5 Helpful Tips on Where to Put Your HVAC Unit

Aside from being an eyesore, HVAC units can also negatively affect your home’s curb appeal. In addition, an evident HVAC unit may turn away potential buyers, so you should consider putting it in a less-used location. Here are the five  helpful tips on where to put your HVAC unit:

Put the HVAC unit in a hallway.

A central hallway is an ideal place for an HVAC unit. You can branch the ducts out to different rooms. Adding a hot tub can require the relocation of your HVAC unit, but you can always make an exception. Above-ground pools require additional equipment, including an external pump and an electrical connection. If you can relocate your HVAC unit, you can make the pool area more attractive while keeping the air conditioner in its original location.

Avoid placing the HVAC unit in an area that will interfere with children’s playtime. Also, don’t install the unit in a location that will be visible to many visitors. You don’t want the unit to get in the way of the family’s fun, so try to find a less-used space. Moreover, avoid placing it in a high-traffic area, as it can cause potential buyers to turn away.

Clean condenser fins

Inspect the air conditioner’s condenser fins for dirt, grime, and other debris. These fins are thin metal slats that guide warm air away from the AC unit. To function efficiently, you must clean these fins regularly for your HVAC system. Follow these instructions to maintain a clean condenser. This will extend the life of your air conditioner and make it more energy-efficient.To clean the condenser, you must first turn off the power. Find the power switch next to your HVAC unit or inside your home. Begin by cleaning the fins and coil with a brush or vacuum cleaner. Be careful not to bend the fins, as doing so may hinder airflow. You can also use a lint-free cloth to wipe away any light accumulations.

Place the HVAC unit in the shade.

To maximize the effectiveness of your air conditioning system, plant a few trees in your yard. You want to plant deciduous trees on your home’s east and west sides. Deciduous trees will provide ample shade for your air conditioning unit, and the lower-growing trees will offer morning shade. Deciduous trees will also keep your home cool during the winter and prevent the sun from overheating it in the summer. On the other hand, evergreen trees provide continuous shade and help block high winds.

The best way to install a shade for your HVAC unit is to plant trees around your home. Tall, leafy trees will provide plenty of shade for the air conditioner and reduce the risk of overheating. Plant them at least 20 feet away from your home since the natural trees may take up to 12 months to grow. Once established, they will produce shade for your HVAC unit for years to come. But before planting any trees, be sure to check the local weather conditions before planting them.

Keep the HVAC unit clean

You might not realize it, but keeping your HVAC unit clean can benefit its lifespan. Dirt and grime can cause these components to break down more quickly and affect the parts’ life. Even parts that are coated will not last as long when dirty. Therefore, changing the filters frequently and cleaning air ducts periodically is crucial. Besides removing dirt, debris, and other foreign particles, air cleaning can provide your home with a more hygienic air environment.

Dirty air filters can reduce efficiency and increase energy costs. Besides, dirty filters can lead to premature replacement and extra repairs. Thus, you should change your air filters every three months. Likewise, you should contact a professional HVAC technician if you see signs of leaking ducts. They can seal any leaks that may be present in your ductwork and repair them before they lead to further problems. By following these tips, you can keep your HVAC unit in optimum condition and extend its life.

Install a programmable thermostat

To install a programmable thermostat on where to place your HVAC unit, first determine the exact location. Ideally, you’ll have an electrical outlet in this area, but you can install one on the wall if not. Make sure you check the wiring, too. If you’re replacing a traditional thermostat, you need to ensure that your HVAC unit’s wiring can support the new thermostat.

To avoid heating your home more than necessary, install a programmable thermostat in the rooms where you use the most heat. For example, because the kitchen is the hottest room in the house, the thermostat will be set higher there than elsewhere. On the other hand, hallways are generally unoccupied and don’t have people. Therefore, the readings will be false. Moreover, doors and windows are constantly bringing drafts into your home. Your thermostat’s temperature will fluctuate accordingly since they’re open and closed frequently.