Replacing your air conditioner can be a huge decision and investment for homeowners. We often forget to do regular maintenance to the system, which can lead to less cooling in your house or, even worse, damage to the unit.
However, changing that old window or central AC, even though it works well, might be integral to getting better efficiency and saving a few bucks in the long run.
The time it takes to replace an aircon can vary depending on a few factors, but generally, it takes a relatively short amount of time.
You should hire a contractor to replace it, saving installation time and preventing damage to the new unit, which might be expensive to repair.
This article will look at the time it takes to replace an AC unit and the factors that affect this duration.
Replacing your AC often lasts for about 4 to 8 hours. However, the size and type of your air conditioner affect the time it takes during installation.
In addition, the location, room dimensions, and technical experience can add a few more hours to the replacement schedule.
Replacing your AC should not be a burden! Here are some helpful tips about the process and what affects the time needed to make the replacements.
How Long Does It Take To Replace an Air Conditioning Unit?
Removing the old AC unit and upgrading to a portable or self-evaporating system takes less than a day. On the other hand, if you ask for a technician’s services, this time can be reduced to about 4 to 8 hours.
It might seem easy, but many moving parts exist when replacing your air conditioner.
Though you might want the replacement done as fast and as smoothly as possible, several factors can affect how long it takes for the climate control device to be replaced.
Let us look at some of these factors:
1. The Size of the AC Unit
The size of your air conditioner is one of the biggest factors affecting the installation time needed.
Typically, bigger units take a longer time to install. Smaller aircon systems, like window units, are easier to take out and even easier to install. They are also less heavy and bulkier, making them easy to carry around without additional help.
However, bigger units require more than one person to remove, demount the truck, or even carry them to your designated location, which can be a hectic and time-consuming task.
Small units like a window or portable systems are easier to manage and will only take about 2 to 4 hours during replacement.
2. Location
The other factor that can affect your AC replacement time is the location.
For home or business owners who want to replace or install a split air conditioner or HVAC system, obstructions around the installation area can greatly hinder how soon the job is done.
If there is a clear path to the location, technicians can easily remove the unit without worrying too much about the flower bed or your outside washer drain.
However, if the system must be installed in an area that is hard to reach or has obstacles that cannot be moved, the process will take much longer.
3. Type of Replacement
Some air conditioning units are more complex and harder to install.
Central or hybrid air conditioners require more attention, as some components must be installed in different rooms or outside the house.
In addition, many complications can happen when connecting one device in the house and the other is placed outside, including having to drill holes into the walls for pipework.
However, if you are replacing an air conditioner with a similar model, then the process is seamless.
When both ACs are identical, even central air conditioning units, then it means that the technician can use the openings in the room to fit pipes or cables to the new system without any struggles.
4. Room Dimensions
You should consider ductwork and vent installation when replacing your climate control unit. Though the old air conditioner might have fit perfectly in the room, getting a bigger machine might require more pipework, delaying replacement.
Likewise, it is also crucial to repair or clean the ducts before installing the replacement. Clogged ducts can lead to ineffective climate control and also mold growth.
If the room is too large, you will need more time to clear the ducts or work on the repairs, which adds to the replacement schedule.
5. Technical Expertise
Lastly, technical expertise can determine the amount of time you spend on the AC replacement project.
If you do not have the proper knowledge, skill, or tools for the job, you will likely spend a few hours, if not days, installing the new air conditioner.
On the other hand, getting a reliable service to help with the replacement will give you a higher chance of success.
Not only will they finish the replacement faster, but they will also take good care of the unit and prevent any damage or breaking during the process.
Summary
Sadly, there is no definitive answer for how long replacing your air conditioner might take.
However, if everything goes according to plan and there are no major hiccups during installation, the process can take about 4 to 8 hours.
A few factors can add more hours to your replacement schedule:
The size and type of the unit play a considerable role during installation.
The installation location and the room size can also hinder how fast the new unit is up and running.
Lastly, getting expert help, rather than doing the replacement yourself, can cut down on the installation time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take To Replace an Outdoor AC Unit?
A few factors determine how long the process will take, but if everything is on track, the technicians should take about 4 to 8 hours to run the new unit.
Is It Easy To Replace an AC Unit?
Though DIY projects are fun, replacing an AC unit is a bit more complicated. Too many things can go wrong, and you risk damaging the new unit and property or causing harm to your health and your family.
It is always better to call in a professional for help.
