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A dip in the pool or a swim in the sea, can help you to survive the summer season, but in the home, you’ll be thankful for a good air conditioning system.
We’re living in an age where people jump online and watch a video to do any fix-it jobs around the house.
While you may think it’s both cheap and satisfying to do any DIY yourself, when it comes to anything electrical, especially the installation or repair of an air-conditioning unit, you need to leave it to the fully trained experts.
The short answer
Yes, a qualified electrician or technician who specialises in air conditioning can install a split system. Because these units contain refrigerants, anyone working on them must hold an ARC Refrigeration Handling Licence. Using a builder or a non-specialist risks bad wiring and a poor installation.
- Ask whether your installer holds an ARC licence, which shows they can handle refrigerant gases safely.
- A specialist will recommend the right unit size and position based on your room, layout, orientation, insulation and windows.
Get professional service
You need to choose a qualified, licensed air-conditioning electrician or technician. A professional in this area will mean your unit is installed fast and efficiently.
Choosing a builder or someone who is not specialised could result in a multitude of problems including bad wiring and poor installation.
Air conditioners use refrigeration to chill indoor air and contain refrigerants which can release large amounts of fluorocarbons into the atmosphere.
For this reason, an electrician or technician specialising in the installation of air conditioning units must hold a licence certified by the Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC). It’s known as an ARC Refrigeration Handling Licence.
Air conditioners contain refrigerants that can release large amounts of dangerous fluorocarbons into the atmosphere. It’s a legal requirement for anyone working in air conditioning and refrigeration to hold an ARC Licence and undergo accredited training.
Installing an air conditioning unit
A qualified electrician or technician, experienced in air conditioning systems, will also have the knowledge to know where a split-system air conditioning unit should be placed to maximise durability and energy efficiency. It’s only natural you’ll want to get the most out of your new air conditioning investment, so it needs to be installed in an appropriate place.
The electrician can advise on the best size split-system unit for your requirements, and this will depend on your room, layout, orientation, roofing insulation and number of windows in the room. Hot air rises and cool air sinks to the bottom of each room, so having your air conditioner fitted in the right position will help to ensure air circulates evenly.
The outdoor unit should be mounted or placed on a concrete slab so that it has plenty of free space to allow for airflow. It needs to be installed in a place so that it’s easy to maintain should any issues arise.
Outdoor unit
Plan for the outdoor unit too. It should sit on a concrete slab or a mount with clear space around it for airflow, in a spot that is easy to reach for servicing.
ARC approved
If you’re thinking of installing a split-system air conditioning unit, make sure your electrician has the ARC tick of approval which means they are qualified to safely handle refrigerant gases.
PWA Electrical Services has highly experienced, certified electricians and have built our business from referrals with customers coming back time and time.
Our services are both affordable and reliable. We have exceptional reviews giving you peace of mind.
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About the author
Brad Wilson
Senior Electrician, PWA Electrical Services
Brad is a seasoned professional who specialises in complex switchboards, control circuitry, and electrical service and maintenance. Reliable and experienced, no job is too big or small for him.
