Wall Bracket VS Ground Pad: Which Is Best for Your AC Outdoor Unit?
Nov 18, 2025|
View:191Installing an air conditioning system involves a critical decision that many homeowners overlook: choosing between a wall bracket for AC unit or a pad for outdoor AC unit. This choice affects system performance, maintenance costs, and equipment longevity. The global HVAC mounting solutions market continues to expand, with wall-mounted systems gaining popularity in urban areas while ground installations remain standard in suburban settings. Both air conditioner outdoor unit brackets and condenser pads offer distinct advantages depending on installation requirements.
This guide helps property owners quickly determine which mounting solution fits their project requirements.
Key Takeaways
- Wall brackets for AC units are ideal for space-limited properties and flood-prone areas where elevation provides protection.
- Condenser pads excel in properties with adequate ground space and easy maintenance access requirements.
- Air conditioner outdoor unit brackets offer superior protection from ground-level hazards like flooding and snow accumulation.
- Ground pads for outdoor AC units provide simpler installation and lower upfront costs for most residential applications.
- Both mounting solutions support proper airflow when installed with correct clearances and professional techniques.
- Wall-mounted installations require structural assessment to ensure safe weight support for the condensing unit.
- Climate conditions significantly influence the best choice between wall brackets and ground-level condenser pads.
- Professional installation ensures optimal performance regardless of whether wall brackets or ground pads are selected.
Wall Bracket Basics
Wall Bracket Construction
Air conditioner outdoor unit brackets feature engineered construction designed to support heavy loads securely. Manufacturers produce these brackets using heavy-duty steel or powder-coated aluminum, then reinforce them with cross-bracing for stability. This process creates a durable mounting platform suitable for residential and light commercial applications. The bracket design must accommodate the specific dimensions and weight of the condensing unit. Most residential wall brackets support units weighing 80 to 300 pounds, with commercial-grade options handling heavier equipment.
Bracket designs include:
| Type of Bracket | Weight Capacity | Construction Features |
Standard Residential | 80-150 lbs | Basic L-bracket with 2-4 mounting points |
Heavy-Duty Residential | 150-250 lbs | Reinforced frame with 4-6 mounting points, anti-vibration pads |
Commercial Grade | 250-500 lbs | Thick steel construction with welded reinforcements, multiple anchoring systems |
Adjustable Bracket | 100-200 lbs | Telescoping arms for flexible positioning |
Universal Bracket | 80-300 lbs | Multiple hole patterns to fit various unit sizes |
Wall Bracket Features
Wall bracket for AC unit installations provide several performance advantages in specific applications. The elevated position protects equipment from ground-level threats such as flooding, snow accumulation, and lawn equipment damage. Steel construction with powder coating resists rust and corrosion in coastal or humid climates. Anti-vibration pads integrated into quality brackets reduce noise transmission into the building structure.
Space efficiency remains a primary advantage, with brackets freeing ground areas for landscaping or outdoor activities. The elevated position naturally promotes better air circulation around the unit. Modern brackets include built-in leveling adjustments to ensure proper condensate drainage.
| Feature | Description |
Elevation Protection | Raises unit 12-36 inches above ground, protecting from floods and snow |
Space Optimization | Frees valuable ground space in small yards or urban properties |
Structural Design | Heavy-gauge steel or aluminum with powder-coated finish for weather resistance |
Vibration Dampening | Rubber or neoprene pads reduce operational noise and vibration transfer |
Adjustability | Leveling mechanisms ensure proper unit positioning and drainage |
Accessibility | Some designs allow easier access to top and sides of unit for maintenance |
Security | Elevated mounting can deter theft or vandalism in accessible areas |
Aesthetic Options | Low-profile designs minimize visual impact on building exteriors |
Wall Bracket Applications
Property owners select air conditioner outdoor unit brackets for various installation scenarios. The mounting solution excels in urban townhouses where ground space is at a premium. Multi-story buildings benefit from brackets that position units near the indoor air handler, reducing refrigerant line length. Flood-prone properties use elevated mounting to protect equipment from water damage.
Common applications include:
- Townhouses with limited yard space
- Basement or ground-floor installations requiring elevation
- Properties with frequent flooding or standing water
- Small urban lots where ground space is valuable
- Installations on buildings without accessible ground mounting locations
- Areas with heavy snow accumulation that would block ground-level units
Note: Wall bracket installations require professional assessment of wall structure to ensure adequate load-bearing capacity.
