How Long Does a New AC Installation Take in Albuquerque?

How Long Does a New AC Installation Take?

One of the most common questions we get at MGP Mechanical is how long the installation process will take. Nobody wants to be without cooling during an Albuquerque summer, so knowing what to expect helps you plan your day.

The short answer: most residential AC installations take between 4 and 8 hours. But several factors can make the job shorter or longer.

A Straightforward Replacement

If we're replacing your existing air conditioner with a similar-sized unit and your ductwork and electrical are already in good shape, the installation typically takes 4 to 6 hours. This is the most common scenario we see. We remove the old outdoor condenser and indoor evaporator coil, install the new equipment, connect the refrigerant lines, run a vacuum on the system, charge it with refrigerant, and test everything to make sure it's running properly.

What Can Add Time

Switching from a swamp cooler to refrigerated air. This is one of the most popular upgrades in Albuquerque, but it's also more involved. We need to install new ductwork (or modify existing ducts), run electrical for the condenser, and sometimes upgrade the electrical panel. This type of conversion typically takes a full day or sometimes two days depending on the complexity.

Ductwork modifications. If your existing ducts are undersized, damaged, or poorly routed, we may need to modify or replace sections to ensure your new system performs at its best. Adding or rerouting ductwork adds time but makes a huge difference in comfort.

Electrical upgrades. Some older homes don't have the electrical capacity to support a modern AC system. If we need to install a new breaker or run a dedicated circuit, that adds a couple of hours.

Equipment location challenges. Tight crawl spaces, difficult rooftop access, or equipment that needs to be placed in a non-standard location can add time to the installation.

What to Expect on Installation Day

Our team will arrive with all the equipment and materials needed to complete your installation. We protect your floors and work areas, and we clean up thoroughly when we're done. Before we leave, we'll walk you through your new system, show you how to operate it, and make sure you're comfortable with everything.

We also handle all the permit and inspection requirements. In Albuquerque, AC installations require a permit and inspection by the city. We take care of the paperwork so you don't have to.

Choosing the Right Size System

Before installation day, we perform a Manual J load calculation to determine the right size AC for your home. An oversized system short-cycles and wastes energy. An undersized system runs constantly and never gets your home comfortable. Getting the size right is one of the most important parts of the process.

Factors that affect sizing include your home's square footage, insulation levels, window count and orientation, ceiling height, and how much direct sun exposure your home gets. Albuquerque's intense afternoon sun on west-facing walls is something we always account for.

Schedule Your Free Estimate

If you're thinking about a new AC installation, give us a call at (505) 878-5788. We'll come out, assess your home, explain your options, and give you a free estimate. We carry Carrier and York systems and can help you find the right fit for your home and budget — including available rebates and financing options.