What Impacts Air Conditioning Installation Time?

Updated onMay 22, 2025

Air conditioning units can take anywhere from one hour to three days to be installed, leaving many people wondering what impacts their installation time. Many factors play a role, including the type of air conditioning unit you choose, its location in your home, and the time of year you have your unit installed. Understanding these factors will help you better understand your installation time. Today, we outline all the factors that impact air conditioning installation time, so you know how long yours will take. 

The Type of Air Conditioning Unit 

One of the biggest factors determining how long it takes to have your air conditioning unit installed is the type of unit you choose. Simpler units, or those being placed in just one room, will be quicker to install, while those that are mounted to roofs or external walls will take longer. 

Ducted Air Conditioning Unit

A ducted air conditioning unit is the most complex to install and can take a few days. The ducted system will be installed over one to three days, where the outdoor unit will be installed, the indoor unit, electrical connections, and your thermostat will be set up. The number of rooms in which you have ducted air conditioning installed will increase the installation time. If you have a large home with ducted air conditioning in every room, it will take a few days for the entire system to be installed. 

Split System Air Conditioning Unit

Split air conditioning units can take between four and eight hours to install. This time accounts for your indoor and outdoor units being mounted, the refrigerant lines connected, and electrical components set up. Your installation might take longer if the unit is placed in a tricky location or multiple split systems are being installed. If you have multiple split systems installed, several outdoor units will need to be installed, which might take place over two days, depending on your technicians’ availability. 

Window Air Conditioning Unit 

Window air conditioning units are usually the quickest to install, taking one to two hours. If your window air conditioner doesn’t require additional power or wiring, install the unit yourself. You might find it takes longer than one to two hours if you are installing it yourself, especially if you have never installed a unit before, but it will save you on installation costs. The lack of professional installation makes window air conditioning units a good choice for anyone on a tighter budget. 

The Time of Year Your Air Conditioning Unit is Installed 

You also need to consider the time of year when the unit is being installed. The demand for air conditioning units increases in the summer, meaning you might need to wait for a technician to be available. As the temperature increases, installing the outdoor units of air conditioners can take longer, as your technician will need regular breaks to avoid overheating or burning. 

Your Home Layout

Your home’s layout also impacts installation time. Solid brick internal walls can add to the installation time and any insulation and building frames that must be considered. If there is thick loft insulation or solid brick walls, it will take your technician longer to install your air conditioning unit. 

The Location of Your Air Conditioning Unit 

Where your unit is installed also impacts how long it takes to be installed. If your air conditioning unit is tricky to access, it will take longer to install. If ladders or scaffolding are required, time and cost will be added to your installation. Consider where your unit will be installed and if it is in an accessible place. Not only does having your unit installed in an accessible place speed up installation time, but it also makes it easier when your unit needs maintenance or cleaning. 

If Additional Electrical Work is Needed 

Finally, you need to consider whether additional electrical work is required. Air conditioning units are powerful and will need more power than your usual power outlets can provide. Should an electrician need to attend your home to complete additional electrical work, your installation will take longer and cost more. When purchasing your air conditioning unit, you will be told if additional electrical work will be required. 

Find Your  Air Conditioning Installer Today 

An air conditioning unit can take time to install, but expert installers, like those at Sun City Air will ensure your unit is installed quickly and safely. Sun City Air have years of experience and are an excellent air conditioning installation company in Brisbane who can help cool your home.