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HVAC glossary
Outdoor unit
The outdoor unit is the part of a heat pump or air conditioner installed outside, housing the compressor, fan and heat exchanger.
The outdoor unit extracts heat from outdoor air (in heating mode) or rejects it outside (in cooling mode). It houses the compressor, fan, heat exchanger and control electronics, so its location affects efficiency, noise and ease of service.
What we consider when choosing the position:
- air circulation – the manufacturer’s clearances are needed around the unit so that air is not recirculated;
- snow and ice – in winter the unit is mounted on brackets or a plinth above snow level, and condensate must drain safely;
- noise – the unit should not be next to a bedroom window or a neighbour’s boundary; dB(A) noise data are given on the model pages;
- pipe length – the distance to the indoor unit must fit within the manufacturer’s limits;
- service access and the look of the façade.
On the coldest days a heat pump outdoor unit periodically defrosts its coil – this is normal. Our specialists inspect the site and propose the unit position and mounting solution so the system runs reliably all year round.