Once you have picked out your new air conditioning unit and decided on a contractor to install it for you, your next big decision will be placement of your unit. If you are replacing an old unit, you may want to install your new one in the same position. However, if you were unhappy with the location of your old unit due to visual or aural distraction, or if you are installing an air conditioner for the first time, then you will have to choose a new placement. Below are five of the things you should consider when deciding where to place the outdoor portion of your unit.
Choose a Shaded Area
As they work, air conditioners produce a lot of heat. When combined with high outdoor temperatures, this can cause units that are placed in direct sunlight to overheat. To help your unit run as efficiently as possible, you should choose a cool, shady placement for it. A northern or eastern wall of your home is often a good option. If you must place your unit on a southern or western wall, then consider creating shade for the unit by installing a trellis or planting tall bushes somewhat near it.
Make Sure There Is Plenty of Airflow
To cool efficiently, your unit will need adequate airflow. To help ensure airflow, you should make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding any items near the unit. For example, some manufacturers may require a foot of clearance around the unit while other manufacturers may suggest two feet of clearance. Even beyond the recommended clearance, you should make sure that the items around your air conditioning unit do not block air flow. For example, avoid installing it near a corner that limits airflow and opt for concealing embellishments that have sufficient gaps.
Make Sure the Ground Is Solid and Level
Air conditioners should be installed on level ground, above the average snow level for your area. This may mean that you should place it on a patio or deck. If you do not have a level patio or deck available, then you should use a concrete slab to support the unit. This will prevent the unit from getting damaged by sinking into the wet ground or from sitting in melting snow throughout the winter.
Make Sure the Unit Can Be Easily Accessed for Maintenance
There are several popular options for concealing your air conditioner if it is near an outdoor area that you regularly use. However, many of these options limit access to your unit, which can make it difficult for a repair person to reach. If you install a privacy screen or box of some type, make sure that it is easy to remove for maintenance. For example, trellises with live plants are usually not a good option as you cannot move them without killing the plants.
Privacy screens can be acceptable if you know where the filters and controls on your unit are, and the privacy screen is placed in a way that allows open access to these items.
Work With a Professional
The best way to ensure you choose a good placement for your unit is to work with a professional. Before your contractor comes to install your unit, select a few places where you may want to place it, then discuss which placement will be best for your situation. A professional with experience will likely point out considerations that you did not notice, such as placement below a bedroom window being potentially aggravating for the occupant.
Deciding where to place your air conditioning unit can mean the difference between loving your unit and being constantly annoyed by its visual or aural distraction. For more information, contact the best heating and air conditioning contractor in your area.
Share15 July 2016
Hi there, I am Nadine Bachmier. I am going to discuss the various ways HVAC contractors can keep the temperatures in your business stable. HVAC contractors focus on maintaining and repairing the air conditioner, furnace, and ductwork used in your building. To keep the heating and cooling system in good shape, contractors may need to replace internal components, clean out channels, or simply perform a full upgrade. I will talk about the tools and techniques used to maintain and repair the equipment in your building. I will also share information about new products as they hit the HVAC market. I hope you will follow along and learn all you can.