full sun vs shade

[joeyjoey]

What's a better placement for the outside compressor - full sun with with no bushes/trees to restrict air flow or shade from low trees that might limit air flow a little?

My condenser just sits in the sun all day and I'm thinking about planting some trees to provide some shade but heard there may be some airflow issues with doing that.

[HVAC Pro]

Studies have shown it makes no difference whether it's in the shade or direct sunlight.

[gas1]

it makes little diff but do you like standing in the sun or shade shade is better

[smngmu]

The condensors job is to remove heat acquired from the conditioned space(house).Although bushes and the like are helpful in providing shade, the leaves and vines have a tendency to clog or block the coils,thereby defeating the purpose. Shading with trees is more viable BUT certain trees drop needles or leaves which can cause the same effect.Any shading by either has it's benefits as well as draw backs.Trees placed to provide shade should not be directly overhead and should be placed as far away as necessary to provide shading without interferring with the normal air flow produced by the condensor fan itself.Trees that provide shade should be tall enough to allow air circulation from breezes or wind to help in the flow.As well,trees placed to shade the condensor will also provide shade to the home which would cut down the heat load applied to it.

[HVAC Pro]

gas1, Condensers are inanimate and have no feelings. Do you have scientific data to reinforce your opinion?

[Carnak]

Well consider a roof, lots of sun, heats up the surroundings, higher ambient.

[star882]

Originally posted by HVAC Pro
gas1, Condensers are inanimate and have no feelings. Do you have scientific data to reinforce your opinion?
I think the real issue is the technician (most people prefer working in shade as opposed to sun). Of course, he/she might actually like the sun.

[smngmu]

Originally posted by star882

Originally posted by HVAC Pro
gas1, Condensers are inanimate and have no feelings. Do you have scientific data to reinforce your opinion?
I think the real issue is the technician (most people prefer working in shade as opposed to sun). Of course, he/she might actually like the sun.
I don't prefer the sun actually.From a purely PROFESSIONAL view, what I have to say and THINK about it are from a purely scientific standpoint.You have a condensor outside to release the heat acquired from inside the home.When you subject it to more heat,it gets worse.If you just ran a marathon,would YOU cool down faster in the shade or back out in the sun? IF you actually get outside to mow your own grass,do you go to the shade to cool off or do you stand out in the sun? Wait - from your previous response,My question has been answered.

[HVAC Pro]

Give me shade. Under a palm tree. Tropical drink. Hula skirts.

I doubt my condenser cares. lol.

[re2ell]

a condenser shaded from the sun will at least maintain its' appearence longer and not suffer from sun damage to the painted surfaces.

for that reason, i locate my condenser on the north side of the house.

[mjk_na]

My preference. Shade. Materials last longer in protected environment. Plus, your contractors will be happier to work in the shade, rather than in hot sun. I would like to think that I'll get one-step-higher quality workmanship from it ;).

[k-fridge]

The important factor to the condenser is the outside air temperature. Even though it may feel cooler to a human while standing in the shade due to the sunlight being partly blocked, the air temperature is tha same as it is a few feet away in the direct sun. I doubt shade will make any significant difference in the actual operation of a condenser.

Too many trees or bushes around the condenser can actually restrict airflow in the area which can cause a buildup of heat surrounding the condenser. This would hamper performance instead of helping it. Be sure the condenser is in an area where there's plenty of free space to breath.