The Ultimate Air Conditioner Installation Checklist

Consider this checklist your go-to guide for navigating the air conditioner installation process smoothly and efficiently. Whether you’re a homeowner wanting things done right or a professional installer keeping standards high, this resource will help you stay organized and avoid costly missteps throughout the project.
Pre-Installation: Getting ready for your Air Conditioner Installation
- System Sizing: Don’t skip this. Have a qualified technician do a Manual J load calculation. Proper sizing keeps things running efficiently and avoids nasty energy bills.
- Unit Placement:
- Indoors: Aim for a central spot. This isn’t the place for shortcuts or guesswork.
- Outdoors: Find a shaded, solid surface. Your condenser needs breathing room—leave at least a foot on each side.
- Site Prep:
- Electrical: Double-check your home’s power situation. The AC requires a dedicated circuit. If you aren’t sure, call a pro.
- Ductwork (for central AC): Inspect and seal any duct leaks. No sense cooling the attic.
- Clear the Work Area: Make sure both inside and outside zones are free of clutter. This keeps the install running smooth.
Installation: Inside the real air conditioner installation process
- Safety: Power off. Gas off. Don’t take any risks.
- Mounting & Drilling: Get the indoor mounting plate installed and drill a slightly downward-angled hole to the outside—it’s all about proper drainage.
- Making Connections:
- Refrigerant Lines: Insulated copper lines go between indoor and outdoor units.
- Electrical: Correct wiring is non-negotiable—use the manufacturer diagram.
- Drain Line: Needs the right slope or you’ll have issues with water backing up.
- System Checks:
- Vacuum: Use a pump to clear air and moisture. It’s a must, not an extra step.
- Refrigerant Charge: Add the correct refrigerant—accuracy matters.
- Leak Check: Take a moment with a leak detector. No shortcuts here.
Post Installation: Air conditioner installation handover
- System Testing: Turn the unit on. Run it through cooling and fan modes. Check airflow and listen for anything unusual.
- Final Inspection:
- Confirm the indoor and outdoor units are level and solid.
- Check that pipes and wiring are neatly arranged and well-insulated.
- Ensure the installation site is clean—no debris or leftover packaging.
- Handover to Homeowner:
- Walk through how to use the controls. Don’t assume prior knowledge.
- Explain simple maintenance—filter changes, basic troubleshooting.
- Provide all manuals, warranty documents, and the invoice.
Follow this process, and the air conditioner installation will go off without a hitch—on schedule, on budget, and with no surprises. That’s how you run a professional project.
Spinel Dynamics is a HVAC company that deal with design, supply, installations, repair, maintenance and all air conditioner installation in Kenya. We don’t just install an air conditioning system and leave, we ensure it runs smoothly, all the time, without any hitch.
Why Spinel? We are commitment to transparency & honesty. We offer unmatched expertise & certified professionals, customized solutions, exceptional customer service, and long-term reliability and support.
Feel free to contact us in any case.