Clear working space around the indoor and outdoor units, open a path from the driveway to both, secure pets away from the work area, and make sure the crew can reach your electrical panel, thermostat, and attic or crawlspace access. Most AC installations take a single day when the site is ready.

Before Installation Day

  • Clear the outdoor unit area. Three feet of open space around the condenser pad. Trim shrubs, move planters, and clear anything stored against the wall.
  • Clear the indoor equipment space. Mechanical closets and garage corners collect storage. The crew needs room to remove the old air handler and set the new one.
  • Open the path. Equipment is heavy and bulky. Clear hallways, move furniture near the route, and roll up rugs at doorways.
  • Provide access to the electrical panel, thermostat location, and attic or crawlspace hatch.
  • Secure pets in a closed room or off site. Doors stay open during equipment moves, and the noise unsettles most animals.
  • Move fragile items off shelves and walls near the work zone — vibration travels.

What the Day Looks Like

Expect noise, foot traffic, and periods without power to the HVAC circuit. If ductwork or electrical modifications are part of the job, plan on longer. Your cooling will be off for most of the day, so on a hot Albuquerque afternoon it is worth planning to be elsewhere during peak heat.

Questions Worth Asking First

Confirm the load calculation was done rather than the new unit simply matching the old tonnage. Ask whether duct sealing is included — new equipment on leaky ducts underperforms from day one. Ask who pulls the permit. Ask what the warranty covers and what maintenance is required to keep it valid. Good answers to those four questions predict a good installation.

After the Crew Leaves

You should get a walkthrough of the new thermostat, filter location and size, warranty paperwork, and registration confirmation. Run the system through a full cycle before the technician goes.

Every installation carries our Home Comfort Guarantee, with financing available and Care Club maintenance to keep the warranty intact. Contact B. Carlson in Albuquerque or Santa Fe.