14 Jul Checklist for Air Conditioning Installation: Before and After Guide

Installing an air conditioner might seem simple at first, but it actually involves several important steps before, during, and after the installation process. That is why it is essential to have a professional aircon technician handle the job. However, as homeowners, there is still something we can do. By having a checklist, we can follow along, understand the process better, and make sure nothing is overlooked by the installer.

In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to check and prepare for, from before the installation begins to after the system is up and running, so you can enjoy a smooth and stress-free experience.

Why You Need a Aircon Checklist

Air conditioning systems are long-term investments. When installed properly, they not only cool your home effectively but also operate more efficiently, require less maintenance, and last longer. Unfortunately, many people rush into installation without a plan. They either rely solely on the technician or assume that any aircon unit will work without any issues.

A detailed checklist gives you control over the process. It helps you identify the right equipment, prepare your home, ensure safety measures are followed, and verify that everything functions correctly once installed. It is not about micromanaging your technician but about staying informed and making sure your investment is protected.

Before Installation

1. Site Preparation

The first thing to consider is the physical space where the unit will be installed. This includes both the indoor and outdoor locations. The indoor unit should ideally be installed high on the wall to allow cool air to circulate evenly. Avoid placing it above doors or windows, as that can disrupt airflow and force the unit to work harder.

As for the outdoor unit, choose a well-ventilated space with enough clearance on all sides. It should be slightly elevated to avoid contact with water during heavy rain and should not be boxed in by walls or plants. Poor placement can lead to overheating, noise issues, or reduced lifespan of the compressor.

2. Electrical Readiness

Once the site is chosen, it’s essential to make sure your home is ready to support the new system electrically. This is one step many homeowners forget to check, and it can cause problems later. Make sure your electrical wiring is up to date and that you have a dedicated circuit for the air conditioner. Overloaded circuits can trip breakers or worse, create fire hazards.

It’s also a good idea to confirm that your current voltage supports the model you plan to install. If you’re unsure, have a licensed electrician inspect your home’s power supply before installation day.

3. Aircon Unit Selection

Choosing an air conditioner is not something you should do randomly. The size and cooling power must match your room. If the unit is too small, it won’t cool the room properly. If it’s too big, it will cycle on and off too frequently, wasting energy and wearing out faster.

It’s best to ask an expert to help you choose the right size based on your room. There are many cheap aircon in Singapore that offer good quality, so you don’t need to spend a lot to get a reliable one.

4. Schedule Installation

After everything is prepared, it’s time to schedule the installation. Make sure to choose a certified and experienced professional for your aircon installation in Singapore. Don’t base your decision on price alone, as a very cheap aircon installation cost may mean corners are cut or important steps are skipped.

Once the date is set, prepare the space. Move any furniture out of the way, clear the area around the installation points, and make sure there’s easy access for tools and ladders. If you live in a condo or shared property, check with management for any installation restrictions or timing rules.

During Installation

Although the bulk of the work is in the hands of the technician, it’s still helpful for you to be around or at least aware of what’s happening. The installer should begin by mounting the indoor unit securely, making sure it’s perfectly level to avoid future leakage. Copper pipes and insulation are then connected between the indoor and outdoor units, and the drain pipe is installed at a downward slope to allow water to flow out efficiently.

Before releasing refrigerant, a vacuum pump should be used to remove moisture and air from the system. Skipping this step can lead to poor cooling performance and internal corrosion over time. The outdoor unit should be placed on a stable base or bracket, and all wiring should be properly sealed to prevent exposure to weather.

If you notice the technician rushing or skipping steps, don’t be afraid to ask questions. A reputable installer will explain what they’re doing and why.

After Installation

Once the unit is installed and powered on, the job isn’t quite done. There are still a few important checks to make sure everything is working as expected.

1. Visual Inspection

Walk around and take a good look at the setup. The indoor unit should sit flush against the wall with no visible gaps or misalignment. Pipes should be neatly arranged, and insulation should cover all exposed copper lines. The outdoor unit should be level and not wobbling. There should be no leftover parts, packaging, or tools lying around.

2. Test the System

Turn on the air conditioner and run it through different modes such as cooling, fan, and dry modes, to ensure everything responds as expected. Set a desired temperature and observe if the room starts to cool within a few minutes. Also check that the remote or smart app, if provided, is functioning smoothly.

Keep your ears open for any strange sounds like clicking, rattling, or humming, as these can indicate loose parts or internal issues.

3. Drainage & Leakage Check

Observe the drainage system, especially in the first hour of use. The water should flow smoothly through the drain pipe without any signs of leakage inside your home. The outdoor unit should also release water through its drainage outlet without forming puddles or splashing onto the wall.

If you see water dripping from the indoor unit, it’s likely a sign of improper leveling or blocked drainage.

4. Power & Safety

Check the circuit breaker to ensure it hasn’t tripped and that the system powers on and off cleanly. There should be no burning smell, smoke, or excessive heat from the wires or unit. The wiring should be securely fastened and ideally covered to protect from dust or moisture.

5. Documentation

Before the technician leaves, collect all necessary documents such as invoice, warranty card, and the product manual. Ask the installer to walk you through basic operations, such as setting the timer and switching between modes. Keep all these documents in a safe place, as you may need them for future servicing or warranty claims.

Bonus: Maintenance Tips After Installation

1. Clean the Air Filters Yourself

Keeping your air filters clean is one of the easiest DIY steps to maintain your air conditioner’s performance. Dirty filters block airflow, causing your unit to work harder and consume more electricity. Fortunately, cleaning them is easy, just open the front panel, remove the filters, rinse them gently with water, and let them dry completely before placing them back. Doing this every 1 to 2 months can help your aircon stay efficient and extend its lifespan.

2. Schedule Regular Professional Maintenance

Besides basic cleaning, it’s important to have your air conditioner checked by a professional regularly. A yearly servicing can help detect early signs of problems such as aircon gas leak, unusual smells or water dripping, which could lead to higher aircon installation costs if left untreated. Regular maintenance also ensures your unit runs smoothly, saves energy, and keeps your indoor air fresh and healthy. We recommend servicing your home air conditioner at least once a year for optimal performance.

Conclusion

A properly installed and well-maintained air conditioner can last for many years. That’s why having a checklist for the pre-installation, installation, and post-installation stages is so important. It helps you avoid common problems, ensures your unit runs efficiently, and protects your investment in the long run. Therefore, before your next aircon installation, refer to this guide to ensure everything is done properly from the start.

About Jiaxing

Jiaxing is a trusted and high-quality air conditioning company in Singapore, providing affordable aircon services such as installation, maintenance, and emergency repairs. With experienced technicians and transparent pricing, we’re committed to helping homeowners and businesses keep their aircon systems in peak condition.

Ready to book your aircon installation service in Singapore? Contact Jiaxing today for fast, professional support you can trust.