A new HVAC installation is a structured process that typically takes one or two days. This depends on the type of system we’re installing compared to what you have and the condition of your ductwork. You likely want to know what to expect from the process. Here is a closer look at how an HVAC installation in Salem, OR usually goes from plan to completion.
The In-Home Assessment, Estimate, and System Selection
The initial assessment determines what kind and size of system you need. The information gathered at this appointment will help us draft an accurate estimate and include home square footage, window placement, insulation levels, and other factors. This is also the time to discuss whether you want an AC and furnace installation or a single heat pump. If you’re thinking about installing any indoor air quality systems or other add-ons, this is a great opportunity to explore those options further.
You can also decide what features you want based on your efficiency goals and convenience. Smart thermostats, variable speed fans, and multi-stage AC compressors and furnaces all help maximize efficiency. We also calculate the size of the system your home needs. You might also want to consider a zoned AC installation for more even temperature control and greater efficiency.
We will need to verify that the installation location is accessible and has all the needed electrical and, for furnace systems, gas lines. We will also assess the condition of your ductwork. This is important for determining how well your ducts will integrate with your preferred HVAC options and ensuring they are in good condition.
Poorly sealed, badly designed, or broken ducts will compromise the performance of your new system. If you don’t already have ductwork, you could consider a ductless system.
We will take all of this information and prepare a detailed estimate. We often present several options with varying costs and energy efficiency ratings. Once you make your final system selection, we can move on to scheduling.
We can also discuss any applicable rebates or tax incentives. Utilities and governments often encourage new eco-friendly installations with incentives. Especially with high-efficiency systems, this is an opportunity to recover some of your installation costs.
Scheduling and Preparation
The amount of time your actual installation will take depends on many factors. If you’re simply replacing a system with a similar type and size, we can usually complete the installation in a single day. If you’re making significant changes or there are issues with the existing ductwork, it may take longer.
If your home does not currently have ductwork and you want a central forced-air system, this can take between three and 10 days. Alternatively, you could choose a ductless mini-split, which can heat and cool rooms throughout your home without any ductwork. Installation takes between one and three days, depending on the number of indoor air handlers your home needs.
We will set a date that fits your schedule for your HVAC installation in Eugene or Salem, OR, or a nearby community. For the day of the installation, we ask that you clear a path to the existing HVAC unit. You may need to move vehicles or other items so that our technicians can park as close to the house as possible. Also, secure all pets and make sure children stay clear of the work area.
You should plan for the heating and cooling to be off for the duration of the HVAC installation. For this reason, we encourage customers to schedule installations and replacements for mild days in spring and fall.
If there are any issues that require contractors, we will build your schedule around their appointments. You might need to install a new concrete pad for the outdoor components of an AC or a heat pump installation. Likewise, you may need to schedule upgrades for the electrical panel or the HVAC circuit. These need to happen before we complete your HVAC installation.
Removing Old Equipment
Our technicians will safely disconnect HVAC equipment and dispose of it properly. In particular, only a licensed technician should handle the refrigerants in heat pumps and AC units. We will recover the refrigerant in accordance with regulations.
Installing the New HVAC System
We will determine the proper placement for the indoor air handler, outdoor condenser, and thermostat before installing your new HVAC system. For a central system with an air conditioner and furnace, you have the outdoor AC condenser and two outdoor units. The indoor AC air handler and the furnace are usually stacked together, so they may appear to be a single unit.
If you’re installing a ductless mini-split system, we place an indoor air handler in each designated zone. All air handlers connect to a single outdoor condenser. If you haven’t already had a ductless system, we drill a small hole to run the wiring and refrigerant lines.
Our technicians then connect all necessary ductwork and electric, gas, and refrigerant lines. We vacuum the refrigerant lines to remove any unnecessary air or moisture. We also need to install condensate drains to carry away the moisture that collects inside heating and cooling systems. Finally, we will wire any needed thermostats.
Testing
With your new HVAC system in place, our technicians will need to test it. We will verify basic operation first and check for any leaks in refrigerant lines. Once we’re confident that the thermostat is communicating with the HVAC system, we will run a full cycle.
We can test airflow from each vent to confirm you’re getting the needed output. Our technicians will make adjustments to vents and dampers as needed to balance the airflow. We may also need to tweak the blower motor controls.
Before we leave, we check the safety systems. We will verify that all of the shutdowns are functional. Our technicians will check for any error codes. If the system reports no trouble, then we clean up, and the installation is complete.
Walkthrough
Our technician will walk with you through the house to identify everything you need to know. We will point out filter locations and explain replacement schedules. You can also ask us questions about using your new thermostat. This may include setting up access to smart thermostat features, such as app and Wi-Fi access.
We will note the date of your system’s installation in a maintenance log that stays with the unit. Tracking maintenance is invaluable because it helps you schedule tune-ups and cleaning. Also, future homeowners like to know the unit’s maintenance history.
With proper maintenance, new HVAC systems usually last 10 to 15 years, although many go longer. Knowing the installation date helps you plan for an eventual replacement years down the road.
Our technician will explain the warranty terms. You may need to register your system within a manufacturer-specified period.
Choose Woodward Heating Air Plumbing for Your New HVAC System Installation
Woodward Heating Air Plumbing has been in business since 1989. We are the home of NATE-certified technicians, and our business is EPA- and NCI-certified. We offer honest, straightforward advice alongside upfront pricing with financing options available to qualified clients. We’re certified to work on Mitsubishi and Coleman products, and we also install models from other manufacturers
If you’re interested in an HVAC installation in Salem, Eugene, or a nearby community, contact Woodward Heating Air Plumbing right away.
