Installing rooftop HVAC units can be tricky, and traditional installation methods are often time-consuming and costly–especially when access is limited. Ground cranes frequently require extensive setup, road closures, and a significant amount of crew support that quickly add up in cost.

That’s where helicopters come in, offering a faster, more flexible alternative that streamlines the entire process. Helicopter lifts for rooftop HVAC unit installations are not only quicker, but are more cost-effective in many cases. With the ability to bypass ground obstacles and complicated logistics, helicopters can deliver and position equipment in a fraction of the time.

This detailed guide to helicopter-assisted HVAC placement will reveal the benefits of aerial cranes, important installation timelines, and cost considerations for companies looking to complete projects on schedule and within budget.

Benefits of Using Helicopters for HVAC Installation

Hiring a heavy-lift helicopter service for rooftop HVAC installation can be a game-changer. Here are a few of the many benefits of aerial cranes:

• More Efficient Preliminary Assessments: Helicopters enable contractors to perform more efficient hazard assessments prior to starting an HVAC installation project. These critical evaluations can help companies spot issues that could result in hefty expenses down the line. Helicopter crews can also take photographs and videos that allow you to better coordinate logistics and monitor installation progress.
  
  
• Increased Accessibility: Helicopters can easily deliver HVAC units to rooftops that traditional ground cranes cannot access. They are ideal for operating in dense urban areas with limited space, and may be the only practical solution for navigating tall buildings.
  
  
• Improved Mobility and Precision: While standard cranes have limited mobility and are challenging to maneuver, helicopters are capable of spinning 360 degrees and hovering over tall buildings. Large side windows and aerial views allow pilots to place heavy loads and equipment with a high level of precision.
  
  
• Enhanced Safety: Increased precision means less potential for harm to nearby properties and crews, and the process of lifting heavy units onto rooftops via helicopter can be much safer than other methods–particularly in areas with tight spaces or complex logistics.

Helicopter pilots have extensive training, and those trained in transporting and placing heavy loads know how to mitigate the associated risks. Safety coordinators are also essential for ensuring proper communication between crew members and communicating the locations of all danger zones to personnel. 

• Quicker Installation: Helicopters can bypass traffic, crowded construction zones, and other ground obstacles that make traditional methods take longer. They can set multiple rooftop HVAC units in a matter of hours, reducing downtime and shortening project timelines. In many cases, rooftop installation and removal jobs may be completed in 1-2 hours using a helicopter crane.
  
  
• Optimized Cost Performance: Because helicopters cut down on installation time and eliminate the need for renting traditional cranes and other equipment over an extended period, contractors can save both time and money.
• Reduced Site Disruption: While cranes require significant space for setup and operation, helicopters can take off from a small area without needing to block off sidewalks and streets. Plus, helicopters can operate without disturbing the land below.
  
  
• Minimized Wear and Tear: Because helicopters don’t require placing heavy lifting gear on the building itself, there is far less potential for damage to the building and its structures.

Hiring an experienced heavy-lift helicopter crew for rooftop HVAC installation is a smart way to speed up the process, reduce costs, and avoid headaches—especially in busy urban environments with limited accessibility.

Planning for Helicopter-Assisted HVAC Installations

Using a heavy-lift helicopter for rooftop HVAC unit installation is a highly efficient process, though it does require careful planning, complex coordination, and high levels of precision. Here are several aspects of the installation process you’ll need to consider before starting a new installation project.

Preparation

A lot of behind-the-scenes work is required before the helicopter arrives to begin the installation. Be sure to incorporate these three steps into your project timeline:

• Preliminary Site Assessment: Engineers, crane operators, safety coordinators, and the heavy-lift helicopter team will need to inspect the building’s rooftop and structure to evaluate any potential hazards and ensure it is capable of supporting the HVAC unit. These units are heavy and can weigh anywhere from 500 to 10,000 pounds or more, depending on the unit’s manufacturer, model, and specific features.

Site assessment teams will need to check weight limits and access points to ensure the safety of all personnel, as well as individuals on the ground. They will also need to secure any necessary permits prior to the lift.

