Installing Central Air Conditioning

These days, more and more offices and households prefer using central air conditioning because of its convenience. This type of air conditioning system distributes air or also cold water to many rooms in a building, which is better than stand-alone air conditioner units.

However, installing a central air conditioning system is more complex than installing single unit air conditioners (example, window or wall mounted air conditioners). If you have no experience with electrical installations, you will surely need to seek professional guidance, advice and planning for the work.

By the way, there are two basic types of central air conditioning: the package system which are very rare today and the split system. The package system is very a large window unit with a ductwork running directly from a single package that houses all the condenser, compressor, evaporator, and fans. Meanwhile, the split system has two packages: condenser/compressor located outside the home and evaporator/fan located inside.

The following are the main steps of installing a central air conditioning system, which may help you through the work. However, we persistently remind you that you should not do this yourself if possible. These methods are just to give you the technical know-how so that you are aware of how it is installed.

Step 1: Know the components. The three main parts are an outside unit (condenser, compressor), an inside unit or air handler (evaporator), and ducts or pipes. Both outside and inside units are to be connected to the main power supply of the home. If the evaporator is located outside, there is no need for an inside unit. Ducts work by distributing cold air through several rooms, while pipes distribute cold water, which is turned into air in each separate room.

Step 2: Plan with experts. Consult an electrician to make sure that the main power supply supports the system to be installed. It is quite dangerous connecting a system not supported by the main power. Contact also a professional who will help determine how big a unit is needed to cool the rooms. When replacing an old air conditioning system, ask a contractor (certified or accredited in Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) to remove the old system.

Step 3: Install with experts. After consulting local planning and building codes for requirements on installation and component placement, you are now ready to install the central air conditioning system. Just carefully follow all instructions and safety guidelines. Turn off the main power of the building. Install first the air handler unit (usually in basement or attic). Second, the compressor should be placed on top of an empty, stable and level surface. Drill holes through walls for refrigeration and electricity tubes. Then, connect compressor and air handler to the main power unit of the house. And lastly, check to make sure that the unit is working.

Installing a central air conditioning system requires a few hours so it is better to seek help from the experienced professionals. With this state-of-the-art system, you are assured of a quiet and cool environment.