How To Decide The Location For Your Central HVAC System’s Installation?

How to decide the ideal location for installing your central HVAC system. Get expert tips and insights from Sandium.

Updated on Oct 22, 2023
5 min read
How To Decide The Location For Your Central HVAC System’s Installation?

Finding the right location for your central air conditioner is vital aspect of its installation. There can be serious issues in the long term if you don’t properly place the AC unit. Your HVAC unit may need to work harder if you install it in a less than desirable location. This will also increase the likelihood of costly air conditioner repairs.

While every Bay Area home is different, there are a few considerations you should keep in mind while deciding on the best location for installation. You can enjoy greater comfort, long term reliability and increased efficiency by choosing the best location.

Location of the Condenser Unit

Condenser unit is an HVAC system’s outdoor unit. It contains the condenser coil and compressor pump. The unit can be placed in the backyard, side of the home, or on the roof. The primary job of the condenser unit is to take outdoor air and bring it inside the home. The air is them put through the cooling process for making your space comfortable.

There are a few things that you need to keep in mind while installing the condenser unit. For instance, general landscaping and level of sunlight in the spot should be conducive to efficient running. This is why you should consider working with a proven and trusted HVAC contractor.

Install in a Shady Location

You may want to consider installing the unit away from direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can increase an HVAC unit’s workload. You can consider placing the unit on the shady side of your house. However, make sure it is away from shrubs and trees. A shady location can ensure that your condenser remains cool. It won’t have to work as hard for lowering the temperature inside. The system will also work considerably longer and save you money in the long-term if it is not overworked consistently.

Consider an Open Location

While you should consider installing the unit in a shady location, you should keep it as far away from vegetation as possible. You should consider choosing an open location that has ample clearance of 2 – 3 feet on either side. The condenser should be at least five feet above anything that may restrict airflow.

Proper airflow is important for the compressor and condenser for proper cooling process. With that said, you can keep the outdoor unit and filter clean by keeping it away from trees and vegetation. This will also prevent grass, leaves, sticks and other debris from clogging the unit and possibly damaging other components.

Do Not Install Near Common Areas

Air conditioner units can be large and noisy. You should not place the unit in an area that may distract the other inhabitants of a home. It’s best if you don’t install it on the wall shared with the living room area or bedroom. You may want to consider installing it away from outdoor play and entertaining areas as well.

Install Away from Fire Hazards

You may want to install the AC unit away from things that may cause an electrical fire when considering the surroundings. It’s critical to remember that air conditioning units require a lot of power. You may want to avoid using the circuits of other high energy appliances. 

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