• Scheduling and Logistics: While helicopters are capable of performing in many different types of weather, high winds or poor visibility can impact the operation. Consider scheduling the installation day around favorable weather conditions.
  
  You’ll also need to adhere to air traffic regulations and coordinate with air traffic control to ensure your helicopter has a clear and safe flight path and an optimal landing zone.
  
  
• HVAC Unit Preparation: Your heavy-lift helicopter team will work with you to devise the best suspension system for your project’s needs and ready your HVAC unit for transport. Ensuring that the HVAC is properly secured may involve single-point or multi-point suspension systems, cargo hooks, and hoist systems.
  
  

Installation Timeline

On the day of the rooftop installation, several things will need to occur to ensure a successful lift:

• Crew and Equipment Arrival: An hour or two before the lift, your heavy-lift helicopter crew will arrive at the designated site.
  
  
• Pre-Flight Check: Arriving early will allow your aerial crew and pilots to conduct a pre-flight check and inspect critical components, including the aircraft’s engine, rotor blades, fuel levels, navigation systems, and safety equipment.
  
  
• Rigging: Your ground crew will ensure the HVAC unit is securely rigged to the helicopter’s hoist. Safety is paramount no matter the type of heavy-lift project, so rest assured that your hired helicopter construction company will make any necessary adjustments and address all safety concerns prior to the lift.
  
  
• Helicopter Transport: Once the HVAC unit is properly attached, the helicopter will lift off. While the flight itself is typically short, it requires a skilled and experienced pilot capable of safely transporting the unit to the designated rooftop.
  
  
• Rooftop Placement: The pilot will carefully lower the HVAC unit onto the roof while the ground crew assists in guiding the load.
  
  
• Unloading and Positioning: Once the unit is on the roof, your hired crews will spend up to an hour precisely positioning and installing the unit.

Post-Installation Steps

While the HVAC unit may be placed, the work isn’t done. Any rigging will be removed from the helicopter, and the helicopter crew will depart.

Technicians will then assess the unit to ensure it’s connected to the proper power sources and functioning correctly. They may need to calibrate the system by fine-tuning its settings and checking airflow.

Ground crews will dismantle any temporary structures, clean up the area, and remove equipment to return the work site to its normal state.

Cost Considerations

As any facility manager or contractor knows, time is money. The good news is that using aerial cranes for installing rooftop HVAC units can be surprisingly cost-effective compared to traditional ground cranes. They offer a simpler, faster, and often cheaper solution.

One of the biggest advantages is that helicopters are capable of performing the tasks associated with rooftop HVAC installation much faster, which means lift fees are often lower since they frequently charge by the hour. In many cases, the helicopter service provider you hire will take care of the logistics for you, saving you time and money. Aerial cranes are also significantly more flexible, requiring minimal setup and no extensive road and site disruptions.

Bulky, stationary ground cranes, on the other hand, can be a significant drain on resources. They need to be set up and sometimes require road closures or traffic management, which can result in project delays and added expenses. The cost of renting, operating, and moving a ground crane–plus the time spent on setup and teardown–can be a logistical and financial burden.

When you first meet with a potential helicopter service company and discuss your project challenges and goals, you will receive pricing information specific to your project scope. Experts will help you choose the most efficient helicopter for your needs.

Hire Helicopter Express for All Your Heavy-Lift Needs

Atlanta-based Helicopter Express is the Southeast’s premier heavy-lift helicopter service for contractors and project managers needing rooftop HVAC unit placement, utility construction, rigging, and support for all other types of heavy-lift projects.

For almost 30 years, we’ve committed to providing our clients with the highest standards of safety, reliability, and precision in the industry. Our team of experts is well-versed in external load operations, aerial lifting techniques, and ground crew coordination, ensuring seamless execution from start to finish.

Because every project is different, we offer customized solutions tailored to your specific needs. We will work closely with you to develop a comprehensive plan that factors in your project scope, location, timeline, and budgetary considerations. 

Contact us today so we can plan your rooftop unit placement.