Concealed Duct Air Conditioner Installation Service in Nairobi: How It’s Done
Service Overview
- Installation Type: Concealed ducted split air conditioning systems
- Service Area: Nairobi and surrounding areas
- Installation Duration: 6-10 hours for standard installations
- Typical Cost Range: KES 25,000 – 60,000 (labor only, varies significantly by complexity)
- Best For: Whole-home cooling, multi-room offices, luxury apartments, and villas
- Cooling Capacity: Units typically range from 24,000 to 60,000 BTU
- Warranty: Most installations include 1-year workmanship guarantee
Concealed duct air conditioning systems represent the premium choice for whole-space cooling in Nairobi’s upscale residential and commercial properties. These sophisticated systems hide all indoor components above ceilings or in service spaces, delivering conditioned air through discreet grilles and vents. The result is powerful, uniform cooling without visible equipment compromising interior aesthetics.
Pre-Installation Assessment
The installation process begins with detailed architectural planning. HVAC engineers conduct comprehensive assessments of the building layout, measuring each room’s dimensions and calculating precise cooling loads. They evaluate ceiling void spaces or service areas where the concealed indoor unit and ductwork will be installed, ensuring adequate clearance for equipment and maintenance access. This assessment includes analyzing ceiling heights, structural supports, and existing services like electrical conduits and plumbing.
Technicians design the duct layout, determining optimal air distribution to achieve uniform cooling across all zones. They calculate required duct sizes based on airflow requirements, pressure drops, and velocity constraints. For Nairobi’s multi-story properties, the team plans vertical duct runs and considers acoustic treatments to minimize noise transmission between floors.
The assessment includes evaluating electrical capacity, as concealed duct systems often require substantial power supply. Engineers verify the main panel can accommodate the additional load and plan dedicated circuit installations. They also coordinate with architects or interior designers to position air grilles and return air vents in aesthetically pleasing locations that complement the space’s design.
Preparation and Structural Work
Preparation involves significant coordination with construction or renovation teams. If installing in existing buildings, technicians must access ceiling spaces, which may require removing ceiling panels or creating access hatches. They mark locations for the concealed indoor unit, typically positioned centrally to minimize duct runs, and prepare mounting supports capable of handling the unit’s weight, often 50 to 100 kilograms depending on capacity.
The team fabricates or prepares ductwork components, including main ducts, branch ducts, and individual room supply ducts. In Nairobi installations, galvanized steel or flexible insulated ducting is commonly used, depending on space constraints and budget considerations. All ductwork is insulated to prevent condensation and improve energy efficiency.
Technicians prepare wall and ceiling penetrations for refrigerant lines, electrical cables, condensate drainage, and duct passages. They install support hangers throughout ceiling spaces to properly suspend ductwork, ensuring ducts maintain appropriate slopes for drainage and remain securely fastened during operation.
Core Installation Process
Installation begins with positioning the concealed indoor unit on its prepared mounting frame within the ceiling space. Technicians ensure the unit is perfectly level and securely fastened to structural supports. They verify adequate clearances for filter access and maintenance.
The ductwork installation follows, connecting the main supply duct to the indoor unit’s discharge plenum. Branch ducts are installed extending to each room or zone, with volume control dampers installed where needed for zoning control. Technicians seal all duct joints with mastic or approved tape to prevent air leakage, which can significantly reduce system efficiency.
Supply air grilles are installed in ceilings or high walls throughout the space, positioned to provide optimal air distribution without creating uncomfortable drafts. Return air grilles are installed in strategic locations, often centrally located in hallways or living areas. The team ensures proper sizing and placement of both supply and return grilles to maintain balanced airflow and system efficiency.
Refrigerant lines are routed from the concealed indoor unit through ceiling spaces to the outdoor condenser unit, following the planned path and maintaining proper insulation. Electrical wiring connects both units through conduits, meeting Kenyan electrical codes. The condensate drainage system is installed with proper gradient, typically connecting to building drainage systems or running to external discharge points.
The outdoor condensing unit is installed on prepared ground pads, roof frames, or wall brackets, depending on the specific site requirements. Technicians ensure secure mounting, weather protection, and adequate clearances for airflow and maintenance.
Testing and Commissioning
After installation, the system undergoes rigorous testing. Technicians perform vacuum evacuation of refrigerant lines and charge the system with precise refrigerant quantities. They conduct air balancing procedures, measuring airflow at each supply grille and adjusting dampers to achieve design specifications for each room.
Comprehensive testing includes verifying temperature differentials across the system, checking static pressures in ductwork, and monitoring refrigerant pressures and temperatures. The team tests all zones independently, ensuring thermostats control their designated areas correctly. They check for air leaks in the duct system and seal any discovered deficiencies.
The installation team provides detailed operation training, explaining thermostat programming, zone control features, and filter maintenance procedures. They supply comprehensive documentation including system schematics, warranty information, and maintenance schedules. Professional concealed duct air conditioning installation transforms your Nairobi property into a haven of discreet, powerful comfort.
