Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. 806 Air-Conditioning Systems The location of the condensing unit is important. The suction and liquid lines and electrical power lines should be as short as possible. The condensing unit should be carefully located: • Away from bedrooms, patios, and neighbors (to minimize noise pollution). • At least 24″ (61 cm) away from walls (for air circulation and adequate work space). • Away from inside corners (for air circulation). • Not under eaves (to not obstruct airflow). Figure 32-14 shows acceptable and unacceptable locations for a condensing unit. If possible, a condens- ing unit should be placed along the north side of a build- ing, where it will enjoy shade throughout the day and not endure the heat load of the sun. A condensing unit should be mounted level, and with the proper clearances around the unit. Figure 32-15 shows a typical condensing unit and the required clearances around the unit. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for locating the con- densing unit. 32.4.2 Installing an Evaporator An evaporator must be mounted level and solidly in the furnace bonnet or plenum chamber. The design of the evaporator and its condensate drain depend on the type of furnace (upflow, downflow, or horizontal flow). Remov- able panels are installed in the plenum or chamber so the evaporator can be accessed for periodic cleaning and ser- vicing as required. Preventing Refrigerant Theft A condensing unit that is in plain sight or monitored by security cameras can discourage refrigerant theft. Another method of prevention is the installation of access valve locks. These devices are installed on the access valves of service valves. Keys and tools used to unlock these devices should only be made available to homeowners and HVACR service technicians. Many locks are color coded to indicate the type of refrigerant charge, Figure 32-16. Pro Tip Bedroom Bedroom BA Living room/dining room Kitchen 2 4 5 1 Bedroom 3 Goodheart-Willcox Publisher Figure 32-14. Choose a location for an outdoor air-cooled condensing unit for best airflow and least noise. Locations 1 and 2 are good locations. Location 3 is not recommended because it is in a pocket where there would be restricted airflow and is also too near a bedroom. Locations 4 and 5 are also too near bedrooms.