Quote:
Originally Posted by retiredguy123
According to the Florida Solar Energy Center:
"We conclude that any savings produced by localized AC condenser shading are quite modest (<3%) and that the risk of interrupting air flow to the condenser may outweigh shading considerations. The preferred strategy may be a long-term one: locating AC condensers in an unobstructed location on the shaded north side of buildings and depending on extensive site and neighborhood-level landscaping to lower localized air temperatures."
I would also point out that a 3.5 foot high fence will not provide much shading during the hottest part of the day. The fence would need to be higher and far enough away from the condenser to prevent air flow restrictions. Air flow is more important than shading.
|
This contradicts itself. On one hand, it's saying shade wouldn’t produce any savings and on the other hand, it's saying to put it on the north side in the SHADE. HUH?
Moving it to the north side is not logistically possible, it’s a courtyard villa.
The house's plastic fence shades it from the east but the condenser is in between the two villas so as the sun moves west there is about a 3-hour time frame when it’s baking in the sun of course this is the hottest part of the day so 3 hours may not sound like much but it makes a difference.
I had no intention of putting some sun barrier too close to the unit as I realize it needs airflow for heat transfer.
On my unit, the fan is on top so that is where most of the heat transfer is taking place.
It's not only about monthly cost savings but trying to preserve the unit and not work harder than it needs to be.
I guess after paying $5000 for a new unit last year unexpectedly I’m being a little conservative.
Thanks for the idea Village Tinker.