Best Placement for Ductless Heat Pump Outdoor Unit — Vancouver Guide
Published: July 21, 2026 — BC Wide Home Services Ltd, doing business as BC Wide Heating & Air Conditioning — Greater Vancouver, BC
Location Considerations
The outdoor unit should be installed on the north or east side of the home for optimal efficiency. South and west sides get intense afternoon sun in summer, reducing cooling efficiency. Avoid locations near bedrooms (for noise) or where snow accumulates. Maintain 12-24 inches clearance on all sides.
Mounting Options
Ground-mounted units sit on a concrete pad — most stable, easiest for service. Wall-mounted units (using a bracket) save ground space but transmit more vibration into the building. Roof-mounted units are possible but require structural assessment. For Vancouver, ground mounting is preferred in most cases.
Distance from Indoor Unit
The maximum line set length between outdoor and indoor units varies by brand (typically 50-100 feet). Longer line sets reduce efficiency and require additional refrigerant. Plan the outdoor unit location to minimize the line set run. Pre-charged line sets have fixed lengths — measure carefully before ordering.