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    KrysFL's Avatar
    KrysFL Posts: 2, Reputation: 1
    New Member
    		  
    #1

    Jun 25, 2009, 01:53 PM
    Covering/Shading AC Unit
    I have heard mixed reviews on whether the outside AC unit should be shaded and/or covered.

    I live in FL and twice we have had to have wires replaced because they were completely rotted by the sun and then got too hot and blown a fuse.

    Currently our unit is on the eastside of the house and there is no shade that covers it from the beating sun.

    I have been told that covering the unit (building a shade canopy) will make it last longer as the sun's direct contact decreases the life of the outside unit.
    I understand that there needs to be enough room on the sides and the top to allow for proper airflow.

    Any comments about this? Everything I read online has more to do with shading the surrounding air to increase efficiency but not really to increase longevity by keeping it out of the sun.

    Your replies/thoughts are greatly appreciated! :)
    KrysFL's Avatar
    KrysFL Posts: 2, Reputation: 1
    New Member
    		  
    #2

    Jun 25, 2009, 01:54 PM

    Sorry, I meant it is on the westside (not sure if this makes a difference of not).
    hvac1000's Avatar
    hvac1000 Posts: 14,540, Reputation: 435
    Heating & Air Conditioning Expert
    		  
    #3

    Jun 25, 2009, 02:04 PM
    Actually all A/C units are designed to run with or without direct sunlight. The problem with shading is it is possible the air discharged from the unit will be recirculated and that is a BIG problem. My unit has sat in the sun since 1978 with no ill effects except I have to paint the unit a couple of times.

    If the correct wire cable/cable cover was used the sun will have NO effect on it since it is sunlight approved material.
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