Morning: Old Unit Comes Out
The crew removes the old air handler and outdoor unit. They cap refrigerant lines and disconnect electrical. This usually takes 60 to 90 minutes.
HVAC Setup Day Guide — Sacramento
Most Sacramento homeowners have never watched an HVAC crew work. Here is what the day looks like from arrival to final test.

A typical Fresh Air job in Sacramento takes about 6 to 8 hours from crew arrival to final test. The crew is usually two or three techs. We protect floors, stage gear in your driveway, and walk you through the new unit before we leave. We also schedule the permit inspection with Sacramento County so you stay covered.
The crew removes the old air handler and outdoor unit. They cap refrigerant lines and disconnect electrical. This usually takes 60 to 90 minutes.
The new air handler is set in place. Refrigerant lines are connected and the outdoor unit is mounted. Line sets, electrical, and drain lines all get tied in.
We pull vacuum on the refrigerant lines and charge the system. We test heat and cool modes. Then we walk you through the new thermostat and filter location.
Ask the tech to show you three things before they pack up. First, the final vacuum level after line evacuation. Second, the weight of coolant added to the system. Third, the measured temp split between your supply and return vents with the system running. These confirm a proper setup. If a tech will not show you these, the job may not be complete.
Fresh Air includes a walkthrough on every job. We pull all permits and set up the county check. The permit check is not a formality in Sacramento County. Inspectors look at lines, wiring, and duct seals. You or a rep must be on site. Fresh Air has held CSLB #945361 since 2009 and has done this 900+ times.
A full central system job runs about 6 to 8 hours. A mini-split single-zone can be done in 4 to 5 hours. Ductwork add-ons extend the time.
Yes, for the start and end at minimum. You should also be there for the permit inspection. Someone must be on site during the inspection window.
Most Fresh Air jobs run with two to three techs. Larger jobs with duct work may have four on site.
Clear a path to your air handler and leave 6 feet of space around the outdoor unit location. Move any breakables from near the air handler closet or attic access.
Call Fresh Air at (916) 416-8181 or use our contact page. We serve Sacramento, Elk Grove, Folsom, Roseville, and the greater Sacramento Valley. Free in-home estimate. Licensed CSLB #945361.