More homeowners are considering air conditioning installation, with the UK experiencing increasingly warmer summers. One of the most common questions we’re asked at NJ Lees is about installation timeframes. Whether you’re planning ahead or facing an unexpected heatwave, understanding the timeline for air conditioning installation helps you plan effectively.
Typical Installation Timeframes
The time required to install an air conditioning system varies depending on several factors, but here’s what you can typically expect:
Single Room Split System: 1 Day
For a standard single split system installation in one room:
- 4-6 hours for a straightforward installation
- 6-8 hours if additional electrical work is required
Most single-room installations can be completed within one working day, allowing you to enjoy cool comfort by evening if work begins in the morning.
Multi-Split Systems: 1-3 Days
For homes requiring multiple indoor units connected to a single outdoor condenser:
- 1-2 days for a two-room system
- 2-3 days for three or more rooms
The complexity increases with each additional indoor unit, as each requires its own refrigerant line, drainage, and electrical connections.
Ducted Systems: 3-5 Days
For whole-house ducted systems:
- 3-5 days for a complete installation
- May extend to a week if structural modifications are necessary
As we discussed in our article about air conditioning in conservatories, larger installations require more extensive planning and work.
Factors That Affect Installation Time
Several variables can influence how long your installation will take:
1. Type and Complexity of System
As mentioned above, the type of system you’re installing is the primary factor determining installation time. A simple wall-mounted unit is much quicker to install than a concealed ducted system requiring ceiling access.
2. Property Characteristics
The physical characteristics of your property can significantly impact installation time:
- Accessibility of installation locations
- Wall construction (solid brick walls take longer than stud walls)
- Distance between indoor and outdoor units
- Routes for refrigerant piping and drainage
Older properties often present more challenges than new builds, sometimes extending installation by half a day or more.
3. Electrical Requirements
Most modern homes will handle the electrical demands of air conditioning, but some properties may need:
- Electrical consumer unit upgrades
- Installation of additional circuits
- Special wiring for smart control systems
As explained in our guide on understanding air conditioning energy efficiency ratings, newer systems are more energy-efficient but may have specific power requirements.
4. Required Permissions
In some cases, especially for listed buildings or properties in conservation areas, you may need to secure permissions before installation. This won’t extend the physical installation time, but it will affect your overall project timeline.
The Installation Process Breakdown
To give you a clearer picture, here’s how a typical installation progresses:
Pre-Installation Visit (1-2 hours)
Before any work begins, we conduct a thorough assessment to:
- Confirm the best locations for indoor and outdoor units
- Check electrical supply adequacy
- Identify pipe routing options
- Take precise measurements
This visit is crucial for a smooth installation day and is typically scheduled 1-2 weeks before installation.
Installation Day
- Preparation (30-60 minutes)
- Protecting floors and furnishings
- Setting up tools and equipment
- Explaining the day’s process
- Mounting Indoor Unit (1-2 hours)
- Creating access hole for pipes and cables
- Securing mounting bracket
- Attaching indoor unit
- Installing Outdoor Unit (1-2 hours)
- Positioning on pre-prepared base or wall brackets
- Ensuring correct clearances for airflow
- Connecting Units (1-2 hours)
- Running refrigerant pipes between units
- Installing drainage lines
- Completing electrical connections
- System Commissioning (1-2 hours)
- Pressure testing pipes
- Evacuating air from the system
- Charging with refrigerant
- Testing operation and controls
- Cleanup and Handover (30 minutes)
- Removing all debris and packaging
- Demonstrating system operation
- Providing user manual and instructions
Planning Your Air Con Installation in Worthing
For residents considering air conditioning installation in Worthing, planning ahead is key to ensuring a smooth process. The summer months are our busiest period, with wait times sometimes extending to several weeks.
We recommend scheduling your installation during spring or early summer to avoid the peak season rush. This allows you to have your system installed and ready before the hottest days arrive.
Our F-Gas certified engineers cover all areas of Worthing and surrounding areas, providing expert air con installation with minimal disruption to your home. We pride ourselves on clean, efficient workmanship and can typically complete most residential installations within a single day.
If you’re considering air con installation in Worthing, contact our team for a no-obligation survey and quotation. We’ll provide a clear timeline tailored to your specific requirements and property, ensuring you know exactly what to expect from your installation process.
