Air conditioning What should I ask before getting an air conditioner installed?
Ask who is doing the work and what licences they hold, how the size and position were chosen, what the quote covers, and what happens after handover.
The most useful questions are about who will do the work, how the system was chosen for your home, what the quote actually covers and what support you get afterwards. A good installer will answer all of them plainly and put the answers in writing.
Who will do the work, and are they licensed?
Installing an air conditioner involves two licensed trades. Handling refrigerant in Australia requires an Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) licence, and the electrical connection has to be done by a licensed electrician. Ask to see both licence numbers. Arlite’s public licences are Electrical Contractors Licence #89021 and ARC licence #L183741. Our article on how to check an electrician is licensed in Queensland shows how to confirm the electrical side.
How was the size chosen?
A bigger unit is not automatically better. The right size depends on the room or home, how it is used and how much sun it gets. Ask what the recommendation is based on. Our article on what size air conditioner you need explains the factors, and the one on split system versus ducted can help if you are still deciding on the type.
Where will the units go?
Ask where the indoor unit will sit and where the air will be directed, so it does not blow directly on where people sit or sleep. Ask where the outdoor unit will go and whether you or your neighbours will notice the noise, and how the water the system produces will be drained away. These choices affect comfort and how tidy the finished job looks.
Is my electrical supply suitable?
Ask whether your switchboard and existing wiring suit the new system. If any electrical work is needed beyond the connection itself, the quote should say so, and say who does it.
What is in the quote?
Ask for the make and model of each unit, the number of units, what installation work is included and what could cost extra. A quote that is specific is easier to compare with another one. The running costs article explains what affects the bill once the system is in.
How efficient is it?
Ask for the energy rating of the model. The Australian Government’s Energy Rating website explains the star rating label used on air conditioners.
What does the warranty cover, in writing?
Ask for the manufacturer’s warranty and the installer’s workmanship warranty in writing, and ask how a claim is made. Terms vary between products and installers, so read them before you sign.
What happens at handover and after?
Ask whether the system will be commissioned and tested, whether someone will show you how to use it, and what paperwork you will receive. Ask what maintenance, fault finding and cleaning support is available later. Arlite’s team offers maintenance, fault finding and deep cleaning for existing systems.
How to prepare before the installer visits
Note which rooms need cooling
Write down which rooms you want to cool or heat, and roughly when each one is used.
Photograph the spaces
Take photos of the rooms and the outside walls where you think units might go. Do not move anything electrical.
Check if you need permission
If you rent or live in a unit, ask your landlord, agent or body corporate before anything is agreed. Our article on renters and air conditioners in Queensland explains the basics.
Write down your questions
Use the questions on this page as a checklist and note the answers you are given, so you can compare more than one quote fairly.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, two licences are involved. Refrigerant work needs an ARC licence, and the electrical connection must be done by a licensed electrician. Some businesses hold both, so ask to see the licence numbers.
No. A unit that is too big for the space can be less comfortable and less efficient. Ask the installer what size they recommend and why.
Yes, if each one names the make, model, number of units and what is included. Ask each installer to fill in the gaps so you are comparing like with like.
If you own a freestanding house you usually decide for yourself, but renters and people in strata or body corporate properties generally need permission first. Ask your landlord, agent or body corporate.
Ask for the warranty details in writing, any paperwork for the electrical work, and a walk through of how to use the system.
Related services: Ducted Air Conditioning
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