Installing a brand-new HVAC unit gives you the opportunity to decide on its placement. While the most obvious choice might be to keep it out of sight, this might not always work in your favor. You may have several inconspicuous locations to choose from that make it difficult to decide on the ideal spot. Keep reading as the professionals from Forever Builders, the best remodel company in Costa Mesa, explain some general guidelines for placing HVAC units.
Pick a Shady Area for the Outdoor Unit
Naturally, the outdoor unit may be exposed to heat and direct sunlight that impacts its efficiency. For peak energy savings, you’ll want to begin by finding a place outside your home that’s the coolest during the hottest part of the day. Typically, this will be on the eastern or northern side of your home. A local contractor will often know exactly where the sun will hit during the later parts of the day in your area.
Watch Out for Vegetation
Putting the outdoor unit in an area that provides shade can keep it cooler. But you also need to be cautious about placing it beneath trees or large bushes that could drop debris. If leaves, twigs, and other types of debris fall too close to the unit, they could cause a clog that restricts air flow and causes the unit to stop working. Routine maintenance can keep most major clogs from occurring, and installing the unit away from vegetation extends its efficiency between seasonal cleanings.
Look for a Central & Safe Indoor Location
The indoor part of your HVAC system contains essential parts, such as the blower and evaporator coils, that must be kept in perfect condition for the unit to work properly. If you have the option, placing the indoor unit in a central part of your home can reduce how much ductwork you need and potentially lower your electricity bills.
Many homeowners use small closets in interior hallways to house their indoor units. Pantries and utility closets are additional options that may be located in other parts of the home. Although people with older homes sometimes place their indoor units in attics, this tends to be less preferable due to rising heat, which can lower the units’ efficiency.
Select the Thermostat’s Location Wisely
Depending on the type of HVAC system you choose, you might have a single thermostat regulating the temperature throughout the entire house. If you know certain portions of the house will be hotter than others, you may need to place the thermostat strategically. Keeping the thermostat away from drafty areas or places with direct sunlight beaming through the window can give your home a more even temperature throughout the year.
Consider Accessibility
Once the unit is installed, you’ll need to be able to access the system to perform routine maintenance, such as replacing the air filters. When you choose the location, let the installers know if you have difficulty reaching certain parts of your home. This will help them do their best to recommend installation sites that help you keep your new system in peak condition.
If you’re preparing to add an HVAC unit to your home, call on the pros from Forever Builders to install your system. We’re the home remodeling Costa Mesa experts you can trust to provide an affordable range of HVAC services designed to ensure your home remains a haven of comfort and energy efficiency. To find out more about our outstanding services, from full home remodeling to high-quality HVAC installation, give one of our friendly team members a call today.