Ground Pad Overview
Condenser Pad Structure
Condenser pads provide a stable, level platform for outdoor condensing units at ground level. Manufacturers produce these pads using three primary materials: poured concrete, composite plastic, or dense rubber. Concrete pads offer maximum stability and longevity. Composite pads resist cracking and remain lightweight for easier positioning. Rubber pads provide excellent vibration dampening. Standard residential pads measure 24" x 24" to 36" x 36", with thickness ranging from 2 to 4 inches. The pad design includes a textured top surface to prevent unit sliding and drainage channels to manage rainwater runoff.
| Manufacturer | Material Type | Standard Dimensions |
Concrete (Poured) | Reinforced Concrete | Custom sizes, typically 3-4" thick |
Composite | High-Density Plastic | 24" x 24" x 2", 30" x 30" x 2.5", 36" x 36" x 3" |
Rubber Composite | Recycled Rubber | 24" x 24" x 0.5", 36" x 36" x 0.75" |
Tip: Composite and rubber pads offer easier installation compared to poured concrete while providing adequate support for most residential units.
Condenser Pad Features
Pads for outdoor AC units deliver reliable ground-level support with several performance characteristics. The solid base prevents equipment from sinking into soil during heavy rain or ground settling. Quality pads resist cracking from freeze-thaw cycles in cold climates. Composite materials will not deteriorate from prolonged ground moisture contact. The level surface ensures proper condensate drainage and prevents compressor damage from tilting.
Ground pads provide straightforward installation without structural modifications to buildings. The materials resist oil and refrigerant spills common in HVAC operations. UV-resistant composite pads maintain structural integrity under constant sun exposure.
- Stable platform prevents unit settling or tilting
- Elevates equipment 2-4 inches above ground for drainage
- Resists cracking, warping, and moisture damage
- Non-slip textured surface prevents unit movement
- Easy to install without special tools or structural work
- Lightweight composite options for simple positioning
- UV and chemical resistant materials for longevity
Condenser Pad Applications
Contractors specify condenser pads for ground-level installations across residential and commercial properties. The mounting solution works well in suburban homes with adequate yard space and level ground. Single-story buildings typically use ground pads for convenient unit placement near electrical service and indoor equipment.
| Application Type | Description |
Residential Homes | Standard ground-level installations in yards with adequate space |
Side Yard Installations | Units positioned alongside houses with proper clearances |
Backyard Placements | Locations away from living spaces to minimize noise |
Commercial Buildings | Ground-level equipment for easy service access |
New Construction | Standard specification for most new HVAC installations |
Replacement Projects | Maintaining existing ground-level mounting configurations |
Multi-Unit Properties | Individual pads for each condensing unit in apartments or condos |
Tip: Ground-level condenser pad installations provide the most accessible option for routine maintenance and service calls.
Installation Comparison
Mounting Requirements
Wall bracket installation demands careful structural assessment. Contractors must locate solid framing members capable of supporting 150-300 pounds of dynamic weight. Brick and concrete walls provide ideal mounting surfaces with appropriate anchors. Wood-framed walls require attachment to studs or blocking, with reinforcement for heavier units. Vinyl siding necessitates removal or cutting to access solid backing material.
Ground pad installation requires proper site preparation. The area must be level within 1/4 inch over 24 inches. Contractors excavate 2-4 inches of soil, then compact a gravel base. Poured concrete pads need additional time for curing before equipment placement.
| Installation Aspect | Wall Bracket | Ground Pad |
Site Preparation | Wall structure assessment, finding studs/blocking | Ground leveling, excavation, gravel base |
Structural Requirements | Load-bearing wall capacity 200-400 lbs | Level, stable ground with drainage |
Installation Time | 2-4 hours including mounting and unit placement | 1-3 hours (concrete pads require 24-48 hour cure time) |
Tools Required | Drill, level, wrenches, possibly masonry bits | Shovel, level, tamper, wheelbarrow for concrete |
Difficulty Level | Moderate to difficult, requires structural knowledge | Easy to moderate, suitable for DIY |
Permanent Modifications | Mounting holes in wall structure | Minimal, ground area can be restored |
Labor Costs
Professional installation costs vary significantly between mounting methods. Wall bracket installations typically range from $200-600 for labor, depending on wall material and accessibility. Brick or concrete mounting requires masonry anchors and specialized drilling equipment. Second-story installations increase costs due to scaffolding or lift equipment requirements.
