Putting in an air conditioner takes different amounts of time. It really depends on what kind of AC you are putting in. A small window unit might take an hour or two. A big central air system could take one to three days. Most home AC jobs by pros take about one full day. We will look at what makes the time change for different types of AC units and jobs.
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Seeing the Time Needed for Different AC Types
The kind of air conditioner you pick is the biggest thing that changes how long it takes to put it in. Some types are simple. Some types are much harder.
Window Unit Installation Time
Window units are the most simple. They go right into a window frame. Or they go through a wall.
- DIY (Do It Yourself): If you are putting it in yourself, it can be quick. You lift it. You slide it into the window. You add side panels. You might use some foam strips. This can take just 30 minutes to 2 hours. It depends on the size of the unit and how easy the window is. You need to be strong enough to lift it safely.
- Professional Help: Sometimes people hire someone to put in a window unit. Maybe the unit is very heavy. Maybe the window is hard to reach. A pro can usually do this very fast. It might take them just 1 hour to 2 hours. They have the right tools and know how to do it fast and safely.
Window units are good for cooling just one room. They do not need special pipes or big changes to your house. This is why the installation time is short.
Through-the-Wall Unit Installation Time
These units are like window units. But they go into a hole cut in a wall.
- New Hole Needed: If you do not have a hole already, cutting one takes time. The wall material matters. Wood is easier than brick or concrete. This part can take several hours. Putting the sleeve in the wall comes next. Then the unit goes into the sleeve. This whole job, starting with no hole, might take 3 to 6 hours or more for a pro. It is not a common DIY job if a new hole is needed.
- Replacing an Old Unit: If you are just replacing an old unit in an existing wall hole, it is much faster. You take the old one out. You slide the new one in. This is more like installing a window unit. It might take 1 to 3 hours.
These units are also good for cooling one room. But putting in the wall sleeve is a bigger job than just putting something in a window.
Split System AC Installation Time (Also known as Ductless Mini Split Installation Time)
Split systems are more complex. They have two main parts. One part sits outside your house. It has a compressor and condenser. The other part sits inside. It goes on a wall or ceiling. Thin copper pipes connect the two parts. Electrical wires and a drain line also connect them. These units are great for cooling one or a few rooms without air ducts.
- Single Zone (One inside unit): This is the most simple split system. One outside unit connects to one inside unit. Pros installing this usually take 4 to 8 hours. Sometimes it takes a full day. They need to:
- Put the outside unit in place.
- Put the inside unit on a wall.
- Drill a hole through the wall for the lines.
- Run the copper pipes, wires, and drain line.
- Connect everything.
- Pull out the air from the pipes (vacuum the lines).
- Let the cooling stuff (refrigerant) flow.
- Test the system.
- Clean up.
This takes skill and special tools. It is not a common DIY job.
- Multi-Zone (Multiple inside units): This system has one outside unit but connects to many inside units. Maybe you want to cool three or four rooms. The outside unit is bigger. It needs to handle more. Each inside unit needs pipes, wires, and a drain line back to the outside unit. This makes the job much longer. Installing a multi-zone system can take 1 to 3 days for a team of pros. The time depends on:
- How many inside units you have.
- How far apart the units are.
- How hard it is to run the lines inside your walls or ceiling.
Ductless mini split installation time is much longer than window units. This is because of the pipes, wires, and vacuuming steps. It needs trained people to do it right.
Central Air Installation Duration (Also known as Residential AC Unit Installation Duration)
Central air is the most complex type for a home. It cools your whole house using a system of air ducts. It has an outside unit (like a split system) and an inside unit (an air handler or furnace coil).
- Adding Central Air to a House with Ducts: If your house already has air ducts for heating, putting in central air is easier. The pros use the same duct system to send cool air around. The job still takes a lot of steps:
- Put the outside unit in place.
- Put the inside unit (coil) above or next to your furnace.
- Connect the outside and inside units with pipes and wires.
- Connect the inside unit to the ductwork.
- Run electrical power to both units.
- Maybe change your thermostat to a cooling one.
- Vacuum the lines.
- Add cooling stuff (refrigerant).
- Test the system in all rooms.
This job usually takes a team of pros 1 to 3 days. The time changes based on how easy it is to work with your existing ducts and house setup.
- Adding Central Air to a House without Ducts: This is the biggest job. The pros have to put in a whole new system of air ducts throughout your house. This means cutting holes, running metal or flexible pipes in your walls, ceilings, and floors. This adds a lot of time and work. Installing central air, including all new ducts, can take 3 to 7 days or even longer. It is a big construction project inside your home.
Central air installation duration is the longest of all home AC types. It involves many parts and often deals with the structure of your house. This is why the timeline is measured in days.
