AI Summary
Simple heat pump replacements take 6-10 hours (one day). Installations with electrical work take 1-2 days. Complex installations with ductwork modifications take 2-3 days. Multi-day installations don't mean continuous work—crews may work partial days or split work across multiple visits. Weather, permitting, and unexpected issues can extend timeframes.
How Long Should I Expect Installation to Take?
Installation timeframes vary significantly based on complexity. This guide provides realistic expectations for different installation scenarios.
Simple Replacement (6-10 Hours)
What Qualifies as Simple
- Replacing existing heat pump or AC with similar capacity
- Existing electrical is adequate
- Ductwork is functional
- Refrigerant lines can be reused
- Easy access to equipment locations
- No structural modifications needed
Typical Timeline
Day 1 (6-10 hours):
- Remove old equipment (1-2 hours)
- Install new outdoor unit (1-2 hours)
- Install new indoor unit (2-3 hours)
- Connect refrigerant lines (1 hour)
- Electrical connections (1 hour)
- Startup and testing (1-2 hours)
Most simple replacements complete in one day with a two-person crew.
Standard Installation (1-2 Days)
What Qualifies as Standard
- New circuit installation required
- Line set replacement needed
- Basic ductwork modifications
- Thermostat upgrade with new wiring
- Moderate access challenges
Typical Timeline
Day 1 (6-8 hours):
- Electrical work (new circuit, disconnect)
- Remove old equipment
- Install new outdoor unit
- Begin indoor unit installation
Day 2 (4-6 hours):
- Complete indoor unit installation
- Install new line set
- Final electrical connections
- Thermostat installation
- Startup, testing, and verification
Why Multi-Day Doesn't Mean Continuous Work
Two-day installations often involve:
- Partial day work (4-6 hours per day)
- Waiting for concrete to cure (pad installation)
- Electrical inspection between days
- Material delivery between visits
Total work time may be 10-14 hours spread across 2 days.
Complex Installation (2-3 Days)
What Qualifies as Complex
- Significant ductwork modifications
- Panel upgrade required
- Equipment relocation
- Difficult access requiring special equipment
- Multiple system components
- Structural modifications needed
Typical Timeline
Day 1 (6-8 hours):
- Electrical panel upgrade
- New circuit installation
- Ductwork modifications begin
Day 2 (6-8 hours):
- Complete ductwork modifications
- Remove old equipment
- Install new outdoor unit
- Begin indoor unit installation
Day 3 (4-6 hours):
- Complete indoor unit installation
- Line set installation
- Final connections
- Comprehensive testing and verification
Factors That Extend Installation Time
Weather Conditions
Rain, extreme heat, or cold can slow outdoor work. Some tasks cannot be performed in certain weather conditions.
Impact: May add 1-2 days if weather delays outdoor work
Unexpected Issues
Hidden problems discovered during installation require additional work:
- Damaged ductwork not visible during quote
- Electrical problems requiring additional work
- Structural issues at mounting locations
- Asbestos or hazardous materials requiring special handling
Impact: Can add hours to days depending on severity
Permit Inspections
Required inspections may split work across multiple days:
- Electrical inspection before final connections
- Rough-in inspection before closing walls
- Final inspection after completion
Impact: Adds 1-3 days between work phases
Material Delays
Missing or incorrect parts require ordering and delivery:
- Wrong size line set
- Incorrect electrical components
- Damaged equipment requiring replacement
Impact: Can add 1-5 days for parts delivery
Installation Timeline by Complexity
- Simple replacement: 1 day (6-10 hours)
- With electrical work: 1-2 days (10-14 hours total)
- With duct modifications: 2 days (12-16 hours total)
- With panel upgrade: 2-3 days (14-18 hours total)
- Complete system overhaul: 3-5 days (20-30 hours total)
What to Expect Each Day
Crew Arrival
Crews typically arrive 7-9 AM. Confirm arrival time with contractor beforehand.
Work Hours
Most crews work 6-8 hour days. Longer days are possible but less common.
Breaks and Cleanup
Crews take lunch breaks and clean up work areas daily. Final cleanup occurs on last day.
System Availability
Expect no heating or cooling during installation. Plan accordingly for weather conditions.
Questions to Ask About Timeline
- How many days do you estimate for this installation?
- How many hours per day will the crew work?
- Will work be continuous or split across multiple visits?
- What could extend the timeline?
- When will the system be operational?
- What happens if weather delays work?
- Are inspections required between work phases?
Scheduling Considerations
Plan for Flexibility
Add 1-2 days buffer to estimated timeline for unexpected delays. Don't schedule important events immediately after planned completion.
Weather Backup
Have backup plans if weather delays outdoor work. Consider portable heating or cooling if needed.
Access Requirements
Ensure clear access to work areas. Move vehicles, pets, and valuables before crew arrives.
Home Occupancy
You don't need to be home continuously but should be available for questions and final walkthrough.
Check What Your Quote Says About Timeline
See whether your quotes specify installation duration.
Decode Your Quote →Red Flags in Timeline Estimates
- Contractor promises unrealistically short timeline
- No timeline estimate provided
- Vague "1-2 days" without scope clarification
- Contractor can't explain what work happens each day
- No discussion of potential delays
Why This Matters
Realistic timeline expectations help you plan accordingly and identify contractors who understand installation complexity. Unrealistically short estimates may indicate rushed work or incomplete scope understanding.
Ask contractors to explain their timeline estimate and what work occurs each day rather than accepting vague duration estimates.