The rise of DIY culture, due to YouTube tutorials and weekend project trends, has made homeowners confident in household upgrades. There’s nothing wrong with that. As people go for many DIY tasks, like painting walls, assembling furniture, etc. This approach saves money, and a sense of accomplishment. Some even go for AC installation.
But not all home improvements belong in the DIY category. When it comes to electrical wiring, refrigerant gases, and compliance certifications, the risks multiply quickly. One misstep can lead to damage, safety hazards, especially with HVAC systems.
That’s why AC installation should only be left to professionals. Installing a unit without proper training could cost you more through repairs, inefficiency, or even legal trouble. If you’re considering a new unit, it’s crucial to ask yourself: is DIY really worth the risk? Or is it time to call a qualified air conditioning installation expert?
Why Homeowners Consider DIY AC Installation
With labour costs and online content more accessible, many homeowners like to do thier AC work on their own. DIY forums and video tutorials often make AC installation seem simple. The idea of saving dollars can be convincing, especially during peak summer when professionals are busy.
However, these tutorials don’t often discuss technical and legal complexity factors. From refrigerant handling to pressure testing and safe electrical connections, only a professional air conditioning installer can manage the work. So, skipping professional help might save you money, but it can cost far more in repairs.
The Legal and Licensing Issues
In Australia, installing an air conditioning unit requires a licensed technician with ARCtick approval, as per the Australian Refrigeration Council. Handling refrigerant gases without this certification is illegal under the Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management Act 1989. It can result in fines exceeding $60,000 for individuals.
DIY AC installation also puts homeowners at risk of breaching building regulations. For instance, in South Australia, work involving electrical or refrigerant systems must be done by a licensed air conditioning installer. That installer should be registered with the Office of Consumer and Business Services (CBS). Non-compliant installs may invalidate your home insurance during damage.
Technical Risks You Can’t Ignore
Incorrect AC installation can lead to major technical faults. For example, installing an less size unit will force it to run continuously, increasing electricity consumption. Similarly, large size units cycle on/off too often, causing poor humidity control and wear on compressors.
Placement matters too. Outdoor condenser units must have at least 300 mm clearance on all sides, and should be put on vibration-absorbing brackets or concrete pads. Indoor units must not be mounted directly above electrical appliances or near heat sources. This can affect temperature readings and efficiency.
Finally, refrigerant pipework must follow exact manufacturer specs, typically 3–15 m in length with a maximum height difference of 5 m. That’s why, you should only hire professional air conditioning installer. Also, you should make sure that installing an air conditioning unit meets ARCtick and Australian Standard AS/NZS 3000:2018.
Safety Hazards and Long-Term Costs
Even a small mistake during AC installation can lead to safety risks and long-term financial damage. Without proper tools, training, or licensing, installing an air conditioning unit becomes more than just a DIY gamble. Below is a breakdown of what can go wrong, and what it might cost.
| Risk | What Can Go Wrong | Estimated Cost/Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical Hazards | Incorrect wiring may lead to short circuits or fire. | $500–$2,500+ in damage or safety violations. |
| Refrigerant Leaks | Unlicensed handling of R32/R410A is illegal and dangerous. | Legal penalties up to $66,600 (individuals). |
| Improper Drainage | Water leakage into walls or ceiling cavities. | $300–$3,000 in water damage repairs. |
| Incorrect Sizing | Undersized or oversized unit strains performance. | 20–30% higher energy bills; less lifespan. |
| Invalid Warranty | Manufacturer warranty voided without licensed air conditioning installer. | Full unit replacement ($2,000–$6,000). |
Insurance and Warranty Problems
Most Australian home insurance policies, including AAMI, Allianz, and NRMA, clearly exclude coverage for damage by non-licensed AC installation. If a fire or water leak results from electrical or refrigerant work, they can deny your claims. In South Australia, work involving refrigerants legally requires an ARCtick license.
Major brands like Daikin, Mitsubishi Electric, and Panasonic clearly state in their Australian warranties that professional installation is required. For example, Daikin’s 5-year parts and labour warranty becomes void if you don’t choose a licensed contractor. The same applies to Fujitsu General and ActronAir systems.
When it comes to split system air conditioning installation, units must also comply with AS/NZS 3000 (Wiring Rules) and AS/NZS 5149 standards. If you don’t go for the certified air conditioning installer, even minor issues like incorrect piping insulation or cable connections can breach regulations.
Conclusion
Cutting corners on AC installation might save a few dollars upfront, but the risks far outweigh the short-term savings. DIY attempts often lead to issues that require professional correction, doubling your expenses in the long run.
Hiring a licensed air conditioning installer ensures your system is sized correctly, safely connected, and compliant with Australian standards. At the end, it’s all about protecting your investment, your comfort, and your peace of mind.
Ready to upgrade your comfort the right way? Contact All Areas Electrical SA today for professional AC installation you can trust. Our experienced air conditioning installer team gets it right the first time. Explore our full range of electrical and cooling services to see how we can help power your home, inside and out.
FAQs
Do I really need a licensed professional for my AC installation?
Yes, a licensed technician ensures your AC installation meets safety, legal, and warranty standards—especially when dealing with refrigerants and wiring.
2. How do I choose the right air conditioning installer?
Look for an experienced air conditioning installer who is ARCtick certified, offers clear quotes, and backs their work with warranty and insurance.
3. What are the risks of installing an air conditioning unit myself?
DIY installing an air conditioning unit can lead to electrical hazards, refrigerant leaks, voided warranties, and legal penalties in Australia.
4. Is professional AC installation worth the cost?
Absolutely. Proper AC installation ensures efficient cooling, lower energy bills, and long-term peace of mind—saving you money over time.