Summary of Average AC Installation Time Ranges
Here is a quick look at the typical times for different AC types:
| AC Type | DIY Time | Professional Time |
|---|---|---|
| Window Unit | 30 minutes – 2 hours | 1 hour – 2 hours |
| Through-the-Wall (Replace) | Not common DIY | 1 hour – 3 hours |
| Through-the-Wall (New Hole) | Not common DIY | 3 hours – 6+ hours |
| Split System (Single Zone) | Not common DIY | 4 hours – 8 hours |
| Split System (Multi-Zone) | Not common DIY | 1 day – 3 days |
| Central Air (Existing Ducts) | Not common DIY | 1 day – 3 days |
| Central Air (New Ducts) | Not common DIY | 3 days – 7+ days |
Note: DIY times are estimates for someone handy. Professional times are for experienced teams.
This table shows the average AC installation time for each type. But many things can change these times.
Things That Change AC Install Time (Factors Affecting AC Install Time)
The times we listed are just averages. Your specific job might take more or less time. Many things can speed up or slow down the work. Knowing these things helps you know what to expect.
Type and Size of the AC Unit
We already saw this is a big one. A small window unit is fast. A big central system is slow. The exact size (BTUs) of the unit also matters. A very large unit might need bigger pipes or special electrical work, which adds time.
Where the Unit Goes
- Outside Unit: Is there a good, flat spot near the house? Or is it on a steep hill? Does the team have to carry it far? Is there room to work around it?
- Inside Unit: For central air, is the furnace in an easy-to-reach basement? Or is it in a tight attic crawl space? For split systems, is the wall unit going on a simple wall? Or one with pipes or wires inside it? Is it high up on a vaulted ceiling? Hard-to-reach spots take longer.
Age and Type of Your House
Older houses can be tricky. Walls might not be straight. There might be old wiring or pipes in the way. Getting new pipes and wires through old walls can be hard and slow. Newer houses are often built to make adding systems easier. The type of construction (wood frame, brick, concrete) also matters, especially if cutting holes is needed.
Existing System (If Replacing)
Are you taking out an old AC system? This adds time. The pros need to safely remove the old unit, pipes, and wires. If the old system used different connections, the new one might need changes. AC replacement installation time is often a bit longer than putting in a system where there was none before. This is because removal adds steps. However, if you are replacing a central system with another central system using the same ducts and location, the replacement might be faster than installing new ducts.
Electrical Work Needed
All AC units need power.
* Window units plug into a regular outlet, but maybe you need a new, stronger outlet nearby.
* Split systems and central air need dedicated circuits from your electrical panel. This means running new wires. This work must be done by an electrician or an AC pro with electrical skills. Running these wires takes time. If your electrical panel is old or full, they might even need to upgrade it. This is a big job on its own.
Ductwork (For Central Air)
- Condition of Existing Ducts: If you have ducts, are they in good shape? Are they the right size for the new AC? Do they leak air? The pros might need to fix, clean, or seal old ducts. This adds time.
- Adding or Changing Ducts: If you need new ducts, or if the old ones need big changes to work with the new AC, this takes a lot of time and effort. As mentioned, putting in all new ducts is the longest part of installing central air in a house that didn’t have them.
Team Size
Is it one person doing the work? Or is it a team of two or three? More people can often do the job faster, especially for bigger systems like central air or multi-zone split systems. A professional AC installation timeline often depends on how many skilled workers are on the job.
Time of Year
When you install your AC matters. In the hot summer months, AC companies are very busy. They might have many jobs lined up. This can sometimes affect scheduling. The weather on the day of install also matters. Heavy rain or very hot weather can slow down outside work or make it unsafe.
Permits and Inspections
Some places need permits before you can install a new AC system, especially central air or split systems. This is to make sure the work is safe and meets building rules. Getting a permit takes time before the work starts. After the work is done, an inspector might need to check it. This check takes extra time after the pros leave. Your installer should handle this, but it adds steps to the overall process.
Unexpected Problems
Sometimes, pros start a job and find something they didn’t expect. Maybe there’s bad wiring hidden in a wall. Maybe the floor joists are in the way of running pipes. These surprises can cause delays. A good installer will plan for some possible issues, but they can still add time.
Knowing the Professional AC Installation Timeline
When you hire pros, they follow a set process. Knowing their steps helps you see why it takes the time it does.
- First Visit (Estimate): A company rep comes to your house. They look at your house, your old system (if any), and where the new AC will go. They figure out what size unit you need. They give you a price and a general idea of the time. This visit might take 30 minutes to 1.5 hours.
