Which of the following describes the placement of the outside unit in relation to the inside unit?

The placement of the outside unit in relation to the inside unit is commonly understood to be below it. This configuration is particularly ideal for residential heat pump installations, where the outdoor unit, responsible for dissipating heat, is often placed at ground level. This arrangement allows for efficient refrigerant line routing and minimizes potential issues with drainage from the indoor coil.

In many installations, the outdoor unit can be positioned at or below the level of the indoor unit, ensuring that proper airflow is maintained and making it easier to connect the two units. Positioning the outdoor unit below the indoor unit is practical, especially in regions that might experience severe weather, as it can help protect the unit from potential damage.

The other options involve scenarios that are less common or practical in typical residential settings. For instance, having the outdoor unit above the indoor unit or on the roof could complicate the installation, make maintenance more challenging, or introduce additional concerns about accessibility and safety. Each of these alternatives presents considerations that are generally less favorable than placing the outdoor unit below the indoor unit.