AC Installation

A homeowner calls for AC installation when their current system can no longer keep up with cooling demands, runs constantly without satisfying the thermostat, or has a compressor failure that costs more to repair than replace. The situation is urgent: a broken AC in a San Marcos summer makes a house uncomfortable fast. This work means removing the old unit and putting in a new matched system designed for the home's specific cooling load.

We start by calculating the correct tonnage using a Manual J load calculation based on your home's square footage, window orientation, and insulation levels. The new outdoor condensing unit gets set on a level pad, connected to the indoor evaporator coil with refrigerant linesets. We braze the copper joints with nitrogen flow to prevent oxidation, pull a deep vacuum to remove moisture, and charge the system to factory specs. The thermostat is wired and tested for proper operation.

What makes one installation cost more than another is the equipment's SEER rating and size, the condition of existing ductwork, and the accessibility of the attic or crawlspace where the indoor unit goes. Older homes may need electrical upgrades to handle the new system's amperage, and tight spaces can require extra labor. Weather also plays a role: extreme heat or rain slows outdoor work, and permits from the county add time to the schedule.

On installation day, we lay down floor protectors and drop cloths from the door to the work area. We disconnect and remove the old equipment, set the new unit, and test everything. Afterward, we clean up all debris, vacuum the work area, and haul away the old unit. Before we arrive, clear the area around the indoor unit and outdoor condenser. After the job, change your air filter monthly and schedule a maintenance check before next summer.