- Planning and Scheduling: After you say yes, the company plans the job. They order the equipment. They schedule the team. This happens in the office. You just wait for the install date. This part can take days or weeks, depending on how busy they are and if the unit is in stock.
- Installation Day(s): The crew comes to your house.
- Prep Work: They might lay down cloths to protect your floors. They bring in tools and equipment. They might turn off power or water lines. This takes 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Removal of Old Unit (if needed): They safely take out the old AC unit, pipes, and wires. This can take 1 hour to half a day, depending on the old system.
- Putting in New Units: They set the outside unit. They put the inside unit or coil in place. This involves heavy lifting. It takes 1 to 3 hours per unit part.
- Running Lines: They connect the inside and outside units with copper pipes, electrical wires, and drain lines. They drill holes if needed. They run the lines through walls, attics, or basements. This is often the longest part for split systems or central air, taking 2 hours to a full day or more.
- Electrical Connections: They wire the new units to your electrical panel. They might add breakers or run new circuits. This needs care and takes 1 hour to a half day.
- Ductwork (for central air): If working with ducts, they connect the new unit. If adding new ducts, this takes a lot of time, spread over the install days.
- Testing and Charging: They use a special vacuum pump to remove air from the copper lines. This is important for the system to work right. It takes 30 minutes to 1.5 hours. Then they let the refrigerant (the cooling stuff) flow into the system.
- Final Checks: They turn the system on. They check temperatures. They make sure air flows right. They check for leaks. They show you how to use the thermostat. This takes 1 hour to 2 hours.
- Cleanup: They clean up all their mess, take away old parts, and leave your house tidy. This takes 30 minutes to 1 hour.
So, a simple central air replacement might follow these steps in one day. A more complex job with new ducts or multiple split system heads will spread these steps over several days. The professional AC installation timeline is a total of all these steps.
Thinking About DIY Air Conditioner Installation Time
Can you install an air conditioner yourself? For some types, yes. For others, it is not a good idea.
- Window Units: This is the most common DIY job. As mentioned, it usually takes 30 minutes to 2 hours. You need basic tools like a screwdriver, maybe a level, and some safety gear. You also need to be able to lift the unit. Make sure to follow the maker’s steps exactly. If you don’t install it right, it can fall, leak water, or not cool well.
- Portable AC Units: These are the easiest. They sit on the floor inside. You just connect a hose to a window kit. This takes 15 minutes to 1 hour. Very simple DIY.
- Through-the-Wall Units: Replacing one in an existing sleeve is possible DIY, taking 1 to 3 hours. But if you need to cut a new hole, this is a big job. It needs building skills, special tools, and knowing about wall structure. Not a typical DIY job for most people.
- Split Systems (Ductless Mini Splits): While you can buy DIY mini split kits, installing them correctly is still hard. You need to work with electricity. You need to handle copper pipes. You need to vacuum the lines, which needs special tools. You need to add refrigerant, which is controlled by law in many places. If you do this wrong, the unit won’t work, you can damage it, or cause a dangerous leak. DIY air conditioner installation time for these is likely longer than a pro (maybe a full day or two for one unit if you know what you are doing). But the risk of mistakes is high. Most people hire pros for this.
- Central Air: This is a very complex system. It involves high-voltage electricity, refrigerant handling, sheet metal ductwork, and matching components. This is never a DIY job for a homeowner. It needs licensed HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) professionals.
In short, DIY is really only good for window and portable units. For split systems or central air, hire pros. They have the training, tools, and knowledge to do the job safely and correctly. Trying these complex installs yourself will take a lot of DIY air conditioner installation time, cost you money if you make mistakes, and might even be against local laws.
AC Replacement Installation Time
When you replace an old AC, the time it takes depends on how much is changing.
- Simple Swap: If you are replacing an old central AC or split system with a new one of the same type and size, using the same locations, wiring, and (for central air) ducts, the job is faster. The pros just swap out the old for the new. They still have to do the steps of removal, installation, connecting lines, electrical, vacuuming, and testing. This kind of AC replacement installation time is often on the shorter end of the range for that system type (e.g., 1 day for central air, 4-6 hours for a single split system).
- Upgrade or Change: If you are changing the type of system (e.g., from window units to a split system), or putting in a much bigger central unit, or changing the location of units, or needing duct repairs/changes, the time goes up. This becomes more like a new installation. The AC replacement installation time will be longer because of the extra work needed to change things around. For example, replacing an old central AC that needs ductwork fixed will take longer than replacing one where the ducts are fine.
Always ask the installer if the time quote is for a straight replacement or if it includes extra work needed because of the system change or house condition.
Getting a Grip on Residential AC Unit Installation Duration
For most homes, we are talking about window units, split systems, or central air.
