Can I Install My Own Air Conditioning

Phill Crawley

Smarter Air & Electrical

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can you install ducted air conditioning yourself

Installing air conditioning in your home can provide much-needed comfort during hot summer months. While it is recommended to hire a professional installer for complex installations such as split system or ducted air conditioners, there are certain situations where you may be able to install your own air conditioning unit. This article will explore the things to consider and steps to take if you are considering a DIY air conditioner installation. When assessing whether this is something you should undertake yourself, its important to consider the following:

 

    • Do you possess the necessary experience and licenses for electrical work? Carrying out electrical work without proper training can be hazardous & it’s also illegal. Ensure you have the required licenses or hire a professional qualified electrician.
    • Will you be working with refrigerant (split & ducted systems), and do you hold a refrigerant handling license? Working with refrigerants requires specialized knowledge, licenses and licensing. If you lack these, it’s best to hire a professional.
    • Are you comfortable working with tools and equipment? Installation requires specific tools and the skill to use them. Assess your comfort level with hand tools & battery powered power tools before proceeding.
    • Have you ever installed any type of air conditioning system before? Previous experience can be invaluable. If this is your first time, consider seeking professional guidance.

Sizing your system

Prior any air conditioner installation, you first need to consider the cooling and heating requirement for the space to correctly size your system. To calculate this, factors such as room size, insulation quality, and local climate conditions must be taken into account. The room size dictates the volume of air that needs to be cooled, while insulation levels influence how effectively the cooled air is retained. A conservative rule of thumb used by professional installers, which comfortably covers a range of scenarios whilst balancing energy efficiency, is to calculate the cooling requirement at 160watts per m2. For example, if you are seeking to cool a 12m2 space, this would require approximately 2kW of air conditioning (12m2 x 160watts).

Types of DIY Air Conditioner

Ducted Air Conditioning Units

Ducted air conditioning is a comprehensive cooling and heating solution that utilizes a network of ducts to distribute conditioned air throughout a home.

It has separate indoor and outdoor units requiring connection by a qualified refrigeration mechanic and electrician. Installing ducted air conditioning in a home requires careful thought and planning to balance the cooling requirements of the entire space as energy-efficiently as possible, whilst meeting homeowner expectations, budget, and aesthetics. Because of the licenses required ducted air conditioning is a task best suited for a reputable company specialising in air conditioning that holds the relevant licences & insurances.

At Smarter Air & Electrical, we often get asked, “Can you install ducted air conditioning yourself?” While we don’t recommend doing the whole installation on your own, we’re all about finding ways to help save you money. That’s why we invite our clients to help with specific tasks, like cutting ceiling diffusers into the plasterboard or running some of the ductwork. This way, you can be involved in the process and reduce the cost of your installation, while we take care of the technical aspects to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Phill Crawley

Before you get stuck in, you would need the help of a friend, a detailed duct layout design, and to be comfortable with crawling around in the roof space. We recommend communicating openly with your contractor about your plans and ensuring that you understand the requirements and risks involved.

Split System Air Conditioner

A split system air conditioner is the most energy efficient and cost effective option to air condition a single room due to the lower installation costs. Similar to ducted air conditioning systems, they have separate indoor and outdoor units with connections for electrical wiring and refrigerant piping to carry the gas between them. While a split system air conditioner to suit one room might seem simple to install, it still requires both electrical work and refrigeration work, unfortunately, it is not a DIY job.

DIY split system air conditioner

Window Air Conditioner

Installing a window mounted air conditioning unit is an achievable DIY job that homeowners can undertake without contacting an air conditioning specialist. First, remember to calculate the heat load to find the appropriate sized unit and ensure there adequately sized power point available, smaller units will plug into a standard Australian 10amp power point (GPO) but larger units may require you to engage an electrician to fit a dedicated 15amp GPO. A new system will come with installation instructions which typically includes step-by-step directions for securing the unit in the window frame or wall. The installation process usually involves making a space for the system, either cutting an opening into a wall or removing a section of existing window, to attach the mounting brackets. Following this, you insert the unit into the bracket opening, and then securing it in place as outlined in the instructions. Remember to properly insulate any gaps around the unit to prevent drafts and ensure efficient cooling.

Portable Air Conditioning Unit

Installing a portable air conditioner is one of the most cost effective options which most homeowners will be able to install themselves with no trouble. Follow the below steps to get your new unit setup and working in the most energy efficient way:

 

    • Start by selecting a suitable location near a window and an electrical outlet.
    • Open the window and extend the window kit, attaching it securely to the window frame. This kit usually consists of an adjustable panel and an exhaust hose. Connect the exhaust hose to the back of the portable AC unit and then insert the other end into the window kit.
    • Make sure all connections are secure and airtight to prevent hot air from coming back into the room.
    • Attach the drain hose as per the manufacturers recommendations and run the hose to a suitable drainage point. Some units do not come with a drain hose but rather have a drain tray that needs to be emptied periodically.
    • Plug in the unit and turn it on, setting your desired temperature and fan speed.
    • Keep the area around the unit clear for optimal airflow.
    • Regularly clean the air filter, check the exhaust outlet for any blockages and empty the condensate water pan.

TECO Portable Inverter Air Conditioner

Is DIY Air Conditioning Installation Right for You?