Ground pad installations cost $100-300 for professional labor. Concrete pads add material costs of $50-100 but require simple mixing and pouring skills. Composite pad installations take less time, reducing labor expenses.
| Cost Component | Wall Bracket | Ground Pad |
Bracket/Pad Material | $100-300 | $30-150 |
Professional Labor | $200-600 | $100-300 |
Additional Materials | Anchors, hardware ($20-50) | Gravel, concrete ($30-80) |
Total Installation Cost | $320-950 | $160-530 |
DIY Feasibility
Homeowners with construction experience can install ground pads successfully. The process involves basic excavation, leveling, and positioning skills. Composite pads simplify the project by eliminating concrete mixing. Ground-level work requires no ladder use or overhead lifting.
Wall bracket installation presents greater challenges for DIYers. Proper structural assessment requires understanding of building construction. Incorrect mounting can result in equipment failure or building damage. Lifting heavy condensing units to bracket height demands two or more people and proper safety equipment.
Tip: Ground pad installation suits confident DIYers, while wall bracket mounting typically requires professional expertise for safety and warranty compliance.
Performance Comparison
Space Efficiency
Air conditioner outdoor unit brackets maximize usable ground area. Urban properties benefit significantly from vertical mounting that preserves limited yard space. The freed area becomes available for gardens, patios, or walkways. Properties with narrow side yards find wall mounting enables code-compliant clearances impossible at ground level.
Ground pads require dedicated surface area of 9-16 square feet including mandatory clearances. Units must maintain minimum distances from walls, plants, and other structures. In spacious suburban yards, this footprint poses no constraint.
| Property Type | Best Mounting Solution | Space Consideration |
Urban Townhouse | Wall Bracket | Extremely limited ground space |
Suburban Home | Ground Pad | Adequate yard area available |
Condo/Apartment | Wall Bracket | Shared outdoor spaces, balcony mounting |
Small Lot House | Wall Bracket | Maximize usable yard space |
Large Property | Ground Pad | Space not a limiting factor |
Protection from Elements
Elevated wall mounting provides superior defense against specific environmental threats. Units installed 12-36 inches above grade avoid flood damage during heavy rain events. Snow accumulation around ground-level equipment can block airflow or cause physical damage. Lawn care equipment poses zero risk to wall-mounted units.
Ground-level installations remain vulnerable to flooding, snow drifts, and accidental impacts. Properties in low-lying areas or regions with heavy snowfall face increased risk of equipment damage. However, proper pad elevation of 2-4 inches provides basic protection from standing water.
| Environmental Factor | Wall Bracket Performance | Ground Pad Performance |
Flooding Protection | Excellent - elevates above typical flood levels | Fair - minimal elevation, vulnerable to significant flooding |
Snow Accumulation | Excellent - above snow drift height | Poor - can be buried or blocked |
Debris/Leaves | Good - reduced accumulation | Moderate - requires regular clearing |
Lawn Equipment Damage | Excellent - out of mower/trimmer range | Poor - exposed to accidental impacts |
Ground Moisture | Excellent - no ground contact | Fair - pad prevents direct contact but humidity exposure |
Airflow and Cooling Efficiency
Both mounting methods support adequate airflow when installed correctly. Wall brackets naturally provide unrestricted air circulation beneath the unit. However, installers must maintain 12-18 inches of rear clearance from the wall surface to prevent recirculation of hot discharge air.
Ground-level pads offer excellent side and top airflow access. The 2-4 inch elevation prevents grass and ground debris from blocking bottom vents. Units positioned away from walls and obstructions operate at peak efficiency.
Proper clearances matter more than mounting method for cooling performance. Building codes and manufacturers specify minimum distances: 12 inches from walls, 24 inches on service side, 60 inches overhead clearance. Both wall brackets and ground pads achieve these requirements with appropriate installation.
Tip: Cooling efficiency depends on maintaining manufacturer-specified clearances regardless of wall or ground mounting.
Maintenance Access
Ground-level installations offer superior maintenance accessibility. Technicians work at comfortable heights without ladders or lifts. All service panels, electrical connections, and refrigerant ports remain easily reachable. Routine tasks like coil cleaning and filter changes take less time at ground level.
