Macon’s climate is characterized by hot, humid summers, so you need an air conditioning unit that’s consistent and reliable. One question that many homeowners ask is whether shading the outdoor AC unit is a good idea. The helpful team at Ricky Heath Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling offers some insight into shading outdoor AC units and whether it benefits or harms your system.
Does Shading Your AC Unit Actually Help?
Does shading your AC unit help it or harm it? Overall, placing your outdoor AC unit in a shady location or under a man-made shaded cover may be beneficial if it’s done correctly. If the shade isn’t done properly, it can do more harm than good.
Explore some of the benefits of shading your AC condenser and some risks and mistakes to avoid so you’re able to make a well-informed decision.
Benefits of Shading an AC Condenser
There are some real benefits of shading an air conditioner condenser outdoors. While some benefits may not be immediate, others offer long-term results, such as improved energy efficiency. Here’s a closer look at some of the main benefits associated with shading your outdoor air conditioner.
Better energy efficiency
Some research suggests that shading your AC unit or condenser can help improve its total energy efficiency by nearly 30 percent each year. When your outdoor unit is constantly exposed to heat and direct sunlight, it increases the operating temperature, forcing it to work harder and potentially leading to overheating and increased energy consumption.
When the outdoor temperature is lowered by shade, it helps reduce the temperature, which in turn allows the unit to operate more efficiently overall and potentially saves you money on energy costs.
Extends system lifespan
When there’s less wear and tear on your AC unit, the system lasts longer. Along with regular AC maintenance, adding the right shade to the outdoor unit can extend its lifespan and help to prevent the need for costly repairs or a full replacement.
May improve indoor comfort
While placing your HVAC unit in shade may not significantly impact cooling and overall performance, the type of shade used and its location can affect your home’s indoor comfort. For example, planting tall trees near or around your outdoor AC condenser can help make your home feel cooler overall. Trees help reduce the amount of direct sunlight entering your home, automatically keeping it cooler, so it’s a win-win for both you and your air conditioner unit.
Risks and Mistakes to Avoid When Shading Your AC
Now that you know more about the benefits of shading your AC, it's important to be aware of some critical risks and mistakes to avoid.
Restricting airflow
Whether it’s trees or some type of structure, any object placed too close to your AC unit can restrict airflow by a significant amount. The outdoor unit needs sufficient airflow for the condenser to work and cool the refrigerant and expel heat properly. When airflow is restricted, it reduces energy efficiency, causes overheating, leads to excess wear and tear, and could shorten your system’s lifespan.
Additionally, inadequate airflow leads to poor cooling performance overall, resulting in a hot and uncomfortable home.
Using the wrong type of shade
Walls and fences that completely enclose your AC unit aren’t recommended. These structures may trap heat and humidity, which can also result in inadequate airflow. A roof or canopy that’s located too close to your outdoor unit can also trap the hot air that your air conditioner releases upwards. This causes the hot air to recirculate rather than dissipate, which reduces efficiency.
Not enough clearance
Any landscaping or shaded structure should be at an adequate distance from your AC unit. Ideally, there should be a minimum of approximately one to two feet of clearance around it on each side. Vertical clearance should be at least five to six feet to allow the heat to escape. Without proper clearance, you may encounter airflow and overheating issues, even if the condenser is shaded.
Improper placement
While adding shade to your outdoor AC unit may be beneficial, if it’s not placed properly, this solution could backfire. Units located on the south or west-facing sides of your home are exposed to the most direct sunlight, and for the longest time during the day. If you’re getting a new air conditioner installed, consider placing the outdoor unit on the north-facing side whenever possible.
Best Practices for Shading an Outdoor HVAC Unit
Shading your AC should not void the warranty, as long as it’s done properly. Make sure you follow these best practices when shading your outdoor HVAC unit.
Use the right structure
If trees and shrubs aren’t an option, it’s important to use the correct type of artificial structure to shade your outdoor AC unit. Awnings or canopies placed directly over the unit can help block direct sunlight, but make sure they’re high enough above it to allow heat and humidity to escape.
Trellises or latticework also provide shade and privacy while maintaining good airflow. You can use vines or ivy on trellises to create a more natural shade and an attractive appearance. A pergola or shade sail is another good option that adds curb appeal while providing shade for your HVAC unit and your home at the same time.
Opt for natural shade
Trees and shrubs provide natural shade and work well, but they should be planted at least six to eight feet away from the outdoor condenser. Low-growing shrubs and bushes may help to cool the ground around the outdoor unit. Plant trees or shrubs with non-invasive root systems so they don’t damage the foundation of the unit or your home. Consider cherry, dogwood, pine, or magnolia trees.
If you plant trees around the unit, trim them regularly to maintain the recommended clearance and prevent branches and leaves from blocking the unit or getting into the fan blades.
Focus on clearance
No matter what type of shade you use, it must be at least two to three feet away from all sides of your AC unit and at least five to six feet above it. Never attempt to shade your outdoor unit with a fully enclosed structure, such as walls or solid covers, which restricts airflow and may cause overheating. Anything with an open design, such as a lattice or trellis, is best.
Practice routine maintenance
Regular seasonal maintenance is one of the best ways to protect your AC unit. Aside from annual inspections, cleanings, and tune-ups, also maintain the outdoor unit between routine maintenance calls. Remove excess dirt and debris, clean the fan blades, and remove any potential obstructions that could interfere with airflow. Inspect and clean the coils often to prevent clogs and blockages.
Contact Ricky Heath for AC Services
Adding shade to your outdoor AC unit may help improve energy efficiency and extend the system’s lifespan. The professionals at Ricky Heath Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling are available to service your air conditioner with care, speed, and quality. Contact us today to schedule AC maintenance or any of our other HVAC services.
