Air conditioner installation may appear straightforward. However, all the technical issues aside, the key issue to consider is location. If you want the a/c to work at its top capacity when needed, you have to find the perfect place to install it.
Even the most powerful air conditioners can’t function properly if they are poorly installed. If you don’t know what the best location for your a/c is, consider asking for professional assistance. An a/c installation expert can recommend the best location and make sure you get the most out of your new appliance.
Let’s take a closer look at things to consider when choosing the perfect place for your a/c unit.
1. The Stream
While it’s hot outside, you want the air conditioner to be as powerful as possible. However, when the stream of cold air is directed straight at you, it’s easy to feel uncomfortable. Many homeowners complain about the convenience of their a/c simply because they don’t install it in the right way.
So the key to staying comfortable while not suffering from excessive heat is to avoid a direct air stream.
To do that, if you are installing a split a/c system, consider doing it as high as possible. This way the cold air will circulate under the ceiling, cooling the hot air as it comes up. Meanwhile, the stream won’t be directed at any of your household members whether they are sleeping, working, on relaxing.
In case you are installing an a/c on your window, consider choosing the window, which isn’t directed at the spot you usually sit or sleep on.
2. The Coverage
No matter how large your room is, it’s possible to find an a/c designed specifically for the area you want to cover. However, many people complain that the a/c they purchase doesn’t cool the room as promised. The reason is poor installation.
According to experts from Hartman, air conditioning installation company, homeowners often don’t realize that the location of their a/c can affect its coverage. If you install the air conditioner in a faraway corner, it can take much longer for the entire room to cool than it would take with a centrally located a/c.
Speak with an installation expert to figure out which place is the best option for your a/c. By trying to make it as central as possible, you are maximizing the coverage.
3. Access
To function properly, air conditioners need regular maintenance. From cleaning the surface and changing filters to refrigerant refill, maintenance tasks require direct access to the unit. If you install the a/c too high or behind obstacles, each cleaning or filter replacement will turn into a tedious and time-consuming task.
Make sure you have access to the a/c wherever it’s installed. This won’t just simplify cleaning but also keep the air flowing freely. Obstacles in the air stream’s way can keep the a/c from cooling your room properly.
When installing the outdoor unit, consider installing it as close to the ground as possible. This will make professional servicing safer and easier.
4. Heat Sources
The air conditioner must be installed away from any heat sources. For example, the indoor unit shouldn’t be located near the stove. Meanwhile, your a/c shouldn’t be located under direct sunlight. Heat sources interfere with the a/c’s work, giving it false readings about the temperature in the room.
If your thermostat misreads the temperature, it will keep the a/c working harder than necessary, thus increasing your energy bills.
Additionally, place the a/c away from electrical appliances. Condensation produced by the unit could interfere with the appliance’s function.
5. Outdoor Unit
To keep the outdoor unit functioning properly, consider the following installation tips:
· Don’t place it in direct sunlight.
· Keep the unit away from places where leaves fall or yard waste accumulates.
· Put the outdoor unit in such a place where it can be fenced off so animals don’t damage it.
· If you are a light sleeper, don’t place it against the bedroom wall.
The outdoor unit needs maintenance just like the indoor unit does. So make sure it’s easy to access.
The Takeaway
The location of your a/c unit is extremely important. A poorly placed a/c can’t work at full capacity, thus failing to maintain the desired temperature. Before installing the unit, ask the installation experts for location recommendations.