Should the outdoor AC unit be in the shade?

Energy.gov confidently states that “shading the outside unit can increase its efficiency by up to 10%.” Even house-savvy BobVila.com proclaims, “Shading your air conditioner can reduce energy costs by as much as 50 percent.”

Does shading an outside AC unit help?

Shading your air conditioning unit can help the unit work more efficiently, cut your cooling costs and lengthen your air conditioner's life. Trees and shrubs also help keep the air inside your house cool, and can increase your enjoyment of your outdoor space.

Can we keep AC outdoor unit in sunlight?

Yes, absolutely, direct sun will affect your A/C system. It will decrease your efficiency, and slightly decrease the cooling capacity of your A/C system. However, typically your system will still work.

How do you shade an outside AC unit?

Plant at least two or three trees on the side of your house where your AC is located. For example, a six- to the eight-foot-tall deciduous tree will provide shade for your unit within a year of planting it. Plant a series of low-growing bushes and shrubs around the condenser, but not too close.

Should my window AC be in the shade?

When Landscaping Shade Isn't Possible. If you're installing a window air conditioner, PennState College of Earth and Mineral Sciences says to place the unit in a window on the north or east-facing side of the house whenever possible. These sides remain more shaded throughout the day as the sun moves across the sky.

Does shading the air conditioner reduce head pressure and power usage?

Where should an outside AC unit be installed?

In ideal situations the air conditioner should be installed on the north or east side of you home, so that your home can naturally shade your air conditioning unit from the sun during the hottest part of the day. The next-best option is under the shade of a tree, preferably one which drop little debris.

How do I protect my outside AC unit?

Shield your HVAC system from water and debris by covering it with a tarp that can withstand strong winds. Buy and use a specially designed cover or place a metal or plywood cage around the outdoor air conditioner unit to protect it from flying debris if strong winds occur.

How do I protect my outside AC unit from rain?

Many homeowners prefer to cover their AC units for the winter if their internal parts are exposed. Avoid covering your unit with plastic wraps or garbage bags because the moisture from the condensation can stay trapped inside rusting and corroding metal parts. It is advised to use a covering that allows ventilation.

Should you cover AC unit in summer?

If you're considering covering your outside AC unit in the summer, whether to protect it from bad weather or to possibly save energy, the reality is that you should never cover your AC unit – not even during bad weather. For one thing, outdoor AC units are specifically designed to live outdoors.

How do I protect my window air conditioner from sun?

Shading the entire side of your house and the outdoor air-conditioner unit is most effective. This can be done with trees or an awning. Particularly with a brick, masonry or stucco house, the house wall acts like a huge solar collector and actually raises the temperature of the air around the air conditioner.

Is it OK to spray water on your air conditioner?

The good news is that you absolutely can spray water on your air conditioner if it needs a cleaning, and nothing bad will happen. Spraying water on your AC's condenser also helps it run more efficiently. In fact, your condenser needs a regular spritzing in order to keep doing a good job.

How do I maximize my AC unit?

Can AC outdoor unit be exposed to rain?

If you have ever wondered “Does rain affect my air conditioning unit,” the short answer is “No.” In most cases, rain is safe for your air conditioning system, though there are some exceptions, and a few precautions to take during strong storms.

Does AC unit need to be covered?

CONCLUSION. Covering your air conditioner, especially with a full-length cover, leads to issues of mold, rust, and other problems. Your unit is made to withstand the snow and a cover is not needed for protection. It is recommended to only cover your AC during the fall months.

Will rain hurt my air conditioner?

While rain will not damage your air conditioner, deep standing water could. If there is more than about 15 inches of water, the moving parts and electrical components may not be able to operate. After the water recedes, it's best to call an HVAC contractor to check the unit before you restart it.

How can I make my AC condenser more efficient?

How much space do you need around AC condenser?

The general rule of thumb is to have at least one foot (or 12 inches) of clearance on each side of your air conditioner. Your air conditioner's manufacturer may have specific clearance recommendations, but they'll generally recommend between 12 and 24 inches.

What happens when an AC outdoor unit is set lower than an indoor unit?

If the outdoor unit is kept at level below the indoor, some of the compressor power is used in pumping the refrigerant against the gravity, thus reducing the overall performance of the compressor.

Can snakes get into air conditioner?

Snakes can nest in ductwork or sometimes coil up in the condenser. A snake that is inside the A/C unit when it turns on up will likely be killed by the motion of the fan blades, but that interaction can also damage the blades or other components.

Is AC outdoor unit waterproof?

Rain will not damage the outdoor unit, even if there is a torrential downpour. The external unit of an AC is made from extremely durable materials which have been designed to withstand harsh conditions, rain, hail or shine.

Can we keep AC outdoor unit on the roof?

Homeowners, living in areas which tend to have warmer climates, should ideally prefer to install the outdoor unit on the ground. This is because, placing the unit on the rooftop means, exposing it to the scorching heat of the sun. Consequently, the air conditioner will not operate at optimum efficiency.

How high off the ground should a condenser be?

Placing the unit at a decent height (at least 7 feet off the ground) allows for good airflow and convenient drainage.