How Much Space Should Stay Open Near My Air Conditioner?

You probably 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 changed the thermostat.

Your air conditioner draws in outdoor air to cool and expels warm air as it runs. But it can easily overheat if it can’t get enough surrounding air or flush out hot air.

An AC system that runs hot normally doesn’t last as long. And it probably will cost more to cool your Alliance home.

Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces can help when your air AC isn’t functioning right. Or keeping your Alliance house comfortable enough.

Space Guidelines for Air Conditioners

So how large of an area does your air conditioner really need?

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 obstructions, like a deck or roof overhang.

While doing yardwork, keep your unit out of contact with grass clippings and leaves. Yard waste 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 warmer near the coil, your system may have an issue. Call us at 308-321-4703 for a helping hand or request an appointment online.

How Much Space Does a Heat Pump Have to Have?

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 house.

It needs open space year round, especially if it snows. Remove snow that gathers 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 few minutes to drain before switching your system back on.

Schedule Annual Maintenance with Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces

Overdue for yearly air conditioner maintenance? Give us a call at 308-321-4703 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 costly problems.