Most air conditioners have indoor and outdoor units. While the former is designed to draw out the moisture from the air inside your living space, the latter is where the heat is transferred using the refrigerant. It also contains a fan, a compressor, and a condenser coil.
But where should your air conditioning outdoor unit be installed? While this can be straightforward for some, it can be tricky for most homeowners. The following are some points to think about:
- The Location Should be Rigid Enough
Aside from the noise, your air conditioner is likely to vibrate while running. Over time, its copper tubing will be prone to wear and tear. Then, the refrigerant will start to leak, making your home uncomfortable.
One sure way to keep that serious problem at bay is to ensure that the surface where to install your air conditioner is rigid.
- It Should be Located in an Open Space
Imagine you have a newly installed air conditioner. But why is there not enough heat coming from the vent?
While there are many factors to blame, there’s a high chance that your unit is not installed correctly. You can have it re-inspected by the pros specializing in premium quality AC installation in Pueblo, CO.
Usually, the best location for your outdoor unit is an open space like the terrace. It allows the air to flow freely over the condenser and compressor, but it will also help you beat the heat during the long, sweltering days.
- The Location Should Be Accessible for Any Tune-Up Tasks
There’s a wide variety of reasons why an air conditioning maintenance project is delayed.
The location where the cooling equipment is placed is on top of the list. Instead of inspecting the system right away, your local HVAC contractor will have to deal with other tasks at hand.
So, whether your current air conditioner is not working as it’s supposed to be or you’re planning to invest in something new and efficient, make sure to install it in a place that’s easy to access.
- Ensure There are No Hindrances in Front of the Unit
The excess dirt in the filter, ductwork and other parts of an HVAC can impede airflow. The same thing happens when something blocks your outdoor air conditioning system. That’s why you have to remove any obstructions around the cooling appliance.
When left unattended for days, expect your electric bills to increase. Also, it might lead to frequent unit failures that could break your bank.
Costly and Potential Mistakes You Should Avoid
Now that you know some pointers to consider when searching for the best location for your outdoor air conditioning system, your job does not stop there.
Although you can sit back and relax with superior quality AC installation in Pueblo, CO, from a local HVAC technician, you also have a responsibility as a homeowner. Knowing some AC unit placement mistakes is worth your time.
Installing the Unit in An Area That Direct Sunlight Always Reaches
When the sun’s up and shining bright, it can heat up your outdoor air conditioner to temperatures that are not good for its health. As a result, it will have to work harder than usual to cool down your home.
Not only will this lead to increased electric bills, but it might also cause your AC to fail prematurely. So, shading the appliance may help.
Please feel free to take advantage of superior AC installation in Pueblo, CO, from the right expert for more information.
While asking for help from the pros may require extra cost, you can ensure that your installation project will be handled according to your specific needs and requirements.
Installing It Near a Heat Source
Like placing the unit in an area where too much sunlight reaches, installing the outdoor air conditioner near a heat source is also not wise.
One of the main functions of the air conditioner is to remove excess heat from your home. When placed near a heat source, it can’t do its job efficiently. As a result, your AC will have to work overtime, which can be quite taxing on its health.
Not to mention, it will also drive up your monthly utility bills. That’s why it’s best to ask for help from the pros specializing in top-notch AC installation in Pueblo, CO.
They know what to do and where to place your unit for optimum results. Also, they have the right tools and equipment to get the job done without damaging your property.
Failing to Level the Unit
If you’re not familiar with air conditioners, you might think that it doesn’t matter if the unit is not level. Well, that’s not entirely true.
An unleveled outdoor air conditioning unit can cause several problems, including the following:
- It can lead to water pooling around the base of the appliance.
- The pooling water can rust the metal parts of your HVAC equipment, causing it to break down earlier than you have expected.
- An unleveled unit can also impede airflow, which can give any of your cooling appliances a hard time performing their job.
- The overall performance of your compressor will be reduced with frequent use and time.
Other Guidelines You Should Always Remember
What else should you know about installing your outdoor air conditioner? Below are the other things to remember:
- Be sure to elevate the condenser of your air conditioning system away from rainwater pools. For your convenience, you should also invest in a patio stone place and a concrete pad at the same time.
- Since the outdoor system creates a sound while running, place it in an area that won’t disturb you and your neighbors so that you can focus on any tasks you do and have a quality night’s sleep.
- There must be at least 2 or 3 feet of extra space surrounding your cooling equipment. Not only will this ensure enough airflow, but it will also help you stay cozy when it gets hotter day by day.
- Every duct available should be checked on a regular basis as it is one of the air HVAC components that accumulate too much dirt, dust, and other debris as time goes by. So, deep cleaning, repair, or replacement may be suitable.
- No obstructions should be near your air conditioner because they can affect your appliance’s cooling feature and performance. What’s worse, it can cause your electric costs to skyrocket. So, if something obstructs the unit (for example, a piece of furniture), place them in your storage rooms for a while.
Where Should an Outside Air Conditioner Be Installed?
Perhaps installing an outdoor air conditioner on a concrete pad is the most popular option. It provides a stable and level surface for the unit.
Metal stands are also on top of everyone’s list as they offer good support and stability for the cooling system.
On the contrary, bricks or blocks can do the same thing but may not be as level as a concrete pad or metal stand.
Which is the best choice? It is imperative to identify your needs beforehand to help you make a confident decision.
Why Should You Consult with an Experienced Local HVAC Technician?
If you still encounter trouble finding the right location for your outdoor air conditioner, remember that you don’t need to handle the process independently. There are pros with in-depth expertise in AC installation in Pueblo, CO, that you can count on and trust.
Here are what you can expect from a licensed HVAC contractor:
- They will help you choose the best location for your unit, taking into consideration factors such as the size of your unit, the layout of your property, the climate in your area, and other essential details.
- They will install your air conditioner according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- They will test your unit to ensure that it is working correctly and make any necessary adjustments without additional expenses. The testing process only lasts for a few minutes for your convenience and peace of mind.
- They will provide you with a written estimate of the project’s cost so that you can budget for it ahead of time. There are also no hidden fees and other surprises.
Schedule a Consultation with Clarks Mechanical Today!
At Clarks Mechanical, your satisfaction has always been our goal since day one. We handle any AC installation project with quality and precision in mind.
We will send one of our experienced and licensed HVAC contractors to your home to help you choose the best location for your outdoor AC unit and install it according to the industry’s best practices.
We also want to make sure that you are happy with the end result, so we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all of our services.
Beyond installation, we specialize in tune-up, repair, and replacement, making us the top favorite for the residents in Pueblo and the surrounding areas. If you’re interested in scheduling a consultation, please give us a call at (719) 696-9375 today!
