What should you verify before, during, and after an AC installation in Florida?
A proper AC installation involves more than swapping equipment. This checklist covers what Florida homeowners should confirm — from Manual J sizing to final inspection — to make sure the job is done right.
An AC installation is one of the largest investments a Florida homeowner makes. Getting it right means verifying the right things at the right time: before signing (sizing basis, permit scope, equipment match), during installation (duct condition, electrical safety, condensate management), and after installation (inspection result, warranty registration, closeout documentation). This checklist covers what to look for at each stage — whether you're working with NewHVACDeals or another contractor.
Before signing: what to verify.
1. Manual J sizing: ask to see the load calculation. If the contractor can't produce one, the system size is a guess. 2. AHRI match: the indoor and outdoor units should be a certified match — ask for the AHRI certificate number. 3. Permit scope: who pulls the permit, which jurisdiction, what inspection path applies. 4. Written warranty terms: what does the paper say about parts, labor, and registration requirements. 5. Scope inclusions: is duct assessment, electrical verification, condensate safety, and equipment pad included or extra. 6. Contractor license: verify the license number at myfloridalicense.com — match the license to the contractor signing the permit.
During installation: what to watch for.
1. Duct condition: if ductwork is accessible, ask whether it was inspected. Deteriorated, undersized, or leaky ducts defeat a new system. 2. Electrical verification: the disconnect, breaker, and wiring should be checked — not assumed adequate. 3. Condensate drainage: primary and secondary drain lines, float switch, and drain pan should be verified. 4. Equipment placement: outdoor unit should have proper clearance, be level on an approved pad, and meet any HOA or architectural requirements. 5. Refrigerant handling: the technician should follow EPA Section 608 procedures — recovery of old refrigerant, proper evacuation, and correct charge for the new system.
After installation: what to confirm.
1. Final inspection: the permit must pass final inspection. Don't consider the job complete until the inspection result is in hand. 2. Warranty registration: manufacturer warranty often requires registration within 60-90 days. Confirm it was submitted. 3. Closeout documentation: you should receive the permit record, inspection result, AHRI certificate, equipment manuals, and warranty confirmation. 4. System performance: after a few days of operation, verify that all rooms are comfortable, humidity is controlled, and there are no unusual sounds. 5. Follow-up contact: know who to call if something isn't right — the contractor's contact information should be in the closeout packet.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need to be home during AC installation?
- You don't need to watch every minute, but being available to answer questions and verify access is helpful. For NewHVACDeals installations, the crew communicates progress and any findings that affect scope.
- How long does AC installation take?
- A standard changeout takes one day. Scope additions — duct replacement, electrical upgrades, equipment relocation — can extend to two days. The intake review confirms the timeline.
- What should be in my closeout packet?
- Permit record, final inspection result, AHRI certificate, equipment manuals, warranty registration confirmation, and contractor contact information. If any of these are missing, ask for them.
Sources checked
Technical standards and program rules change. These references were checked while preparing this guide, and the final equipment recommendation still depends on saved intake and field verification.
Other Florida HVAC guides
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AC Sizing for Florida Homes
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How ductwork condition affects comfort, humidity control, static pressure, and install-day scope before a Florida AC replacement.
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Hurricane-Ready HVAC Planning in Florida
What homeowners should know about condenser elevation, tie-downs, drainage, surge protection, and coastal exposure.
CAC1822797 · CFC050548 · DBPR Active · Fully insured
Written by a Florida State Certified Class A Air Conditioning Contractor and Plumbing Contractor. Verify on myfloridalicense.com.