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 correctly. Or until your energy bills are suddenly climbing, even though you haven’t touched the thermostat.

Your air conditioner draws in the surrounding air to cool and forces out warm air as it works. But it can promptly overheat if it can’t get enough surrounding air or flush out hot air.

An AC system that runs hot usually doesn’t last as long. And it likely will cost more to cool your South Beloit and Belvidere home.

Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc can help when your air AC isn’t running properly. Or keeping your South Beloit and Belvidere 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 the rear. 
• 1.5-foot minimum for the sides and an alcove or adjacent wall. 
• 2 feet between the sides of the unit and tight 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 blockage, like a deck or roof overhang.

While doing yardwork, keep your unit clear of grass clippings and leaves. Yard debris can clog your air conditioner and cause it to overheat.

How to Check if Your Air Conditioner is Overheating

1. Turn the air conditioner on.
2. Check the temperature a few inches from the coil. This is the metallic grate that surrounds your unit.
3. Measure the temperature 10 feet away.

If the temperatures are the same, your system is working properly.

If the temperature is hotter near the coil, your system may have something wrong with it. Call us at 877-389-2465 for a helping hand or schedule an appointment online.

How Much Space Does a Heat Pump Require?

If you live in a moderate climate, you may have a heat pump rather than an air conditioner. This outdoor unit gives both heat and air conditioning for your home.

It needs open space all year, especially if it snows. Clear away 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 some time to drain before switching your system back on.

Schedule Annual Maintenance with Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc

Overdue for regular air conditioner maintenance? Give us a call at 877-389-2465 today!

A routine AC tune-up means your air conditioner is likely more efficient—and less likely to overheat. And it also lets our skilled technicians to find small issues before they become expensive problems.