If you’re out hunting to replace or upgrade your HVAC, one of the most common questions might be, How long does it take to install an HVAC system? By no means always a cut-and-dried matter. Several factors can cause installation time to vary widely, including the HVAC system type, building size, condition of existing ductwork, and installation location.
While most standard installations will take a day or two, some of the more involved tasks may take several days.
The Key Factors That Influence the Time Required to Install an HVAC System, as Well as What You Can Expect During the Process
1. The Size of Your Home or Building
One of the biggest factors that determines the timing of an HVAC installation is the size of the home or business property. Larger houses have more square footage to heat and cool, so installing the HVAC unit takes longer and may require multiple units or zones.
- Small Houses (less than 2,000 sq. ft.): A routine HVAC replacement should be feasible in one workday.
- Medium and Large Houses (2,000–3,500 sq. ft.): Set aside one or two full days, depending on whether you need to replace or upgrade the ductwork.
- Large or Two-Story Houses: These might take three or more days, depending on the existence of two or more systems or intricately configured ductwork.
Also, if your crawl space or attic is limited and you need to install equipment there, it adds to the total time.
2. What Kind of Installation Are You Receiving?
The kind of installation contributes a great deal toward helping to account for the time. A large variance exists between replacing one system with another identical system and installing a new one from the ground up.
Simple System Changeout
A changeout is the installation of a new HVAC system in place of an old one, utilizing the original infrastructure, wire runs, and ductwork. It is the most abbreviated installation process and typically takes 4–8 hours.
Full HVAC System Installation
If your home has never had central heat or air, or you’re converting from another system, then you’ll need to install a full system. This involves:
- Installing new ductwork
- Replacing electrical components or installing them
- Installation of the control panel and thermostat
- Venting and drainage replacement
You can complete all these tasks in 3 to 5 days, depending on the work pace, complexity, and any unexpected problems that arise during installation.
Ductwork Changes or Replacement
33Even if your HVAC unit doesn’t need replacement, you may need to install new, leaky, or inefficient ductwork over a few days. Well-designed ductwork can reduce the efficiency of your HVAC unit by as much as 30%, so this is another big aspect of the job.
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3. What Kind of HVAC unit Is Going In?
The model of the HVAC equipment also has an effect on how long it takes to install. Some are quicker than others.
- Central Air Conditioning: TBD In most houses, the installation itself will take one or two days.
- Ductless Mini-Split Systems: The units can sometimes be installed quicker, particularly in houses that don’t have preinstalled ducts, and take a day or less, depending on the number of indoor units required.
- Heat Pumps: Heat pumps take as long to install as central air systems but might require some additional setup for cooling and heating functionality.
- Furnace and AC Combo: If you’re replacing an AC unit and a furnace simultaneously, this will generally be more structured and could take 2–3 days.
High-efficiency systems are or consist of such features as air cleaners, smart thermostats, or zoned systems that will take longer to install.
4. Installation Accessibility and Location
Location in physical space where the unit is being installed can also be a factor. Installation within a residence that has an accessible basement or mechanical room is much quicker than installation within attic space or in a substandard crawl space.
In urban areas or multi-story buildings, HVAC systems are often placed on rooftops. This means
- Crane usage might be necessary to lift heavy equipment to the roof.
- Permit delays could occur, especially if you’re in a building with HOA rules or zoning restrictions.
- Extra labor may be needed to accommodate the unique challenges of tall or complex buildings.
- Figure on it taking longer in these situations—perhaps a day or two longer, depending upon how ready the site is.
5. Permit and Inspection Requirements
A permit to install an HVAC system will typically be required by most cities. A building inspector might need to follow up after installation to inspect the system to make sure that it meets city building codes.
Although permits won’t extend the duration of actual installation, they will delay the beginning or completion of the project if not handled in the right way. Your HVAC technician can handle this for you, but be sure to ask.
Other Time Factors That May Impact the Installation
- Removing old equipment: Removing an old system may take a few hours.
- Surprise repairs: Concealed problems such as mold, cracked slabs, or out-of-date wiring may create surprise delays.
- Bad weather: Inclement weather will require delays, particularly for outside components or rooftop units.
- Availability schedule: HVAC service companies will be booked weeks ahead of time during the busy season (winter and summer) and will book your start date according to it.
To install an HVAC system, it will take a day to five days, depending on your case. Here is an estimated breakdown:
- Easy replacement: 1 day
- Ductless mini-split: 1–2 days
- Complete system with ductwork: 3–5 days
- Extremely complicated commercial or rooftop installations: A week
Summing Up!
Every project is different, and a professional technician will need to prepare a more detailed estimate to visit your house. Start by contacting your local HVAC technician at Value Air and Heat to schedule an in-home appointment. We will provide you with a detailed timeline and quote estimate based on your needs.
As a resident of Seminole, call us to get professional advice and schedule your installation.