Where to install the outdoor air conditioning unit?

When installing an air conditioner, positioning is everything. Split system air conditioners work by having both the outdoor and indoor units. The outdoor unit of the aircon system is typically positioned on an outside wall for optimal performance, but a professional, qualified and licensed installer can help you choose the ideal location for your specific needs.

For efficient cooling, the unit should be placed on a shaded and flat surface, away from direct sunlight and water. If you would like to discuss air conditioner placement, or have any questions, please contact our friendly All Purpose aircon specialists.

Where to place the outdoor unit of an aircon system?

When setting up an air conditioner, the external unit should be located strategically to avoid direct sunlight. Optimum placement includes a wall facing north or south; east and west walls are best to avoid, if possible, since they receive more sun exposure throughout summer months, which makes your air conditioner work harder and end up costing you more in energy fees. To make sure that you find the best spot for it, take some time to observe where your house is hit by the most sunshine during hot days.

Why is the location of the outdoor unit important?

• Placing the outdoor unit in a suitable location allows the unit to get fresh air and dissipate the heat outside easily
• Allows the unit to run efficiently
• Keeps the energy consumption to a reasonable level
• Maintains the life of the unit

A qualified HVAC technician is essential for the ultimate success of your installation. Investing in experienced professionals, not only gives you peace of mind that everything was done properly and safely but also provides you with a longer lifespan and more efficient performance from your air conditioner - saving money on energy bills as well as maintenance costs.

5 things to consider when choosing location for the outdoor AC unit

• Protect the outdoor unit from direct sunlight
  Sunlight will heat up the system and make the unit work harder to provide the optimum cooling effect. It will also increase the energy cost of the unit and affect the life of the unit.
  Tip : Put the outdoor unit in a north or south facing wall.
  
  
• Put the outdoor unit in an open and flat area
  Install the unit in a dry, stable and well-ventilated area. This allows the unit to dissipate the heat properly. It is key to ensure that the unit is not obstructed at all as this can actually hinder with the cooling process and make your aircon a lot less efficient. It is worth mentioned that air con outdoor units can be reasonably large so make sure that it would not be pertruding across a passageway and cause you to have to perform a limbo dance everytime you want to pass!
  
  
• Keep it away from trees and dirty areas
  Although shading is necessary, placing it near trees or driveway can attract leaves and dirt inside the unit. Water is a big no no as well so if there is an area where rain tends to pool, mount the unit in a elevated position.
  
  
• Maintenance and repairs
  The unit should be accessible for maintenance and repair work
  
  
• Noise
  The outdoor unit produces some noise which might disturb your neighbours. The unit should be placed in an area which doesn’t break your local noise pollution laws. Unless your home is really close to the neighbour, this might not be an issue. The unit also needs to be mounted in a stable place and so older timber or weatherboard are not ideal as there is potential for vibrations to come through the wall.

Your Local Air Conditioning Installation Experts

Our air conditioning installers can help you choose the perfect location for your indoor and outdoor unit to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the year. If you are planning to install an aircon, we can help. For a quick, no-obligation quote give us a call now on 1300 405 295 or complete an online aircon installation quote form.