Where Is the Best Place to Store Your HVAC Equipment in Your Home?

David Rampey ·

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When planning to build a new house or to undertake a major renovation, be sure to discuss with your architect or builder their plans for the home's HVAC system. Too many homeowners take it on trust that the builder or architect is giving prime consideration to the location of the HVAC system, but you'd be amazed how often that's not the case.

Unfortunately, some builders do not necessarily understand good HVAC design and wait until the home is under construction to slap the HVAC on as an afterthought. No wonder so many systems fail to deliver their maximum potential. Be sure to bring your trusted HVAC consultant in during the planning stage for your new home or renovation.

Here are a few basics to think about when installing HVAC equipment:

Where Does Your HVAC System Go?

The most common type of HVAC system is central air conditioning and heating. Here's where the components are usually located:

  1. Ductwork. Ductwork is usually located in the attic, the basement, or in a dropped ceiling chase.

  2. Condenser. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner should be close to the house — about 2 feet away — with lines for refrigerant and wiring running from it into the house. To promote good airflow, it should be at least 2 feet from shrubbery and other structures.

  3. Evaporator Coils, Furnace, and Air Handler. Evaporator coils are where the air is cooled, while the furnace is where the air is heated. The air handler blows conditioned air through the ductwork for distribution. These components are usually in an interior cabinet in a hall, in the attic, or in the basement.

For a heat pump, the installation plan will be similar to central, except there will be no furnace, since heat pumps heat and cool by moving refrigerant in and out of the house.

As the name implies, no ductwork is installed with a ductless mini split. The condenser should be located a few feet from the home, where airflow will not be affected. Air handlers will be mounted on walls, the ceiling, the floor, or on shelves.

For more on installing HVAC equipment, contact Air Assurance of Broken Arrow.