Wall-mounted units require ladder access for most maintenance procedures. Service technicians charge additional fees for elevated work in some markets. However, the cleaner operating environment of elevated units may reduce maintenance frequency.
| Maintenance Task | Wall Bracket Access | Ground Pad Access |
Coil Cleaning | Requires ladder, moderate difficulty | Easy, waist-height access |
Electrical Work | Challenging, overhead work on ladder | Comfortable, ground-level access |
Refrigerant Service | Difficult, requires stable ladder position | Easy, standard working height |
Visual Inspection | Good, elevated view of unit | Excellent, all sides accessible |
Filter Changes | Requires ladder for each change | Simple, no ladder needed |
Vibration and Noise
Modern wall brackets incorporate vibration isolation to minimize noise transmission. Quality mounts include rubber or neoprene pads between bracket and wall. When properly installed with isolation materials, wall-mounted units operate quietly despite structural connection.
Ground pads excel at vibration dampening, particularly rubber and composite materials. The separation from building foundation prevents operational vibrations from traveling through structure. Neighbors and occupants experience less noise with ground-level installations using quality vibration-dampening pads.
Improper wall bracket installation without vibration isolation creates significant noise problems. The structural connection amplifies compressor and fan vibrations throughout the building. Ground pads avoid this issue through natural isolation from building structure.
Durability and Longevity
Weather Resistance
Air conditioner outdoor unit brackets constructed from powder-coated steel or aluminum resist rust and corrosion. Quality brackets maintain structural integrity through years of rain, snow, and sun exposure. Coastal installations benefit from stainless steel or marine-grade aluminum that withstands salt air. However, brackets require periodic inspection for coating damage or rust formation.
Condenser pads demonstrate excellent weather resistance across material types. Composite pads resist cracking from freeze-thaw cycles better than concrete. UV-stabilized plastics maintain strength despite constant sun exposure. Concrete pads may develop surface cracks over time but continue providing adequate support. Rubber pads resist moisture and chemical exposure while maintaining vibration dampening properties.
| Material Type | Typical Lifespan | Weather Performance |
Steel Wall Bracket | 15-20 years | Good with proper coating maintenance |
Aluminum Wall Bracket | 20-25 years | Excellent, naturally corrosion-resistant |
Concrete Pad | 20-30 years | Excellent, may develop cosmetic cracks |
Composite Plastic Pad | 15-25 years | Excellent, resists cracking and UV damage |
Rubber Pad | 10-15 years | Good, may degrade faster in extreme sun |
Load-Bearing Stability
Wall brackets maintain stable support when properly installed in solid framing. The mounting system transfers equipment weight directly to structural members. Over time, vibration can loosen mounting hardware, requiring periodic tightening. Improper installation in weak wall sections results in bracket failure and equipment damage.
Ground pads provide stable support through direct ground contact. Properly prepared bases prevent settling and tilting. Concrete pads offer maximum stability with no settling under load. Composite pads on compacted gravel maintain levelness for decades. Inadequate site preparation leads to gradual settling and equipment misalignment.
| Stability Factor | Wall Bracket | Ground Pad |
Initial Stability | Excellent if properly anchored | Excellent on prepared base |
Long-term Settling | Minimal, depends on wall structure | Minimal with proper base preparation |
Vibration Resistance | Good with isolation pads | Excellent with rubber or composite materials |
Adjustment Capability | Limited, difficult to modify after installation | Easy to shim or releveled if needed |
Equipment Protection
Elevated wall mounting protects condensing units from multiple damage sources. Units avoid contact with ground moisture that accelerates corrosion of base panels and mounting feet. Rodents find elevated units more difficult to access for nesting. The mounting position reduces accumulation of dirt, leaves, and debris that degrade performance.
Ground-level installations expose equipment to more environmental stressors. Direct ground proximity increases humidity exposure and potential for base panel rust. Small animals occasionally nest beneath or inside ground-level units. However, quality condenser pads elevate units enough to prevent most ground contact issues.
Climate Considerations
Cold Climate Performance
Wall brackets provide significant advantages in regions with heavy snowfall. Elevated mounting positions units above typical snow accumulation depths. Snow drifts that would bury ground-level equipment leave wall-mounted units accessible and operational. Ice formation around the base poses less risk to elevated installations.
