Even a high-quality split-system air conditioner can perform poorly if it’s installed with basic errors. In Anaheim’s hot season, the most frequent problems come from three areas: condensate drainage, refrigerant line (route) installation, and vacuuming (evacuation). Drain line mistakes often show up first. A missing or incorrect slope, long horizontal runs, poor support, or an unprotected termination can lead to water backing up, musty odors, ceiling stains, or algae growth. The drain should have a consistent downward pitch, be securely strapped, and be routed to an approved discharge point. If a condensate pump is used, it must be sized correctly and include a safety shutoff to prevent overflow. Line set issues can quietly reduce efficiency for years. Common errors include sharp bends that kink copper, excessive length, missing insulation on the suction line, or routing that exposes tubing to vibration and rubbing. Poor flares, incorrect torque, or contaminated joints are a major source of slow refrigerant leaks. The line set should be properly supported, protected where it passes through walls, insulated end-to-end, and sized to the manufacturer’s specifications. Finally, skipping proper vacuuming is one of the costliest mistakes. Evacuation removes air and moisture that can create acids, ice restrictions, and compressor damage. A deep vacuum should be pulled with a quality pump, verified with a micron gauge, and tested for stability before releasing refrigerant. Done right, your system runs quieter, cools faster, and lasts longer.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
