How to Prepare for HVAC Installation

Your HVAC installation day is coming. Proper preparation ensures smooth installation, minimal disruption, and best results.

Here's your complete checklist.

Pre-Installation (1 Week Before)

1. Clear Access Areas

• Indoor: Clear closets/attic where air handler might be located
• Outdoor: Remove furniture, plants, debris near outdoor unit
• Hallways: Ensure clear path for 6-foot equipment/ductwork
• Radius: 3-foot clearance around all work areas

What contractors need: Space to move equipment, set up tools

2. Protect Flooring

• Lay cardboard or plastic sheeting along walkways
• Protects carpets from dirt/dust
• Contractors appreciate this (means careful homeowner)

3. Park Your Car

• Move car from driveway if possible
• Contractors need space for truck
• Installation takes 6-10 hours (full day or longer)

4. Inform Neighbors

• Noise warning: 7am-4pm (typical hours)
• Truck parking: May occupy street space
• Dust: Minimal but possible (outdoor unit removal)

5. Arrange Home Access

• Someone home during installation (access to electrical, permits)
• Bathrooms unlocked (installers need facilities)
• Keep pets contained (prevents escape)

6. Review Thermostat Settings

• Note current temperature preferences
• Document any special schedules
• Plan to reset after installation

7. Gather Important Documents

• Building permit information (if applicable)
• Previous HVAC paperwork
• Homeowner insurance info
• Ask for final invoice template

Day Before Installation

1. Final Walkthrough

• Meet with lead technician (if possible)
• Confirm access points
• Discuss any last-minute questions
• Show location of electrical panel

2. Prepare Final Payment

• Confirm payment method accepted
• Have check or card ready
• Typically payment due upon completion

3. Protect Valuables

• Move items away from work areas
• Secure important documents
• Lock up small valuable items

4. Note Current System

• Take photos of old system (for insurance records)
• Document serial number/model (for warranty)
• Note thermostat type/settings

5. Plan Your Day

• Work from home if possible
• Minimize disruptions
• Don't plan anything requiring quiet

Installation Day

Morning (Contractor Arrival)

9am - 9:30am typical:

1. Contractors arrive and assess
2. Review scope of work
3. Confirm system type/specs
4. Set up work zones
5. Prepare electrical connections

What you do:

• Have coffee/breakfast before work starts
• Plan to be home (required for permits)
• Keep phone accessible (questions may arise)

During Installation (6-10 Hours)

What to expect:

• Noise: Drilling, saw sounds (expect it)
• Dust: Minimal inside, some outdoors
• Disruption: Hallway access may be blocked
• Temperature: May feel cold (system tested multiple times)

What contractors need:

• Electrical access (panel, breakers)
• Water access (for testing)
• Clear workspace
• Bathroom access

What you can do:

• Stay out of work areas
• Keep doors open for access
• Offer water/coffee (builds rapport!)
• Don't turn off power (can interrupt work)

System Testing (Last 1-2 Hours)

Contractor performs:

• Refrigerant pressure check
• Thermostat calibration
• Heating/cooling test cycles
• Electrical safety inspection
• Ductwork balance (if applicable)

System may run 3-5 cycles, so expect:

• Multiple on/off cycles
• Various temperatures
• Different fan speeds
• All normal

End of Day

Final walkthrough:

1. ✓ Inspect indoor equipment placement
2. ✓ Test thermostat heating and cooling
3. ✓ Review warranty documentation
4. ✓ Ask how to operate new system
5. ✓ Confirm next service appointment

Payment:

• Final invoice typically provided
• Payment usually due same day
• Get receipt and warranty paperwork

Post-Installation (First 24 Hours)

1. System Adjustment Period

• First 24 hours: System "learns" your home
• May run longer than normal (this is okay)
• Temperature precision improves by day 3-5

2. Thermostat Programming

• Learn new thermostat (if upgraded)
• Set preferred temperatures
• Set schedules (if programmable)
• Ask contractor for training if needed

3. Monitor Operation

• Note any unusual sounds
• Check that all vents blow air
• Verify heating/cooling works
• Normal: System running frequently first few days

4. Filter Installation

• New filter should be installed
• Note replacement schedule
• Set phone reminder (90 days)

5. Document Everything

• Keep photos of new system
• Save warranty paperwork
• Note serial numbers
• Mark filter replacement date

Common Questions During Installation

"Why is it so loud?"

• Normal during testing cycles
• System running through startup sequence
• Will settle down after day 1

"Why is my house cold/hot?"

• Thermostat being recalibrated
• Old system had been struggling
• System will balance in 24 hours

"Why is the system running so much?"

• Variable-speed systems run continuously (normal!)
• First-time temperature stabilization
• System optimization in progress

"Can I turn off the system?"

• Please don't during installation
• Contractors need it running for tests
• After completion, operate normally

What to Have Ready

For the contractor:

• Electrical panel access
• Fresh water (filling testing receptacles)
• Bathroom access
• Clear workspace
• Permit paperwork (if applicable)

For yourself:

• Notepad for questions/notes
• Pen
• Phone number for contractor
• Payment method
• Time off work (recommend full day home)

Timeline Expectations

Task	Time
Equipment removal	1-2 hours
New install/placement	2-3 hours
Ductwork connections	1-2 hours
Electrical setup	1 hour
System testing	1-2 hours
Final walkthrough	30 min
Total	6-10 hours

Factors affecting length:

• Old system removal difficulty
• Ductwork modifications
• Electrical upgrades
• Custom applications

After Installation: Maintenance Schedule

Week 1: System stabilizes Month 1: First professional check-up Annually: Professional maintenance Every 90 days: Filter replacement

Questions Before Work Starts?

Call us to discuss your preparation plan.

Confirm Installation Details | Call (925) 578-3293