How to Install Central AC in Home
Imagine the heat outside your window and fresh, even cool air in every room of your home. Install a central air conditioner in your house to know exactly how it feels! This system allows you to cool all rooms at once, not just one room. So, let's find out what's important to consider before deciding to get one.
Understanding Central Air Systems
A central AC setup allows you to cool your entire home evenly. This AC doesn't work like a mobile unit at all. In this case, the air is distributed through ducts and reaches every room. There are two popular types of these systems, so it would be best to understand what their differences are before calling a home service specialist.
Split AC Systems
That’s actually the most common option to install AC in house. It consists of two units. The outer one contains the compressor and condenser. The inner one has the evaporator and fan. They are connected by freon pipes. Split AC is easy to install, and it is not difficult to care for. You'll also love the digits in your bills—just trust us.
Packaged AC Systems
In this system, all the elements are assembled in one housing. It is usually placed on the roof or next to the house. This type of central AC setup is ideal if you don't have a basement or separate room for the appliances. Plus: fewer indoor units mean more space in the house.
Key Components of a Central AC System
How to install central AC in home properly? Obviously, the key to a well-functioning system is installing the parts correctly. Which ones are important to know about at this stage? Here they are:
- The compressor is the heart of the system, pumping refrigerant.
- Condenser is the part that removes heat from the house.
- An evaporator is the part that takes heat from the air inside.
- Ducts and fans are important parts of the process that distribute the cooled air evenly.
- The thermostat is just the brains of your system.
Be sure to install central air conditioning system with all of these details in mind. And don't forget to take into account the season: read our article to find out which one is the perfect one. Every little thing is important!
Assessing Your Home's Cooling Needs
Before you install AC in house, it is vital to understand how much cooling your home really needs. The wrong wattage will result in unnecessary costs. Or even insufficient cooling!
Calculating Heat Gain
That’s what really affects the heat in a home:
- windows and their placement;
- the walls and roof (especially insulation);
- the number of people living inside;
- the appliances that produce heat.
Professionals use Manual J Load Calculation. This is the most accurate method of calculation that shows you how many BTUs you need to cool your home.
Choosing the Right Unit Size
An AC that is too powerful will turn on and off too often. This is bad because this activity shortens the life of the unit. On top of that, you will definitely be overpaying. And who wants that? A weak air conditioner in its turn simply will not cope with cooling.
The average guideline is as follows:
- 20-25 BTUs per square foot of living space.
For example, a 2,000 sq. ft. home will require approximately 40,000-50,000 BTUs.
Knowing the right size while installing air conditioning in house is all about balance between comfort and savings. For an accurate calculation, it's best to contact a Fuse Service professional to make sure you don't make a mistake.
Preparing Your Home for Central Air Installation
If you’re planning to put central AC in home, do it properly from the start. It's important because you definitely don't want to face problems later.
Evaluating Existing Ductwork
If you already have ductwork in your home, you should have it checked. Are there no air leaks? Are they properly insulated? Are they the right size for the new air conditioner? Take absolutely everything into account. Even small gaps can reduce efficiency by 30%!
What If Your Home Has No Ducts?
Older homes with no ducts require a choice:
- lay new ductwork (long and expensive);
- install a mini-split system for each room.
It is true that the first option is more expensive. But the second one is way quicker.
Checking Home Energy Efficiency
Before installing air conditioning in the house, insulate the walls. Also don’t forget to caulk gaps and consider new windows. This will definitely reduce the strain on the system and your energy bills.
Safety and Permits Before Installation
Be attentive to the permits question. A certified handyman will check the wiring, Freon connections, and paperwork. This will keep you and your home safe. And you don’t even have to know exactly what freon is!
The Central Air Installation Process
Now let's do some math. We will try to determine how much time we need to put into installing AC in house.
Installing Central Air in a House With Existing Ductwork
If ductwork is present, installation will take 1-3 days. In this case, it's simple. Specialists install the outdoor unit and connect the pipes. Then they install the indoor evaporator, connect the thermostat, and test the system.
Installing Central Air in a House Without Ductwork
Without ductwork, installing air conditioning in the house is more complicated. It’s just because either experts build new ductwork or opt for mini-split systems. The second option is faster, but the presence of the equipment is more noticeable in the interior.
If you still need more info, read this article to understand how much time the AC unit installation takes.
If you still need more info, read this article to understand how much time the AC unit installation takes.
Average Costs of Installing Central AC
Typical Price Range for Installation
Let us warn you right away: our experts know perfectly well how to install AC in home, but they don't know how much it will cost exactly for you until they perform a diagnostic. If you need any tips on how to save on AC installation, read our article about the best options.
Additional Expenses to Consider
Installing these important parts and considering these details can have a significant impact on the final cost:
- duct repair or duct work;
- electrical upgrades;
- permits and inspections.
Choosing the Best Central Air Unit for Your Home
Energy Efficiency Ratings (SEER & EER)
When you do decide to install central air conditioning, choose SEER 14-16 for standard efficiency. SEER 18+ is a great option for savings and quiet operation.
Modern Features That Improve Comfort
How to install AC in home and keep up with the times? Easy! Here's a list of what your system should have in 2025:
- smart thermostats;
- quiet compressors;
- humidity control.
These features make your home more comfortable and (obviously!) reduce costs. To see how we implement them, follow us on Instagram!
Maximizing the Efficiency of Your New Central AC System
Answering the question “how to install AC in home” is not that difficult. But it's even easier to understand what you need to do to make your system last longer:
- change filters every 1 to 3 months;
- check the air ducts;
- do maintenance once a year;
- keep the outdoor unit clean.
Keep this checklist and thank us later if you can cross off boxes regularly.
Final Thoughts on Installing Central Air in Your Home
How to install central AC in home? Well, now you know more about that than the average homeowners. It's not just about installing appliances; it's about creating a comfortable space for the whole family. Call our experts at Fuse Service at (669) 666‑9219 or write us at support@fuseservice.com to make cool fresh air your most frequent guest!