Normally, you wouldn’t worry about your outdoor air conditioning system if it’s keeping your home cool and comfortable. However, do you sometimes wonder how you can lower its energy consumption without affecting its performance? This is possible if your outdoor unit has some shade, and it can make a difference in its overall energy efficiency.
To understand how much you can save by shading your unit, HVAC Construction, Inc. explains what you need to know.
Is Shading Your AC Worth It?
When the outdoor air conditioning unit is shaded, the air around it becomes cooler. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, doing so can improve efficiency by as much as 10 percent, especially if installed near trees.
How to Effectively Shade Your Unit
An outdoor AC unit installed in a shaded environment works more efficiently. If you want to effectively make use of shading, most professional HVAC contractors suggest using an awning or a few nearby trees. You can also make use of shrubs and bushes as long as they don’t block the airflow. Placing the unit on the northern side of your home is also recommended since this side stays the coolest throughout the day.
Other Ways to Increase AC Efficiency
Keep in mind that when you shade your outdoor unit, you’re only reducing the heat hitting its exterior. This cover is designed to take the heat even in full sunlight, so the difference you get when shading it won’t immediately be noticeable. Of course, there are other ways to increase energy efficiency, such as keeping your air filter clean, making sure there aren’t leaks in your ductwork and getting regular maintenance checks.
If you’re looking for a trusted professional for a maintenance check or searching online for HVAC construction pros, our team at HVAC Construction, Inc. always has you covered. If you live in Salt Lake City or the surrounding area, call us today at (801) 298-4822! You can also fill out our online request form.
