How Much Space Should Stay Open Surrounding My Air Conditioner?

You probably don’t think too much about your air conditioner until it’s not working correctly. Or until your electric 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 quickly overheat if it can’t pull in enough surrounding air or flush out hot air.

An AC system that runs hot generally can’t last as long. And it doubtlessly will cost more to cool your Kutztown and Breinigsville home.

Moyer Total Indoor Comfort can help when your air AC isn’t working right. Or keeping your Kutztown and Breinigsville house cold enough.

Space Guidelines for Air Conditioners

So how much room does your air conditioner really call for?

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 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 interference, like a deck or roof overhang.

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

How to See 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 higher near the coil, your system may have an issue. Call us at 484-646-3363 for help or schedule an appointment online.

How Much Space Does a Heat Pump Have to Have?

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

It needs open space year round, especially if it snows. Clear away snow that accumulates on the top and near the sides of the unit.

If your heat pump fills with wintry precipitation, switch 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.

Schedule Annual Maintenance with Moyer Total Indoor Comfort

Overdue for annual air conditioner maintenance? Give us a call at 484-646-3363 today!

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