* Residential AC unit installation duration for a single window unit is very fast, minutes to an hour or two.
* For a ductless mini split system (single zone), it’s typically half a day to a full day. For multi-zone, it’s one to three days.
* For central air (the most common residential AC unit type for whole-house cooling), the installation duration is usually one to three days if you have ducts, and three to seven days if you need new ducts.
These times are for professional installation. They include the team working steadily to get the job done right. The exact residential AC unit installation duration for your home depends on all the factors we talked about: the specific system, your house’s layout, age, and any needed electrical or duct work.
Planning and Waiting Time
Remember that the installation time is just the time the crew is actually working at your house. The whole process takes longer. You need time for:
- Getting estimates from different companies.
- Choosing a company and unit.
- Waiting for the unit to be ordered and delivered.
- Waiting for the company to have an opening in their schedule. This can be a long wait during peak season (hot summer).
- Getting permits, if required.
- The installation itself.
- Maybe waiting for an inspection afterward.
So, while the average AC installation time on the day might be 8 hours or 3 days, the total time from deciding you need a new AC to having it up and running could be weeks or even months during busy times. Plan ahead if you can!
Tips for a Smooth Installation
To help the installation go as quickly and smoothly as possible:
- Clear the Area: Move furniture or other items away from where the indoor and outdoor units will go. Also clear paths pros will use to carry equipment.
- Secure Pets: Keep pets in a different room or area so they don’t get in the way or get hurt.
- Ask Questions: Talk to your installer about the timeline. Ask them what to expect each day if it is a multi-day job.
- Check the Work: Before they leave, do a quick check. Is the unit running? Is cold air coming out? Does the thermostat work? Are the areas clean?
- Get Paperwork: Make sure you get all the papers: warranty info, user manual, and contract details.
Following these tips can help the professional AC installation timeline stay on track and make things easier for everyone.
Wrapping Up: Summing Up AC Installation Time
So, how long does it take to install an air conditioner?
* Small ones like window units: 1-2 hours.
* Ductless mini splits (split system AC installation time): Half a day to 3 days depending on how many indoor units.
* Central air (Central air installation duration / Residential AC unit installation duration): 1-7 days depending on if new ducts are needed.
The average AC installation time for a standard home central AC replacement is often about 1 to 2 full days with a professional team. But remember all the factors affecting AC install time. Things like your house age, electrical needs, and the specific unit can make it shorter or longer.
DIY air conditioner installation time is only really possible for window units (quick) and maybe portable ones (very quick). For anything more complex, hiring pros is safer and smarter. They have the right tools and training. They make sure the job is done correctly so your new AC cools your home well for many years.
Always get a detailed estimate from your installer. They can give you the most accurate timeline for your specific situation. Knowing the typical times and what affects them helps you plan and reduces surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can an AC installation be done in one day?
A: Yes, many AC installations can be done in one day. Simple central air replacements or single-zone ductless mini splits are often finished within one working day by a pro team. Window units and portable units are much faster, often just an hour or two. Bigger jobs like central air with new ducts or multi-zone mini splits usually take longer than one day.
Q: Is installing central air disruptive to the home?
A: Yes, central air installation can be disruptive. Workers will be in and out of your house. They might need access to your attic, basement, or crawl space. There will be some noise from tools. If new ducts are installed, there might be dust and minor construction work. Pros try to keep mess down and clean up, but it’s not a quiet, invisible process.
Q: How long after installation can I turn on my new AC?
A: Usually, the installer will turn on and test the system right after they finish. You should be able to use your new AC as soon as they tell you it’s ready and they leave. They will show you how to use it before they go.
Q: Why does vacuuming the lines take time for split systems and central air?
A: Vacuuming (or “evacuating”) the lines pulls out all the air and moisture from the copper pipes that connect the indoor and outdoor units. Air and moisture can cause problems in the cooling system. It can lead to poor performance or even damage the unit. This step needs a special vacuum pump and takes time to get a good vacuum in the lines. It is a very important step for these types of systems.
Q: How long does it take to replace an old AC unit?
A: AC replacement installation time depends on the type of unit and what needs to be done. If it’s a simple swap of a central air unit with no changes needed to ducts or electrical, it might be 1-2 days. Replacing an old window unit takes 1-3 hours. If the replacement involves upgrading to a different type or requires major changes (like fixing ducts or upgrading electrical), it will take longer, similar to a new installation.
Q: What should I do to get ready for AC installation day?
A: Clear the path the installers will use. Move anything blocking where the indoor and outdoor units will go. Make sure someone is home to let the installers in and be there if they have questions. Keep pets out of the work area. Ask the company if they have any specific requests before they arrive.