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Split unit air conditioners consist of an indoor unit that conditions the air and an outdoor unit that dispels heat from the system. To get the best value and ensure optimal performance of split systems, you will be required to choose the ideal installation location for the indoor and outdoor unit. Selecting a location for the outdoor unit can be challenging due to exposure to the elements. Learn some factors that you should consider when choosing the location of your split system's outdoor unit.

Weight of the unit

Split air conditioning units are available in various sizes. For this reason, some outdoor units, especially the larger ones may be heavier than smaller units. Outdoor units are usually placed on a surface or mounted to the wall or the roof. The surface you choose to place the unit should be able to support the weight of the unit. For ground installation, go for solid and even ground, preferably with a concrete base. When installing it on a wall or the roof, ensure that the surfaces are strong enough to hold the weight of the unit.

Free flow of air

Outdoor units play the role of dispensing hot air from the entire system and allowing in cool air. Choosing an area with free circulation of air is paramount to the performance of the system. If there isn't a free flow of air in and out of the system, it may end up overheating, and this will damage critical components such as the coils. Also, if the system is not able to dispense heat from the indoor unit, it can cause it to overheat as well. Choose a location with free air circulation.

Exposure to elements

Outdoor units are bound to come into contact with rainwater and exposed to the wind. Some of these elements can be destructive beyond a certain degree. As such, ensure that you undertake the following to protect the unit from poor performance or breakdown as a result of exposure to rain, winds, and snow.

• Don't place the unit on a place with standing water or in the path of runoff; consider mounting it on a wall or the roof if your area is prone to floods.
• Wall and roof mounted units should be protected from the wind by ensuring they are properly secured as strong winds can knock over the unit or interfere with the fins.
• Install the unit at a location that's higher than the snowfall of the area to avoid interference from the snow during winter.

Have these factors in mind when choosing the suitable location for your split system's outdoor unit. You can ask for the help of an installation contractor if you are unable to come up with the ideal location.