There are few things in Phoenix more necessary than a well-performing AC system. And while the necessity of having such a unit is not debatable, the placement of it can be. Whether to have your unit installed on the ground level or on the rooftop can be a hotly (no pun intended) debated topic, but the truth is there are pros and cons to each scenario. The answer to this dilemma comes down to a few key facts, so let’s examine those.

• It’s a bummer that this is even an issue, but the sad truth is that the security of your AC unit must be factored in. AC units and the copper inside them have become a hot commodity for thieves, so you need to ensure that if yours is installed on the ground, it is secure. Security is one of the reasons many people opt for rooftop AC units, as it’s more difficult for thieves to get their hands on them.
• The functionality of your unit is another big concern. Where will it perform the best – on the ground or on the roof? To answer this, you’ll need to consider the climate you’re in along with other factors. If your unit is in direct sunlight for most of the day (as it probably will be if it’s on the roof) it’s performance may suffer. AC units are more efficient when they’re on the ground, which is usually better protected from the sun (either from surrounding trees or the house itself). However, ground-based AC units can also be prone to damage from plant debris or animals.
• In terms of maintenance, units on the ground are often easier to care for. Not only are they more accessible (no ladder required), they are also in sight so you’re more likely to remember to do regular annual maintenance.
• Generally speaking, rooftop AC units require much less space than ground-based units. Air conditioners need ample clearance on all sides to ensure they can perform properly, so their footprint is much larger when they’re on the ground – which means it may impact your outdoor living space. On the roof, this isn’t usually a concern, and the unit will take up less room overall.
• A final consideration into the placement of your AC unit is how it will look once it’s installed. Take a look at the units attached to other homes in your neighborhood. Are they rooftop or ground-based AC units? If they’re all rooftop units, it may look a little strange for your house to be the only one with a unit on the ground. It may sound minor, but it may matter later on, especially if you plan on selling your home in the future.

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