Package Unit Installation for Greater Houston Properties

Using Manual J methodology, we calculate the exact BTU cooling capacity and heating capacity your building requires. This calculation accounts for:

• Building Size — Total conditioned square footage
• Insulation Levels — Attic R-value, wall insulation, basement/crawl space conditions
• Windows — Quantity, type (single vs. double-pane), orientation (south/west facing = more solar heat gain)
• Climate Data — Houston’s design temperatures (summer design 95°F, winter design 32°F)
• Internal Heat Loads — People, appliances, lighting that generate heat
• Building Exposure — Shade trees, neighboring structures that block sun

The result is a precise ton rating (cooling capacity) and BTU input (heating capacity) your package unit needs:

• Undersized Package Unit — Too small to cool on hot days or heat on cold mornings. System runs continuously without reaching setpoint, wasting energy and wearing out prematurely.
• Oversized Package Unit — Cools or heats too quickly, cycling on and off frequently (short-cycling), which wastes energy and fails to dehumidify properly. Houston’s humidity is a concern—oversized cooling cycles off before removing moisture, leaving damp air.
• Right-Sized Package Unit — Runs efficiently, reaching setpoint smoothly, dehumidifying effectively, and lasting 12–15 years without stress.

We present your calculated load and recommended package unit tonnage so you understand the sizing rationale before equipment selection.

We present package unit options at different efficiency levels, explaining SEER (cooling efficiency) and AFUE or HSPF ratings (heating efficiency). We discuss heating options:

• Electric Heating — Resistive heating elements warm air directly. Instant response, simple controls. Higher operating costs but zero maintenance beyond annual checks.
• Gas Heating — A burner inside the package cabinet ignites gas to heat air. Lower operating cost than electric heating. Requires gas supply line and venting but efficient for Houston’s mild winters.
• Heat Pump Heating — The refrigerant cycle reverses to extract heat from outdoor air (like an AC in reverse). Most efficient heating option for moderate climates like Houston. Works reliably down to 35–40°F before electric backup is needed.

We calculate payback periods for each heating option using your building’s typical utility usage, so you understand the financial impact of choosing higher efficiency or different heating types.

We also discuss thermostat options: basic non-programmable (simple), programmable (set different temperatures for different times/days), or smart (app control, learning features, integration with other smart systems). We explain financing through Wisetack, answering questions about monthly payments and interest rates. Many homeowners pair their installation with one of our maintenance plans to protect their investment long-term. Once you approve equipment, heating option, and financing, we order the system and schedule installation.

Before installation day, we prepare your installation location. For rooftop placement:

• We install structural support pads and curbs to properly distribute the package unit’s weight across the roof, preventing concentrated load damage
• We ensure proper vibration isolation—using pads that reduce compressor noise transmission to building structure
• We verify roof flashing and weatherproofing where ductwork and electrical service penetrate the roof
• We plan ductwork routing and electrical cable runs to minimize roof penetrations

For ground-level placement:

• We install a concrete pad with proper slope for drainage
• We set vibration isolation pads
• We verify electrical service proximity

We evaluate your existing ductwork and make necessary upgrades:

• Leak Sealing — We identify leaks at connections and joints and seal them with mastic and metallic tape to prevent cooled or heated air from escaping into walls or attics
• Duct Sizing Verification — We check that ducts are sized appropriately for the new package unit’s airflow. Undersized ducts restrict air and reduce efficiency; we may upgrade sections if necessary
• Blockage Removal — We clear any obstructions (dust, debris, nests) that restrict airflow
• Duct Insulation — We ensure return ducts in cold spaces (attics, basements) are properly insulated to prevent condensation and temperature loss

Proper ductwork is essential—a new, efficient package unit is only as good as the ducts delivering its air. Skipping ductwork work is a common installation mistake that undermines efficiency for the system’s entire life. Many homeowners also benefit from our duct cleaning and sealing services during the installation process to maximize system performance.

We install the package unit in the prepared location (rooftop, ground pad, or mechanical room):

• We secure the unit to the support pad or base with vibration isolation mounts to minimize noise transmission
• We connect all supply and return ductwork to the unit’s air openings with properly sealed connections
• We run electrical service from your building’s panel to the package unit disconnect switch (required by code for safety)
• We connect all control wiring from your thermostat to the package unit control board
• For gas heating units, we connect the gas line with proper sizing and pressure regulators
• For units with venting requirements, we connect exhaust vent piping and verify it routes safely outside

All electrical work follows local electrical codes. All gas connections are pressure-tested. All connections are documented and labeled.

Once physically installed, we charge the refrigerant to exact specifications. Wrong refrigerant charge (too much or too little) causes poor performance and system stress. We use superheat and subcooling measurements (not guesswork) and document the charge for future service reference.

We run the complete cooling cycle: thermostat calls for cooling, the compressor starts, the blower circulates air, and cooled air flows through ducts. We measure outlet temperature and verify the system reaches setpoint. We test heating mode (for electric, gas, or heat pump units), verifying that the heating elements or burner operate correctly. We test both low and high fan speeds to ensure proper operation.

With the system running, we balance airflow through all ducts. We check that every room with supply vents is receiving cooled or heated air. If airflow is uneven (some rooms get cold/warm air, others don’t), we adjust dampers or add vents to equalize distribution.

We verify that your thermostat is reading room temperature accurately and responding correctly to setpoint changes. We program your thermostat with your preferred setpoint, fan settings (auto or continuous), and any scheduling features you want.

Before we leave, we explain how your new package unit operates: thermostat adjustment, seasonal transitions (when to switch from cooling to heating), maintenance requirements (filter changes, when to schedule annual tune-ups), and what warranty coverage includes. We provide all documentation—equipment spec sheets, installation records, warranty information, and thermostat instructions.

We discuss your maintenance plan options to keep your new system running efficiently and catch problems early. We leave you with confidence that your installation is complete, safe, and ready for years of reliable comfort.