Many things about heat pumps and air conditioners are exactly the same. They have almost entirely the same components, with the notable exception of the reversing valve, which allows the heat pump to heat as well as cool. They require the same type of technician to do the same sorts of maintenance and repairs. But what about installation? Are there differences between having a heat pump and an air conditioner installed? For air conditioner or heat pump installation in Covington, LA, we’ve got you covered!
Two Units
Both a heat pump and an air conditioner have two units. One goes outside your home, almost always on a small concrete slab. This outdoor unit houses the compressor, which pressurizes refrigerant so that it will keep moving through a system of coils or metal tubes that connect the outdoor unit to the one inside.
The indoor unit is where all the cooled (or heated) air is generated. In addition to the coils that create this temperature change, it also contains the fan that sends the hot or cold air through your home’s ducts and a motor to power that fan.
This means that both air conditioner and heat pump installation have two areas where your installation techs will need to work. And although there are some minor, though important, differences in components, like the reversing valve we mentioned, the installation will involve the same basic steps no matter which system you choose.
Installation Steps
First, your installers will arrive, greet you, and get the lay of the land. They’ll assess exactly where the indoor and outdoor units are located and how to most easily access them while moving large equipment around. If things need to be cleared out of the way to make installation easier, they’ll do that with your blessing.
Next, your installers will turn off and disconnect your existing system at both units. They’ll move both units out of position and cart them away. Now it’s time for your new system! They’ll put the units in place and connect them. This involves setting up power lines for electrical access, refrigerant coils for the coolant, and drainage lines to remove condensation from your home.
Once the new system is connected and turned on, your technicians will allow it to run for a bit, checking for any issues or concerns, so you’ll know for sure that it will work just the way it should. Then, they’ll answer your questions, tidy their work areas, and say goodbye! It should all be done in eight hours or less.
Installation Differences
Whether your new system is a heat pump or an air conditioner won’t affect your installation process or timeline. However, some differences can make it necessary to change the plan. For example, setting up a ductless system for the first time involves putting in multiple indoor units. If your ducts are in shabby shape and need to be sealed, that might be a separate appointment in addition to your installation.
When you need it done right, contact Professional Heating & Air.