Ground-level condenser pads face challenges in snowy climates. Units may become partially or completely buried during heavy snowfall events. Homeowners must clear snow away from equipment to maintain operation. Ice can form around pad edges, potentially causing ground heave and unit misalignment.
| Climate Factor | Wall Bracket Advantage | Ground Pad Challenge |
Heavy Snowfall | Remains above snow line | Can be buried, blocking airflow |
Ice Formation | Minimal base ice problems | Ground frost heave potential |
Winter Access | Easy to reach for snow clearing | Difficult to clear around buried unit |
Drainage | Elevated, no ice damming | Ice can block drainage |
Hot and Humid Climate Performance
Humid climates present different considerations. Wall-mounted units benefit from air circulation around all sides, promoting faster drying after rain. However, sun exposure on south or west-facing walls can create higher ambient temperatures around the unit. Heat reflection from building surfaces may slightly reduce efficiency.
Ground-level pads perform well in humid regions when properly positioned. Adequate clearances allow natural air circulation. Shaded locations protect equipment from direct sun while maintaining cooling efficiency. Ground proximity increases humidity exposure but quality equipment handles these conditions within design specifications.
Coastal Environment Performance
Salt air and high humidity make coastal installations demanding. Wall brackets using stainless steel or marine-grade aluminum provide best durability. Regular washing removes salt deposits that accelerate corrosion. Elevated mounting reduces salt spray exposure compared to ground level.
Condenser pads in coastal areas benefit from composite materials that resist salt corrosion better than concrete. Ground-level units experience more direct salt spray exposure. However, both mounting methods require diligent maintenance in coastal environments to maximize equipment lifespan.
Making the Right Choice
Property Assessment
Property characteristics determine the optimal mounting solution. Homeowners should evaluate available space, wall structure, ground conditions, and local climate. Small urban lots with limited yard space favor wall bracket installations. Suburban properties with adequate ground area find ground pads more practical and economical.
Wall structure assessment proves critical for bracket installations. Brick, concrete block, and solid wood framing support wall-mounted units safely. Vinyl siding over foam board insulation requires backing reinforcement. Older buildings need professional evaluation to confirm adequate structural capacity.
Ground conditions affect pad performance. Level, well-drained areas suit ground installations. Sloped yards require excavation and base preparation. Areas with high water tables or poor drainage benefit from elevated wall mounting.
| Property Characteristic | Favors Wall Bracket | Favors Ground Pad |
Small Yard | ✓ | |
Large Property | ✓ | |
Solid Wall Structure | ✓ | |
Weak Wall/Siding | ✓ | |
Level Ground | ✓ | |
Sloped Yard | ✓ | |
Flood-Prone Area | ✓ | |
Heavy Snow Region | ✓ | |
Easy Ground Access | ✓ |
Budget Considerations
Initial installation costs influence many mounting decisions. Ground pads offer lower total installation expense for most residential applications. Material costs range from $30-150, with installation labor of $100-300. Total investment typically stays under $500 for professional installation.
Wall brackets require higher upfront investment. Bracket costs of $100-300 plus installation labor of $200-600 result in total costs of $320-950. Complex installations in brick or second-story locations increase expenses further.
Long-term costs should factor into the decision. Wall-mounted units may require less frequent maintenance due to cleaner operating conditions. However, service calls cost more due to ladder work and elevated access. Ground-level units need more regular cleaning but simpler, less expensive maintenance procedures.
| Cost Factor | Wall Bracket | Ground Pad |
Initial Material Cost | Higher ($100-300) | Lower ($30-150) |
Installation Labor | Higher ($200-600) | Lower ($100-300) |
Total Installation | $320-950 | $160-530 |
Maintenance Frequency | Lower (cleaner environment) | Higher (ground debris) |
Service Call Costs | Higher (ladder access) | Lower (easy access) |
Replacement Difficulty | More complex | Simpler, less expensive |
Professional Consultation
Complex installations benefit from professional assessment. HVAC contractors evaluate structural capacity, code compliance, and optimal positioning. They identify potential problems before installation begins. Professional installation ensures manufacturer warranty coverage and code compliance.
Homeowners should seek professional consultation for:
- Properties with questionable wall structure or siding conditions
- Installations requiring second-story or elevated mounting
- Areas with strict local building codes or HOA restrictions
- Properties in flood zones or extreme climate regions
- Situations where equipment access or clearances present challenges
Tip: Professional consultation prevents costly installation mistakes and ensures long-term equipment performance regardless of mounting method selected.
