Even a premium split-system air conditioner can underperform if the installation is done incorrectly. In Los Angeles, where long cooling seasons and heat waves push equipment hard, three mistakes show up again and again: condensate drainage errors, poor line set routing, and skipping proper vacuuming. 1) Drainage (condensate) mistakes. The indoor unit must drain water reliably. A drain hose without the right slope can trap water and cause dripping from the unit, moldy odors, and stained walls. Kinks, crushed tubing, or “uphill” sections create the same problem. Another frequent issue is no trap or improper connection to a plumbing drain, leading to sewer smells. The fix is simple in principle: continuous downward pitch, secure mounting, insulation where needed to prevent sweating, and a clear termination point that’s easy to inspect and flush. 2) Refrigerant line ( трасса ) routing mistakes. The copper line set should be sized correctly, kept as short as practical, and protected from UV, vibration, and physical damage. Tight bends can restrict refrigerant flow or crack copper over time. Poor insulation on the suction line leads to energy loss and condensation. Sloppy flare connections—dirty flare faces, incorrect torque, or reused fittings—are a top cause of slow leaks. Good practice includes clean cuts, proper deburring, nitrogen purging during brazing when applicable, and pressure testing before start-up. 3) Vacuuming (evacuation) mistakes. “Quick vacuum” is not a vacuum. Moisture and air left in the system can form acids, raise pressures, reduce capacity, and shorten compressor life. Proper evacuation uses a dedicated vacuum pump, large-diameter hoses, and a micron gauge, pulling down to an appropriate micron level and verifying a stable standing test. Skipping this step is one of the most expensive shortcuts. If your split-system is noisy, leaking, or cooling unevenly, these installation issues are often the root cause—especially in older LA homes with tricky routing and long runs.
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