Manual

AC Shade Installation Instructions

How AC Shade Works

AC Shade is designed around a simple principle:

👉 Block direct sunlight while allowing your system to breathe freely

Because every AC unit and home setup is slightly different, installation is flexible — but it always follows a few key principles.

This guide will walk you through those principles so you can install your AC Shade confidently and correctly.

If you ever need help, we’re always here.

What's in the box:

  • 1x AC Shade Canvas
  • 4x Frame Poles (modular, snap-fit)
  • 2x Corner Connectors (X-style)
  • 2x Middle Support Connector (T-style)
  • 4x High-tech elastic securement devices (commonly referred to as bungee cords)
  • 1x Quick Start Guide
  • 6x Canvas Support Ribs
  • 6x Canvas Support Ribs - Caps

Important Assembly Notes

  • Cap installation: Current shipments include end caps that must be installed on the 20" canopy support ribs before inserting those ribs into the frame.
  • Tight-fit connections: Pipes and connectors are designed for a precise, secure fit. Light taps with a rubber mallet (or similar) may help ensure all pieces are fully seated during assembly.

🧩 Step-by-Step Assembly

Step 1: Frame the Shade

  • Connect the poles into a square using the corner connectors
  • The 4 (A) posts form the inner frame
  • Use the T-connectors on one side and the X connectors on the opposite side.

Step 2: Attach the Canvas

  • Lay the canvas flat on the ground and place the inner frame inside the opening 

 

  • Align the sleeves with the poles
  • Slide 2 (B) poles through the canvas sleeves and then push them firmly into the "T" connector.

  • Insert the remaining four (B) poles into the corner canvas pockets, then slide them into the X-connector slots.

📸     

Step 3: Installation

For Square Units:

  • Center the AC Shade on top of the unit so the open center aligns directly above the exhaust fan.
  • Ensure the shade covers as much of the condenser’s top surface and coil area as possible without obstructing airflow.

For Non-Square Units:

  • Center the shade over the exhaust fan, keeping overlap to a minimum. Avoid overlapping the fan area by more than 1/2 an inch per side to maintain proper airflow.”
  • Adjust position to provide maximum shade for the intake louvers or coil sections while maintaining fan clearance.

For Larger or Package Units:

  • Set the AC Shade on top of the condenser so the open center section sits directly around the exhaust fan (the upward-blowing discharge).
  • Adjust to shade as much of the cooling coils and intake louvers as possible without blocking airflow.
  • Some larger rooftop or side-discharge units may require creative placement — the goal is always to provide shade while allowing clear air movement.

Tip: For most homes, aligning the main shaded area toward the south or west side will block the most intense afternoon sunlight.

Once positioned properly, continue to the next step to secure your AC Shade in place.

If you have any questions about how to best install or secure your AC Shade, feel free to reach out to us — see our Contact Us page.

Step 4: Secure It (Important)

Every installation will look a little different — and that’s perfectly fine. AC Shade was designed to adapt.

That said, one key principle makes the system work correctly:

👉 Use the bungee cords across the corners of the frame — wrapping around the pipes (not the connectors)

This does two things:

  • Holds the shade in place
  • Helps lock the frame together under tension

(See photo below for reference)

👉 If the bungee is not crossing the frame pipes, the frame may feel loose or unstable in wind — installed correctly, it will feel solid.

Additional tips:

  • Use the included bungees or any equivalent outdoor straps
  • Aim for at least three secure anchor points for balance
  • If one corner doesn’t cooperate, adjust your anchor point — the system is meant to adapt

If it feels stable and your fan breathes freely, you did it right.

AC Shade is designed to fit nearly every unit type — no two installations are exactly the same, and that’s by design.

Safety tip:

Make sure the first hook is secured before stretching the second hook to prevent it from snapping loose.

Damage warning:

When placing hooks, avoid contact with the inner cooling coils. These are delicate and can be damaged, potentially causing leaks. Always hook onto the outer casing only.

Stretch the bungee across the corner. 

(BEST)

Hook the other end into the grate on the opposite side.

Tip: Stretch to about 90% of the cord’s maximum length for optimal tension.

(Good)

Repeat for all four corners.

Note: If any corner cannot be spanned, you can secure the bungee over the nearby PVC frame instead.

👉 If installed using these principles, AC Shade will perform exactly as designed — reducing heat load while maintaining proper airflow.

Safety tip: Make sure the hooks are secured tightly and double-check them to prevent them from popping off. Safety first.

Seasonal & Weather Notes

AC Shade is designed for outdoor, year-round use. 

  • However, for severe weather (winds above 65 mph), we recommend removing the shade temporarily to avoid stress on the unit or frame.
  • Reinstall easily after conditions stabilize.
  • It’s recommended to remove the AC Shade during months when air conditioning isn’t in use, so it’s ready to protect your system for many years.
  • For heat pumps, removing it in colder months is recommended, as sunlight can assist system efficiency.

🛠 Need Help?

Email: support@cooleriscooler.com