Common AC Installation Tips
Choose the correct system size
Bigger isn’t always better with AC installation. A unit that’s too big for the space runs in short bursts and never gets the chance to pull humidity out of the air. A proper Manual J load calculation from an expert tech accounts for square footage, insulation, window placement, and local climate before any system gets recommended.
Look at SEER2 ratings
SEER2 is the current federal efficiency standard for central air conditioning equipment. In Raleigh, the cooling season stretches well into fall, so efficiency matters more here than in places with shorter summers. A 16 SEER2 unit or better tends to pay back the price gap within a few years.
Check your existing ductwork
Duct problems don’t fix themselves when you swap the equipment. We recommend checking your ductwork before the new unit goes in. If leaks show up, Comfort Monster offers Aeroseal duct sealing to handle them first.
Think about indoor air quality
The installation day is the easiest time to add filtration or purification equipment. Doing it after the fact means extra labor and potentially retrofitting around the new system. See the indoor air quality options we carry.
Consider smart thermostats
Most new systems pair well with a smart thermostat, and setup is simpler at install than after the fact. If you’ve got rooms that run noticeably hotter or cooler than others, ask us about HVAC zoning as well.