Where Should I Install My Outdoor Air Conditioning Unit?

Has the summer heat finally convinced you to invest in central air conditioning? If so, it’ll be one investment you won’t regret. Just think — no more hot, uncomfortable nights, no more eating out just to sit in air conditioning, and no more lugging a window unit in and out every year.

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Before you start shopping around, it’s important to determine where to install your outdoor air conditioner unit.

Are There Zoning or Building Code Regulations That Dictate Where Outdoor AC Units Can Be Installed?

Before you start thinking about where to install your AC unit, you first need to check the zoning rules and building code regulations for your location. For example, zoning laws may require you to place your AC unit in the back rather than the side of your home, or building code regulations may stipulate the need for a level foundation for your outdoor unit.

It’s crucial to understand these rules and regulations when determining where to install an air conditioner for your home. Working with a professional contractor who has experience installing AC units in your neighborhood can help you choose the right location.

How Does the Placement of the Outdoor AC Unit Affect Its Performance and Efficiency?

Where you place your outdoor air conditioner unit has a direct impact on its overall performance and efficiency. For instance, you should never install an AC unit in a location that receives direct sunlight. This direct exposure to the sun forces your unit to work harder and longer. The end results are reduced efficiency of your unit and higher electric costs for you.

While shade can keep your AC unit cooler, being too close to trees poses other issues. Pollen, leaves, twigs and other debris can get stuck in your AC unit and impact its performance. If your air conditioning is located near a tree, frequent lawn care is required to minimize the risk of the debris damaging your unit.

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Factors to Consider When Selecting a Location for the Outdoor Air Conditioning Unit

There are a few factors you should consider when deciding where to install your outdoor air conditioning. You want the unit to be:

• Out of the sunlight: As mentioned above, installing your AC unit away from direct sunlight improves its efficiency. Consider placing the unit on the north or east side of your home because these sides receive less direct sunlight during the day.

• Away from entertainment space: Central AC units are not very quiet. In fact, when the fan is running, it can be quite loud, especially in a quiet space. Keep this in mind when choosing the right location, and don’t install it too close to outdoor areas you use for entertaining guests or enjoying family time.

• With all-around clearance: To ensure proper airflow, there should be a minimum of 24 inches of clearance the entire way around your unit. This includes trees, bushes, furniture and your home. This wide clearance allows air to freely flow in and out of your AC unit to ensure peak performance.

• Where it's accessible but not obtrusive: It’s inevitable that your air conditioner unit will require maintenance or repairs at some point in the future. It’s important to install your unit in a location that HVAC workers can easily access when necessary. Additionally, you don’t want to place the unit where it will obstruct a walkway or path you, your family members and guests may use.

• On stable ground: The vibration of the AC unit can shake and move the ground beneath it. It’s crucial to install the unit on stable, level ground that's strong enough to handle these vibrations. Depending on your specific landscape, you may need to build a small foundation to secure your outdoor air conditioning unit.

An investment in central air conditioning is an investment in your family’s comfort. Before you make this large purchase, use the tips above to determine where to install a central air conditioner unit outside.