Top 9 Tips for Efficient Air Conditioner Installation When Purchasing a New One

This is a crucial step as it nearly determines the operational capacity of the unit. The air conditioner consists of both the condenser and the evaporator, each with specific operating principles, so their installation also varies. Depending on the conditions of each household or customer's unique installation requirements, additional materials may be necessary.

If you do not plan the air conditioner installation location in advance during the house construction, it can lead to significant inefficiencies in device performance. It may even require additional expenses for house modifications to relocate the unit. Therefore, determining the placement of the condenser and evaporator, considering insulation or water drainage if they are to be concealed in the wall or ceiling for aesthetic purposes, is something to contemplate during the pre-plastering or false ceiling construction phase. Different air conditioner models have different capacities, forms, and technical requirements for pipes and wires. Some units may require additional safety equipment such as a disconnect switch and auxiliary circuit breaker.

Prepare the materials:

• Copper tubing
• Flexible drainpipe for water discharge from the evaporator to the outside
• Electrical box
• Electrical wires
• Insulation tape

Determining the position of the drainage pipe is a crucial step because condensation and liquefaction in the process generate water vapor. If the pipe is improperly placed and not properly wrapped, it can cause water leakage, adversely affecting the wall structure, promoting mold growth, and compromising hygiene.

Condensate from the air conditioner can drain into roof systems, floor drains, or kitchen sinks, but it is best to direct water flow directly into pipe systems without letting it spill onto the floor or seep into the wall.

For pipes placed underground in the wall, it is essential to insulate them against cold water, which can negatively impact the wall structure, leading to mold or cracks. Air conditioner water can drain into roof systems, floor drains, or kitchen sinks. However, it is advisable to direct water flow directly into pipe systems and avoid letting water drain onto the floor.

Incorrect air conditioner installation can lead to malfunctions, gas leaks, water leaks, reduced lifespan, causing damage to the user's time, money, and health.

To ensure smooth operation of the air conditioner, it is essential to have professional installers. Inviting the right installer can benefit you in many ways:

• Save time and installation costs as serious errors are less likely to occur
• Get accurate advice on the installation location to ensure the longevity of the unit
• With professional tools and industry knowledge, installers will help your air conditioner operate smoothly

Usually, stores selling air conditioners also provide this service. Additionally, if you have a trusted acquaintance, you can ask them to help with the installation to save costs.

The minimum length that the connecting tubing between the evaporator and the condenser (copper tubing) must achieve for the air conditioner to function well and protect the compressor is 3 meters. When installing a new air conditioner, it's essential to inform the technician that the minimum copper tubing length should be 3 meters.

Procedure for wiring the copper tubing from the evaporator to the condenser:

• Step 1: Bend the tubing to reach the location of the condenser (outdoor unit)
• Step 2: Use specialized pliers to flare the end of the copper tubing to connect to the external tubing. Note: Flaring the end of the copper tubing is crucial; it must be flared with specialized tools, following the correct technique, and matching the connection end to ensure that refrigerant and refrigerant do not leak during use
• Step 3: Connect the wire from the evaporator to the copper tubing on the outside. Use a wrench to tighten and seal the two connections securely

The evaporator unit is installed inside the room for air conditioning. Therefore, avoid installing it in places where direct sunlight shines or where there is a significant temperature difference, such as near doors or windows. If installed in these locations, the direct cold air encountering hot air will condense, causing the air conditioner to sweat and drip water.

Install the air conditioner so that the airflow blows along the room rather than directing the air horizontally across the room or in a corner. This ensures even distribution of cold air in the room. If the evaporator is installed in a location where hot air is obstructed, it will significantly impact operational efficiency and consume more electricity.

