AC Installation in Houston, TX

When they've been looking around for a new unit for AC installation, Houston homeowners are often unsure of what exactly SEER means and why it's important. It stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, which is essentially an efficiency rating that measures cooling system performance. Higher SEER ratings indicate better energy efficiency and less fuel consumption. Modern, high-efficiency units save money for homeowners because they reduce the energy costs on your utility bills, and they reduce your carbon footprint because they don't put as much of a strain on limited energy resources.

One of the reasons it's so important to understand SEER when purchasing a new unit is that the U.S. Department of Energy has minimum efficiency requirements for AC installation. Houston HVAC professionals are not permitted to install units that don't meet those minimums, so it's necessary to choose one that is in compliance with the regulations. As of 2023, air conditioners installed in the Southeastern region of the United States (including Texas) must have a SEER rating of 15 or higher. Most units available for sale these days will meet or exceed that rating, but it's still good to be aware of it. These energy conservation measures have a huge impact on energy usage throughout the Southeastern region of the United States, reducing both your individual energy bills and the environmental toll of high energy usage.

That's a question that warrants careful consideration when it's time for AC installation. Houston homeowners may have an idea in their heads of where they want their new unit to go, but there may be more to the installation than they expect, depending on the type of system. It's also important to note that there are certain requirements for where indoor and outdoor units need to be placed for maximum efficiency, function, and safety.

When searching for the perfect place for an outdoor AC installation, Houston homeowners should look for somewhere that meets these conditions:

• Must be at least 12 inches away from any other object or structure
• Ideally, it should be away from high-traffic areas and sheltered from direct sunlight
• Must be installed on an elevated, level condenser pad
• Nearby bushes and tree branches should be trimmed so they're a safe distance away

Indoor central air units will likely be located in a utility area near other appliances like your furnace and water heater, but if you are having a ductless mini-split system installed, you'll need appropriate locations on the wall in each room that is getting an evaporator unit. Here are some of the conditions to keep in mind for wall-mounted units:

• Must be at least seven feet above your floor
• Must have six inches of clearance on top and sides
• Positioned a minimum of three feet away from Wi-Fi modems, electronics, and coaxial cables
• Wall must be sturdy enough to support unit, which will ideally be fastened on a wall stud
• Must be sheltered from sustained, direct sunlight and other heat sources
• Can not be obstructed by large furniture or other items

AC installation isn’t a process that can be done by just anyone. It’s a multi-step procedure that needs to be performed to code, not to mention certain actions that need to be followed for the system to work correctly. Wondering exactly what goes on during an AC installation? Houston, we’ll walk you through the basic steps of an installation to help you better understand what’s involved indoors and outdoors of your home.

• Remove the old interior AC unit and disconnect all the ductwork, wiring, gas, and exhaust vents and the condensate drain
• Attach the new wiring and lines
• Check that the system is connected properly
• Hook up the refrigerant and service valves
• Remove the old exterior AC unit
• Level the equipment pad or place on a riser
• Install the new unit, including the service disconnect and load-side high-voltage wire
• Set the copper line and insulation

After installation, we perform numerous checks across the entire system. We won’t leave until we know it’s running correctly and will walk you through exactly how to operate the system before we go. After installation of your forced air unit, don’t forget to schedule regular air duct cleaning to avoid premature AC replacement.

Our installation process varies depending on the type of AC unit you choose. Before you schedule a professional installation service with the experts at Aire Serv of Central & West Houston, it's important to remember a few things, including:

• The installation process will likely require less reconfiguration if you’re replacing an existing AC unit of the same type.
• Central air conditioning systems require ductwork, which can be an expensive addition to your home. Ductless split AC systems are a great option for older homes that don’t have ductwork.
• Adding air conditioning will help reduce humidity levels in your home.
• It’s important to choose an AC unit that’s appropriate for the size of your home and projected energy demand.
• Having a qualified HVAC professional perform the installation is key to ensuring the process goes smoothly and correctly. Your local Aire Serv professionals are highly experienced in-home air conditioning installation services.

Yes. You cannot replace or install an air conditioning unit in Houston without the right permits. Do so, and you’ll be looking at a hefty fine. To do HVAC work in Houston, you must be a certified and registered technician working for a licensed contractor. That means not just anyone can do HVAC work in the city, and when you hire the professional team at Aire Serv, you know you’re getting an experienced, licensed technician. This makes a big difference in the quality of the work performed, but it also means that we will obtain all the necessary permits for the job. Locals can rely on us to perform a thorough inspection of their homes before applying for permits. On installation day, we’ll have everything required to start the job without risking penalties or fines.

When you’re ready to replace or install a new air conditioning system for your home, Aire Serv of Central & West Houston is here to provide cost-effective, reliable solutions. We’re happy to answer any questions you have about our installation process or the wide variety of AC units we offer. Additionally, we can provide a free quote for your professional air conditioning installation service.

With years of experience serving home and business owners throughout the River Oaks neighborhood in Houston and the surrounding areas, including Bellaire, Rice Village, Lazy Brook/Timber Grove, Houston Heights, and Memorial Village, we’re fully equipped to help you when you need reliable air conditioning installation services.

Contact us today to learn more about our installation process or to schedule an appointment! While on the phone, why not ask us about our other HVAC services, including air conditioner repair or thermostat repair?