How Much Space Should Stay Open Surrounding My Air Conditioner?
You most likely don’t think too much about your air conditioner until it’s not working suddenly. Or until your electric bills are suddenly skyrocketing, even though you haven’t moved the thermostat.
Your air conditioner draws in outdoor air to cool and lets out warm air as it function. But it can promptly overheat if it can’t pull in enough surrounding air or flush out hot air.
An AC system that runs hot normally won’t last as long. And it doubtlessly will cost more to cool your Franklin & South Indy home.
Winters Heating and Cooling can help when your air AC isn’t functioning properly. Or keeping your Franklin & South Indy house cool enough.
Space Guidelines for Air Conditioners
So how large of an area does your air conditioner really require?
Here’s what we recommend:
- 1-foot minimum on all sides, including behind the unit.
- 1.5-foot minimum for the sides and an alcove or adjacent wall.
- 2 feet between the sides of the unit and dense shrubs or solid fences.
- 6 inches between the sides and leafy plants, with a few extra inches left for growth.
- 8 feet between the top and obstructions, like a deck or roof overhang.
While doing yardwork, keep your unit out of contact with grass clippings and leaves. Yard scraps can congest your air conditioner and cause it to overheat.
Related: How to Clean Your Air Conditioner
How to See if Your Air Conditioner is Overheating
- Turn the air conditioner on.
- Check the temperature a few inches from the coil. This is the metallic grate that surrounds your unit.
- Measure the temperature 10 feet away.
If the temperatures are the same, your system is working properly.
If the temperature is warmer near the coil, your system may have a problem. Call us at 317-406-5382 for a helping hand or make an appointment online.
Related: How to Keep Your Air Conditioner from Failing
How Much Space Does a Heat Pump Require?
If you live in a mild climate, you may have a heat pump rather than an air conditioner. This outdoor unit creates both heat and air conditioning for your home.
It needs open space all year, especially if it snows. Get rid of snow that builds up on the top and near the sides of the unit.
If your heat pump fills with wintry precipitation, turn it off. Use warm water to melt snow and ice and give the water a little while to drain before putting your system back on.
Related: Heat Pumps Year-Round Comfort
Schedule Annual Maintenance with Winters Heating and Cooling
Overdue for regular air conditioner maintenance? Give us a call at 317-406-5382 today!
A routine AC tune-up means your air conditioner is likely more efficient—and less likely to overheat. And it also helps our skilled technicians to find small issues before they become pricier problems.