Evaporator unit installation process:

• Step 1: Install the evaporator unit bracket: Measure the position for the bracket using a ruler, ensuring the unit is always balanced when installed. Secure the bracket with screws and drill holes for the copper tubing to exit
• Step 2: Connect to prepare for evaporator installation: Open the electrical box on the evaporator unit. Connect the internal wiring
• Step 3: Install copper tubing and wrap insulation: After connecting the internal wiring, start installing the copper tubing, water conduits, and insulation for the 3 evaporator unit tubes. Insulating the copper tubing must be done correctly to ensure no loss of refrigerant and refrigerant during use
• Step 4: Mount the evaporator unit on the bracket: Check and adjust for balance one final time. The evaporator unit should also be installed at a convenient height for easy cleaning and maintenance

Many people often overlook the drainage pipe of the air conditioner, which is a mistake to avoid. This water is a byproduct of the condensation and liquefaction of water vapor during the cooling process from the evaporator unit.

Many people struggle with how to handle the water pipe when the room is enclosed or the drainage area is too far from the unit. The drainage pipe can be surface-mounted in unavoidable situations, accepting a loss of aesthetics but ensuring a gradual lowering to avoid horizontal positioning.

For pipes placed underground in the wall, insulation is necessary as cold water can negatively impact the wall structure, leading to mold or cracks. Air conditioner water can drain into roof systems, floor drains, or kitchen sinks. However, it is advisable to direct water flow directly into pipe systems and avoid letting water drain onto the floor.

This is an issue related to exterior design, and if not considered during house construction, users will be completely passive with limited suitable alternatives. The air conditioner condenser unit needs to be placed outdoors but in a shaded, well-ventilated area, avoiding windy places, without obstructions in front, and preferably not facing directly towards the house.

As a vulnerable component, the condenser unit should be installed in a location easily accessible for repair and maintenance. However, it should not be overly enclosed as it may affect the cooling process and lead to machine damage.

Based on Japanese experience, using a heat-resistant plate to shield or, if possible, constructing a frame for the condenser unit with insulating material can save electricity costs from 5% to 10%. When installing the condenser unit outside the room, avoid placing it directly against the wall as it can create more noise than when positioned in a corner. The condenser unit hanging bracket needs to be securely fastened to withstand force.

Note:

• When installing the condenser unit, use rubber base pads to place it, limiting the machine's vibrations
• Install the evaporator unit higher than the condenser unit to allow oil to return to the compressor more easily, reducing maintenance or repair costs and extending the machine's lifespan
• If, due to housing conditions, you install the condenser unit higher than the evaporator unit (from 3m upwards), you will need to install an oil trap system to limit oil deficiency for the condenser unit, as it cannot suck oil back

After completing the air conditioner installation, it needs to undergo a test run. The installation personnel usually perform a test run for the customer to check and ensure everything is working properly. They provide instructions on removing and cleaning the dust filter at home.

Some additional notes:

• Avoid bending the drain pipe, as it can cause water to backflow onto the floor. Also, never connect the pipe directly to the drainage pipe unless you want your room to have an unpleasant odor and bacterial contamination.
• Do not install the air conditioner near other electrical appliances such as TVs or refrigerators.
• If the airflow is directed straight at you, it may not be a good idea. You wouldn't want to freeze while sleeping, right?
• If you live in an apartment or share a wall with neighbors, place the outdoor unit of the air conditioner a bit away from their door to avoid conflicts due to the air conditioner's noise.

Evacuating air from the air conditioner is a crucial step during installation, repairs, or maintenance. Evacuating air from the air conditioner removes air, nitrogen, and moisture from the system to create a vacuum. A vacuum environment is ideal for refrigerants such as R32, R410a, R22 to prevent condensation due to reactions with the air.

The process of evacuating air and charging refrigerant:

• Step 1: Use a pressure gauge to connect to the vacuum pump.
• Step 2: Connect the other end of the vacuum pump to the inlet of the outdoor unit.
• Step 3: Start the vacuum pump and let it remove the remaining air in the pipes. After evacuation, ensure that the vacuum level is maintained between 6 - 13 pa.