How Long Does it Take to Replace the Outside AC Unit

On average, the time it takes to replace an outdoor unit on a residential air conditioning system (assuming central ducted system) can take anywhere from 4 to 8 hours.

Here’s are the basic steps involved in replacing an outdoor unit:

Preparation and Assessment: (30 minutes – 1 hour) Assessing the system, determining the replacement unit, and gathering tools and equipment. This step is relatively quick but important for ensuring a smooth process.
Disconnection and Removal: (1 – 2 hours) Disconnecting the old outdoor unit from electrical and refrigerant connections, and physically removing it. This step can take some time, especially if there are any complications or tight spaces.
Installation of New Unit: (1.5 – 3 hours) Positioning the new outdoor unit and connecting it to refrigerant lines, electrical wiring, and other components. This step requires careful work and can take a fair amount of time.
Refrigerant Charge: (1 – 1.5 hours) Evacuating and recharging the refrigerant lines with the right amount of refrigerant. This step requires attention to detail since adding refrigerant is a precise procedure.
Electrical Connections: (1 – 1.5 hours) Making the electrical connections between the new outdoor unit and the indoor components. This step involves wiring and verifying proper connections.
Testing and Commissioning: (30 minutes – 1 hour) Testing the system for proper functioning, checking for leaks, and verifying cooling performance. This is a critical step that shouldn’t be rushed.
Finishing Touches: (15 – 30 minutes) Reattaching covers, panels, and other protective elements to complete the installation.

Unexpected complications, such as difficulty accessing the installation area, or additional repairs needed could extend the time required for the replacement. Also, local regulations, permitting requirements, and the availability of replacement parts can affect the timeline.

To get an accurate estimate for your job, contact a licensed HVAC professional who can assess your system and provide a more precise timeline based on the factors mentioned above.

Under what circumstances would I only replace the outdoor unit and not the indoor air handler?

There are many situations where you may only need to replace the outdoor unit of your air conditioning system and not the indoor unit (air handler). This is known as a “partial system replacement” or “condenser-only replacement.” Here are some scenarios where this makes sense:

Outdoor Unit Failure: If the outdoor unit itself has failed or is not functioning properly, and the indoor air handler is still in good condition, you might consider replacing only the outdoor unit. This can be a cost-effective option if the indoor unit is relatively new and doesn’t require replacement.
Budget Constraints: If you’re at the point of replacing your AC system, and your indoor air handler is still in good working condition, replacing only the outdoor unit can be a more budget-friendly option. The outdoor unit endures the biggest burden of the system, so it’s an “almost” replacement / upgrade to your system by just replacing the outdoor unit.
Energy Efficiency Upgrade: If your goal is to improve energy efficiency and your indoor air handler is already energy-efficient and in good shape, upgrading to a newer, more efficient outdoor unit can still provide significant energy savings without replacing the indoor unit.

Air conditioning systems are designed to work as matched pairs, with both the outdoor and indoor units specifically engineered to complement each other’s performance. The outdoor unit must be compatible with the indoor unit. While replacing only the outdoor unit can satisfy the above needs, always be sure to consult with a licensed HVAC professional before making your final replacement decision.