The most common air conditioner installation mistakes and how to avoid them

Even a quality air conditioner will work badly if it is badly installed. Many installation mistakes do not show up straight away, but only after months – as weaker cooling, dripping water or a fault. It is worth knowing them, so that you know what to ask.

1. Incorrect output

A unit that is too weak or too powerful. The output should be designed according to the room, not the price – What air conditioner output do I need? What it depends on.

2. Unsuitable position of the units

An indoor unit blowing directly on the bed, an outdoor unit in an enclosed space with no airflow or in a place a technician cannot reach. See Where to place an air conditioner: indoor and outdoor unit.

3. Poor condensate drainage

A hose with no gradient, kinked or routed so that water drips on the neighbours. The result is dripping from the indoor unit or damp walls – Air conditioner condensate: why it forms and why an air conditioner drips.

4. Inadequate leak testing and vacuuming

After connection, the refrigerant circuit must be checked and prepared according to the manufacturer’s procedure. Skipping these steps can lead to a refrigerant leak or damage to the unit – Topping up air conditioner refrigerant: when it is needed.

5. Poor pipe insulation

Inadequately insulated pipes can condense and reduce efficiency.

6. Unprofessional electrical connection

An air conditioner needs a connection and protection according to the manufacturer’s requirements.

7. Insecure fixing

An unsuitable bracket or anchoring into insulation without the correct anchors. The result is vibration, noise and, in the worst case, the danger of the unit coming loose.

8. No explanation of the controls

After installation, the technician should explain the controls, filter cleaning and recommended maintenance.

What to check after installation

• The units are firmly fixed and level, with no vibration.
• The pipes are insulated along their entire visible length.
• The condensate drains and does not drip where it would be a nuisance.
• The outdoor unit has free air intake and exhaust, and a technician can reach it.
• You can operate the modes and know how to clean the filters.

What to ask before installation

• Who will work with the refrigerant and do they hold the relevant certificate?
• What is the procedure for leak testing and preparing the circuit?
• How many metres of pipe and what materials are included in the price?
• Who services the unit after installation?

We describe how installation works with us on the Air conditioner installation page.

How to avoid mistakes

Choose a company that explains the procedure and states the scope of work in its quote. You will find tips in the article How to choose an air conditioner installation company. Installation of Daikin air conditioners in Bratislava and the surrounding area: Daikin air conditioners · Contact.