Choosing Quality Mounting Solutions
Material Quality Standards
Quality mounting components use corrosion-resistant materials and proper engineering. Wall brackets should feature heavy-gauge steel (minimum 11-gauge) or thick aluminum construction. Powder coating provides rust protection superior to spray paint. Welded joints offer greater strength than bolted assemblies.
Condenser pads manufactured from virgin or high-grade recycled composites resist cracking and UV degradation. Concrete pads should use proper reinforcement and curing procedures. Rubber pads need adequate density to prevent compression over time.
Installation Best Practices
Proper installation determines long-term performance. Wall bracket mounting requires attachment to solid framing with appropriate anchors rated for dynamic loads. Installers must use vibration isolation pads between bracket and wall. Level installation ensures proper unit operation and condensate drainage.
Ground pad installation demands adequate site preparation. Contractors excavate to stable soil, then compact a 2-4 inch gravel base. Pads must be level within manufacturer specifications. Adequate clearances from structures and vegetation prevent airflow restriction.
Finding Reliable Suppliers
Property owners seeking quality air conditioner outdoor unit brackets and condenser pads should work with established manufacturers. Reputable suppliers provide engineered solutions with load ratings and installation guidelines. They offer technical support for proper product selection and installation procedures.
For projects requiring premium mounting solutions with proven performance, JIAHAO manufactures air conditioner outdoor unit brackets and condenser pads designed for residential and commercial applications. Their products meet rigorous quality standards while offering professional installation guidance.
Conclusion
The choice between wall brackets and ground pads for air conditioner outdoor units depends on property characteristics, climate conditions, space availability, and budget considerations. Wall-mounted solutions maximize space efficiency and protect equipment from ground-level hazards like flooding and snow accumulation. Ground pads provide simpler installation, easier maintenance access, and lower initial costs for properties with adequate space.
Property owners should carefully assess structural requirements, environmental factors, and long-term maintenance implications before selecting a mounting method. Wall brackets excel in space-limited urban properties and harsh weather environments. Ground pads remain the practical choice for suburban homes with sufficient yard area and good drainage.
Professional installation ensures optimal performance and longevity regardless of mounting method. The investment in quality air conditioner outdoor unit brackets or condenser pads pays dividends through improved equipment protection, reduced maintenance costs, and extended system lifespan. Making an informed choice based on specific property needs ensures reliable cooling performance for years to come.
FAQ
What is the standard weight range for residential AC outdoor units?
Residential central AC outdoor units typically weigh between 120-250 pounds for 1.5-3 ton systems, with larger 4-5 ton units reaching 250-450 pounds. This weight requires secure mounting whether using wall brackets or ground pads.
How much clearance space do I need around my outdoor AC unit?
Manufacturers and building codes require minimum 12 inches clearance on all sides, with 24-36 inches recommended for optimal airflow and service access. Vertical clearance should be at least 60 inches above the unit.
Can I install a wall bracket myself or do I need a professional?
Wall bracket installation requires professional expertise to ensure proper structural assessment, load-bearing capacity verification, and code-compliant mounting. Ground pad installation is more suitable for experienced DIY homeowners.
What size condenser pad do I need for my AC unit?
The condenser pad should extend 2-4 inches beyond the unit's footprint on all sides. Standard residential pads range from 24"x24" to 36"x36", with 30"x30" or 36"x36" accommodating most 2-5 ton systems.
Do wall brackets reduce AC efficiency compared to ground pads?
No. Both mounting methods provide adequate airflow when installed with proper clearances. Efficiency depends on maintaining manufacturer-specified distances from walls and obstructions, not the mounting method itself.
How high should a wall-mounted AC unit be installed?
Wall brackets typically elevate units 12-36 inches above ground level. In snowy regions, units should be mounted at least 12 inches above the anticipated snow line to prevent blockage.
What are building code requirements for condenser pads?
Most building codes require condenser pads to elevate units a minimum of 2-4 inches above grade on a level surface. Some jurisdictions like Florida mandate minimum 3.5-inch thick concrete pads extending 2 inches above finished grade.
Which mounting option lasts longer?
Both options offer similar longevity when properly installed. Wall brackets using powder-coated steel or aluminum last 15-25 years. Quality condenser pads (concrete or composite) typically last 15-30 years depending on material and climate conditions.
