All outdoor units should be located in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, with consideration given to the following items:

• Keep outdoor units away from fences, walls, and other surfaces to allow unimpeded air flow around the unit (i.e. to avoid the creation of a microclimate that negatively impacts heat pump performance and efficiency).

• Where manufacturer's literature does not provide clearance recommendations, ensure enough clearance based on site and system type. For example, the following minimum distances from obstructions should be maintained in case of mini-split systems:
  • 500 mm between air inlet and outlet faces
  • 600 mm above the unit
  • 600 mm service access
  • 150 mm to other faces
• Positions that get full sun in the winter are preferable.
• Keep refrigerant pipe run lengths and bends at minimum level (follow manufacturer's instructions if given).
• Minimize the length of refrigerant lines outside the conditioned space.
  
• Ensure easy drainage of condensate.
• To ensure correct defrost system operation, protect from winter winds using trees or other vegetation, wind baffles, or the positioning relative to the home.

Do Not Locate Outdoor Units

• Where operating noise may disturb home occupants or neighbors.
• Under the house or a deck, or any location that may impede airflow.
• Below a window where the unit has a vertical discharge.
• Where multiple outdoor units are competing for airflow.
• Close to hot building exhaust air (e.g. clothes dryer vent), or where heat is generated by other equipment, or in locations where pavement or masonry materials produce a high ambient temperature.

• Where people pass (i.e. close to an accessway or path) since freezing discharge can pose a slip hazard
• On a balcony or deck that is more than 1 m above a surface below in a way that facilitates climbing over any nearby railings. In addition, any screen around the outdoor unit must not facilitate climbing and must not include toe holes.