiring condition: Especially in older homes, the wiring must meet modern electrical standards.
- Voltage stability: Check for fluctuations using a multimeter or ask a technician to evaluate supply consistency.
Understand Your Unit’s Requirements
Each air conditioning unit has unique space and installation demands:
- Ventilation and airflow: Ensure there's enough clearance above and around both the indoor (minimum 15 cm) and outdoor units (about 60 cm on each side).
- Physical space: Measure the wall or surface to accommodate the unit and any pipework or wiring.
- Weight support: Check that walls or mounting points are strong enough for heavier systems, reinforcement may be required.
- Noise considerations: Follow local regulations when placing the outdoor unit to avoid any noise complaints from neighbours.
Prepare Ductwork if Needed
If your new AC system connects to ductwork, this should be checked and cleaned beforehand:
- Inspection: Look for leaks, blockages, poor insulation, or signs of pests or dust build-up.
- Proper sizing: Ducts should match the airflow requirements of your new system to avoid pressure issues.
- Seal and insulate: Use mastic or foil-backed tape to seal joints, and insulate ducts in unheated spaces to prevent energy loss.
- Professional cleaning: If the ductwork hasn’t been cleaned in years, consider having it serviced to remove allergens and debris.
By preparing your home ahead of time, you’ll help ensure your air conditioning system is installed without delays, and that it operates at peak performance from day one.
Getting air conditioning installed in Brackley, Northampton, or Milton Keynes?
Elements Heating Installations provides expert air conditioning installation with minimal disruption to your home. Call us today on 07875 344794 or 01280 473772, or fill out our contact form to book your consultation.
