How Long Does an AC Installation Take? What Homeowners Should Expect
When it comes to installing a new air conditioning system, one of the most common questions homeowners in Dallas, Fort Worth, and Haltom City, TX ask is, “How long will it take?” The short answer is that most AC installations take about 4 to 8 hours. But like many home projects, the full story depends on a few factors that can speed up or slow down the process.
If you’re replacing an old unit or getting a brand-new installation in a home that never had central air, the time it takes can vary. This guide will walk you through what affects the timeline, what you can expect on installation day, and how to get your home ready so the process goes as smoothly as possible.
What Affects the Duration of an AC Installation?
Every home is different, and so is every AC installation. Here are the key things that can affect how long the job takes:
1. The Type of System Being Installed
Are you installing a traditional central air system, a ductless mini-split, or a heat pump? Central air conditioning systems typically take longer, especially if ductwork is involved. A ductless mini-split can often be installed more quickly, sometimes in just one day.
2. Is This a Replacement or a First-Time Installation?
Replacing an existing AC system is usually faster than putting in a completely new one. If the ductwork, electrical lines, and drainage system are already in place, the installers can focus on removing the old unit and connecting the new one.
A brand-new installation may require:
- New ductwork
- Electrical upgrades
- A new concrete pad for the outdoor unit
- A new thermostat
These steps can stretch the installation over two or more days, depending on the complexity of the job.
3. Ductwork Condition and Design
Even if you already have ductwork, it might need repairs or replacement. According to Energy Star, leaking ducts can reduce HVAC efficiency by up to 20% (source). If your ducts are old or undersized, your HVAC team might recommend upgrading them to match your new AC unit.
Inspecting and modifying ductwork can easily add several hours to the project.
4. Accessibility of the Installation Area
Is your attic hard to access? Is the outdoor unit located in a tight spot or behind landscaping? These kinds of challenges slow things down. Installers need safe, clear access to both indoor and outdoor components to work efficiently.
5. Permits and Inspections
In most Texas cities, including Dallas and Fort Worth, AC installations require permits and sometimes inspections. A professional contractor like Tarrant Electric & Air will handle this for you, but waiting for a city inspector to sign off on the work could cause a delay, especially if your installation is scheduled right before a weekend or holiday.
6. Weather Conditions
Bad weather can delay outdoor work. While rain doesn’t usually affect indoor installations, storms can create unsafe conditions for placing the condenser unit or doing electrical work outside.
What Happens on AC Installation Day?
Knowing what to expect on the day of your AC installation can help reduce surprises and stress.
Step 1: Arrival and Prep (30–60 minutes)
The crew will arrive, confirm the job details, and prep your home. This includes laying down drop cloths and protecting floors. They’ll also shut off the power to the system before getting started.
Step 2: Removing the Old System (1–2 hours)
If you’re replacing an old unit, the first step is removal. This involves disconnecting the electrical wiring, refrigerant lines, and drainage systems. The team will carefully remove and dispose of the old equipment.
Step 3: Installing the New System (2–5 hours)
This is the bulk of the work:
- Placing the new indoor air handler or furnace
- Setting the outdoor condenser unit
- Running refrigerant lines
- Connecting electrical and drainage systems
- Installing a new thermostat (if needed)
Step 4: Testing and Cleanup (1 hour)
Once everything is in place, the system will be tested to make sure it’s running properly. The crew will check for refrigerant leaks, verify airflow, and make sure the system is cooling evenly. After testing, they’ll clean up the workspace and go over your new system with you.
How to Prepare Your Home Before Installation Day
You can help your installation team save time and work more efficiently with a little prep:
- Clear the work areas inside and outside your home
- Secure pets in another room or area
- Ensure access to the attic or crawl space if needed
- Have someone home to answer questions and approve decisions if needed
Taking these steps ahead of time can prevent delays and help your installers stay on track.
Tips to Make the Process Smoother
Here are a few homeowner-approved tips to keep things on track:
- Hire a licensed and experienced contractor. A reputable company like Tarrant Electric & Air knows the local permit process, building codes, and the Texas climate.
- Ask for a timeline estimate upfront. You deserve to know how long the work will take.
- Choose energy-efficient systems. Look for units with high SEER ratings (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). New federal guidelines require a SEER2 of at least 14.3 for AC units in Texas as of 2023.
- Plan for a maintenance schedule. Keep your new system running smoothly with routine service.
How Tarrant Electric & Air Makes Installation Easy
We’ve been helping homeowners in Dallas, Fort Worth, and Haltom City install air conditioning systems for years. Our team shows up on time, treats your home with respect, and gets the job done right the first time.
Whether you’re upgrading your current AC or putting one in for the first time, we’ll walk you through your options, give you an honest quote, and complete the installation with care.
We believe in honest advice, upfront pricing, and quality work. No gimmicks. No cutting corners. Just reliable cooling you can count on in the Texas heat.
Need a new AC installed in Dallas, Fort Worth, or Haltom City? Call Tarrant Electric & Air today at 817-428-4404 to schedule your consultation.