While large complex air conditioning installations like ducted and split system air conditioners require the expertise of licensed professionals, there are great DIY options available to cool your home that you can successfully install yourself. Window-mounted air conditioning units and portable air conditioners fall into this category. Window units can be easily installed by carefully following the manufacturer’s instructions and ensuring proper insulation. Portable units, on the other hand, provide a convenient and cost-effective solution that homeowners can confidently install with a few simple steps outlined above.

When contemplating a DIY installation, it’s crucial to assess your comfort level with tools and equipment, your electrical expertise (All electrical work should be left to a professional), and any local regulations that may apply. If you’re not certain about the installation process or lack the required skills, it’s always wise to opt for assistance from licensed professionals. Ultimately, whether you’re trying to cool a single room or an entire house, finding the right balance between personal capabilities and the complexity of the installation process will help you find the best solution. If you’re looking for an obligation free quote, or just some friendly advice, please contact our friendly team today!

Scott Booth
We had a great experience from quote to install. I spent a year shopping around for air conditioning solutions and this mob had the best ...
Scott Booth
We had a great experience from quote to install. I spent a year shopping around for air conditioning solutions and this mob had the best price and the best service by far. An easy decision.
Scott Booth
Scott Booth
Jade Marsh (Jadey k450)
Had ducted aircon installed very promptly. Chose this company due to their customer satisfaction and importance for continuing to offer support. Have had to have ...
Jade Marsh (Jadey k450)
Had ducted aircon installed very promptly. Chose this company due to their customer satisfaction and importance for continuing to offer support. Have had to have technicians out twice to replace sensors and the second technician was absolutely phenomenal and gave use amazing advice.
Jade Marsh (Jadey k450)
Jade Marsh (Jadey k450)
Goran Radosavljevic
Very professional and friendly people at the same time, so easy to deal with. They always come on promissed time and deliver all 100%. They run ...
Goran Radosavljevic
Very professional and friendly people at the same time, so easy to deal with. They always come on promissed time and deliver all 100%. They run like ants, everyone knows what he's supposed to do and before you know it's ready to be turned on, when they start showing you how to control your new AC. Well done Smarter A&E, very happy with what you've accomplished. I strongly recommend this business to everyone.
Goran Radosavljevic
Goran Radosavljevic
Zuzana Husak
Smarter Air & Electrical made the choosing and installation of aircon a breeze. From the first contact, through inspection and installation I was impressed with ...
Zuzana Husak
Smarter Air & Electrical made the choosing and installation of aircon a breeze. From the first contact, through inspection and installation I was impressed with the professional service, punctuality, tidiness and politeness. I would highly recommend the team, in fact I already have. Thank you Alex, Davis, Tom and the boys.
Zuzana Husak
Zuzana Husak
Dave B
The guys were great. Professional, polite and efficient. Arrived on time, completed all work to a very high standard and left the house cleaner than ...
Dave B
The guys were great. Professional, polite and efficient. Arrived on time, completed all work to a very high standard and left the house cleaner than when they started. Would not hesitate to recommend Smarter Air to anyone.
Dave B
Dave B
Aslam Chapri
Excellent!!! The customer service was outstanding. Alex went above and beyond to help me finding the product I wanted. They efficiently and in time replaced ...
Aslam Chapri
Excellent!!! The customer service was outstanding. Alex went above and beyond to help me finding the product I wanted. They efficiently and in time replaced my old ducted aircon system. The installation team, Tom, Jacob, Levi and rest of the team were highly professional and polite and tidied up nicely after completing installation. Davis' initial site inspection was very informative. I highly recommend Smarter Air & Electrical.
Aslam Chapri
Aslam Chapri
Frankie Smith
Contact from start to finish was good, company was very responsive. Guys who installed were polite and professional. Price was much better than other quotes ...
Frankie Smith
Contact from start to finish was good, company was very responsive. Guys who installed were polite and professional. Price was much better than other quotes we got too. Happy all around, would highly recommend
Frankie Smith
Frankie Smith
Aaron Bey
Had our ducted aircon installed today the team was on time very professional and very efficient and tidy. It has been an amazing experience...
Aaron Bey
Had our ducted aircon installed today the team was on time very professional and very efficient and tidy. It has been an amazing experience from initial contact to quoting through to site visit and install. Didn’t try to sell us anymore than we need and really knew what they were talking about. Would highly recommend to anyone look to have air con installed. Thanks to the whole team.
Aaron Bey
Aaron Bey
Adam Staier
These guys are great. From initial quote right up to demonstration after it was installed they’ve been brilliant. Ours was a tricky install...
Adam Staier
These guys are great. From initial quote right up to demonstration after it was installed they’ve been brilliant. Ours was a tricky install due to access issues and they absolutely nailed it. Friendly professional staff and they work hard.
Adam Staier
Adam Staier
Anna Marcantelli
Have had the team from Smarter Air and Electrical do an aircon system for our shop and it’s absolutely changed our life. We were...
Anna Marcantelli
Have had the team from Smarter Air and Electrical do an aircon system for our shop and it’s absolutely changed our life. We were dying from the heat before but the guys had it installed in no time and couldn’t have been any easier to deal with! From calling up and booking in to having the system installed was seamless and the super friendly team made the decision that much better! Will continue to use these guys and always recommend to anyone in the future needing any air conditioning and electrical work done!
Anna Marcantelli
Anna Marcantelli

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