Do you know that the placement of a wall-mounted air conditioner plays a major role? A high-quality unit can even struggle if you install it in the wrong spot. Proper placement ensures you get the desired results.
It helps cool your space more quickly, saving on energy bills. Besides, the right placement helps to increase the life span. Here’s what experts think about the best placement for wall-mounted air conditioners.
How to Ensure the Best Placement for Wall-mounted Air Conditioners?
What is the Ideal Height and Position for Installing Wall-mounted ACs?
It’s best to install wall-hanging ACs 7 to 8 feet from the floor. This helps to spread the air throughout the room. We all know air naturally moves downward.
Placing the unit too low can be the reason for uneven cooling. Installing it too high may reduce efficiency. This is why position is the most important factor to ensure the cool air reaches every corner of the space.
Avoid Direct Sunlight and Heat Sources
You should keep the units away from direct sunlight. The NHS mentioned to us that extreme heat can affect overall performance. If your units are exposed to sunlight, they work harder to maintain the temperature.
As a result, the AC starts consuming high amounts of electricity. Besides, don’t install your wall-mounted AC near heat appliances. Heat sources like an oven or stove can confuse the thermostat. The system may run longer than necessary.
Keep Airflow Clear
You have to place the units in such a way that the air can flow without obstruction. Don’t install it behind furniture or curtains.
Make sure there is enough space in front of the unit. So that the AC can distribute cool air evenly across the room. It helps you to avoid any hotspots.
Choose the Right Wall
How to select the right wall for wall-hanging ACs? It’s best to install it on a wall that faces the center of the room.
Avoid installing it directly above seating or sleeping areas. Or the air will directly blow onto people. This can feel uncomfortable over time. For the bedroom, install the unit above the bed, but slightly offset.
Consider Room Layout and Size
The placement of your AC must match the layout of your room. What does it mean? For a larger room, select a space that can cover the widest area possible. For a smaller room, center placement works best.
Does your room have multiple sections or obstacles? Consider how the air will flow around them. It will help to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the room.
Outdoor Unit Placement Matters Too
Placement of the outdoor unit is also important for wall-mounted ACs. It’s best to install it in a shaded and well-ventilated area.
It helps you to avoid overheating. If the outdoor temperature is not overheated, the overall work efficiency improves. Besides, keeping it away from dust, debris, and direct sunlight helps to avoid frequent repair.
Case Study: A homeowner wanted more cool air distributed evenly throughout their living room.
The Problem
Despite having a quality wall-mounted air conditioner, their living room was hit with hot and cold spots. It seemed to constantly run without the room ever feeling cool enough.
The unit was installed directly above the corner of a large sofa and beside a window with intense afternoon sun. They also noticed their energy bill was quite high for such a small room.
The Solution:
They called an HVAC technician to check if anything was wrong with the installation. He quickly spotted that it was in the wrong place. He moved it to a central wall facing the rest of the room and away from direct sunlight. He hung it around 7.5 feet from the ground to help with air circulation.
The Results:
They were amazed by the difference:
- It cooled more evenly throughout the room
- Turned on less and consumed less energy
- No longer blew air directly on people in the room
- Quieter than before
Moral of the Story: Don’t assume that all you need is a good wall-mounted air conditioner. If you don’t place it in the right spot, you’ll experience reduced efficiency, comfort, and higher running costs.
FAQs
Where should you not put a wall-mounted air conditioner?
Avoid corners facing away from where people spend time. You also want to avoid placing it above a bed or sofa.
How high should you mount a wall air conditioner?
Around 7-8 feet from the ground is ideal for air distribution.
Can you mount an AC above the bed?
No, you shouldn’t mount it above furniture that people sit or lay on. You don’t want the cold air blowing directly on anyone.
Does the sun impact air conditioner efficiency?
Yep. Just like outdoor units, keeping them out of the direct sunlight helps reduce energy consumption.
Where should I put my outdoor unit?
Make sure it’s not placed in direct sunlight. It should be somewhere shaded and well ventilated.
Final Thoughts
A well-placed unit cools faster and runs more efficiently. It provides better comfort for your home. By considering factors like height, airflow, sunlight, and room layout, you can get the most out of your AC.
