The correct placement of an A/C in your home is important in order to maximize the use of your unit and enjoy it to its fullest capacity.
Most homeowners are bothered by the sound and sometimes even the sight of the A/C so placing it in a proper space will help with some of those concerns. There are several important factors to consider when installing a central air conditioning unit and windows units alike.
Proper Placement to Reduce Bills
Air conditioning units if not properly placed can end up costing homeowners higher bills. The air the A/C draws in from the outdoors is the air that is used to circulate cooler air into your home. If the A/C unit is placed in direct sunlight this means that it will take the air conditioner longer to cool the air which means it will be running longer. An A/C that is running longer means electricity costs go up.
In order to avoid these issues, placing the A/C in the right spot will help to alleviate some of these issues. To counter these problems, install your air conditioner is a spot that is away from direct sunlight. Also, choose the side of your house that is usually cooler. This is the side of the house that is exposed to the least amount of heat and sun. The more shade, the better. Usually, this means that the north side of the house is the best placement for the A/C to fight the problem of processing extremely warm air.
Noise Reduction
One of the complaints about air conditioning units, window or central, is that they make a lot of noise. When an A/C is running the sound can be very similar to what a fan would sound like but there are more humming and buzzing involved. The A/C also adjusts to temperature and control setting and may make even more noise as it switches between settings or adjusts to the desired temperature. This can be especially true with older units.
To reduce the noise pollution that is generated by the A/C consider installing your air conditioner in a place where there is less foot traffic. This will help eliminate the intensity of the sound that comes from the A/C. This means that you will want to avoid setting up your A/C in or near a room where you will be entertaining guests, or near space in the home where your family frequently gathers. It’s also important to consider where you will install your A/C in the case that you will hear it humming at night. For some, the white noise of the A/C isn’t their preference so it may be wise to install the unit away from areas near bedroom windows as it may interrupt sleep.
Another area to avoid placing your air conditioning unit is the deck, patio, or porch. These are usually high-entertainment and relaxation areas. The A/C unit may throw off the peaceful vice because of all the noise.
Improve the Aesthetics
An air conditioning unit isn’t the prettiest piece of equipment out there. It’s often very large and bulky and can easily distract guests from the gorgeous look of your home. It can also be an obstruction for children playing in the yard, etc.
There are some clever ways to combat the uninviting look of an A/C. To start, you may want to enclose your A/C with a slotted fence. Make sure there is enough room around your encasement for the air conditioning unit to “breathe”, or in other words, ensure that your unit will be able to take in air. This encasement can cure the eyesore than an A/C can be, but it can also function in helping to cool the surrounding air around the unit.
Another way to improve aesthetics and generate clean airflow is to plant small trees or shrubs around your unit. Again, make sure that there is a proper amount of space between the unit and your greenery. Typically, a rule of thumb is to clear at least 2-3 feet around the parameter of your A/C unit if you are considering an enclosure.
If you don’t want to do anything major, you can consider planting some flowers near the air conditioner to reduce its industrial appearance. With any of these options be careful to clear away debris such as leaves, dirt, and other particles. This is to ensure that the filter stays clean and airflow is not being blocked. If a filter gets clogged with dirt and particles, the A/C unit will not function at its maximum efficiency.
Some homeowners want their air conditioner to be installed in a specific area where no one can see the A/C. This is understandable but an installation company should always have a good look first and give their recommendations. This is due to the fact that sometimes there need to be ducts installed to get the proper airflow into your home to cool the entire house.
Window Units
Window unit air conditioners are an effective way to cool smaller spaces. These too, need proper placement and installation. When installing a window A/C unit, make sure that you follow all of the directions in the installation manual. There are small and large parts that come with window units and it’s crucial that each piece down to the smallest screw is used and installed correctly. When placing a window unit make sure there are no air vents or spaces surrounding the unit. This will make your unit work at less than maximum capacity, will cause moisture issues, and will mean more work and longer run times for your A/C to properly cool the room.
Never place an air conditioning unit near or above natural stone countertops. Kitchens and bathrooms can get really muggy as it is in the summer, and the added moisture that an A/C can generate may potentially damage your natural stone countertops. Natural stone and moisture do not mix, and harm may be done if especially if your countertops are not properly sealed. In order to avoid the issue altogether, keep A/C units away from natural stone.
Getting the Most from your Air Conditioner
Enjoying your air conditioning unit to its fullest extent is possible with proper placement. Keep these tips in mind the next time you’re thinking about installing an A/C unit whether it be brand new, or a replacement. Reduce your costs, reduce the noise, and enjoy the cool refreshment.
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