Why the Right HVAC Placement is Vital

When it comes to HVAC placement, just any place isn’t good enough. While the furnace as well as indoor A/C components typically have dedicated locations with existing access to vent pipes and the system ductwork, the outdoor half of the air conditioner that comprises the condenser coil and compressor needs its own special place, too. To ensure this critical unit performs at optimum efficiency and delivers maximum cooling, follow these guidelines for HVAC placement.

Indoors Is Not An Option

The A/C condenser unit should not be situated indoors, such as in an attic or a crawl space under the house. The function of the condenser is to disperse heat extracted from inside the home. This unit releases a large volume of hot air driven by its internal fan. If situated indoors, dispersed heat energy will radiate through the ceiling or floor of the house, adding heat back into the living spaces. Your air conditioner will run longer cycles to compensate, using more energy, raising operating costs and causing increased system wear and tear.

Another issue is adequate air volume. The condenser unit requires a large volume of outdoor air for cooling the coil. Indoor air volume within the enclosed space of an attic or crawl space is insufficient and may cause the coil and compressor incorporated in the unit to overheat, damaging these expensive components.

The Best Outdoor Location

An A/C condenser coil disperses heat most efficiently when the surrounding air is cooler. The ideal location for a condenser, therefore, is a spot where the unit is shaded by the house for the most hours per day. Keep it away from direct sunlight where possible.

Another factor in optimum placement is air circulation. The unit should not be placed too close to the exterior wall of the home—at least two feet away is recommended. Also trim back encroaching shrubbery to allow sufficient open space on all sides of the unit for air intake.

More questions about proper HVAC placement? Get answers from the professionals at NisAir Air Conditioning and Heating.