What is the typical location of the condenser fan in a split-system air-conditioning unit?

The condenser fan in a split-system air-conditioning unit is typically located outdoors. This positioning is crucial because the condenser unit is responsible for releasing heat that has been absorbed from the indoor air. By locating the condenser outdoors, it can efficiently transfer this heat to the outside atmosphere, which allows the refrigerant to cool down and condense back into a liquid state.

The outdoor location also facilitates proper airflow over the condenser coils, enabling effective heat exchange. In contrast, an indoor location would hinder this heat dissipation process, leading to decreased efficiency and potential damage to the air conditioning system. The condenser unit works in tandem with the indoor evaporator coil, where the cool air is produced and circulated within the building.

Furthermore, the other options—indoors, in the attic, and on the side of the house—do not function as suitable locations for the condenser fan. Indoor placements would obstruct the flow and prevent adequate heat dissipation, and while positioning it on the side of the house might seem plausible, it still requires ventilation to the outside, limiting the effectiveness compared to a designated outdoor placement.