How Much Space Should I Keep Open Around 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 skyrocketing, even though you haven’t changed 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 generally doesn’t last as long. And it doubtlessly will cost more to cool your Troy home.

Edington Heating & Cooling Inc can help when your air AC isn’t working properly. Or keeping your Troy house comfortable enough.

Space Guidelines for Air Conditioners

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

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 thick 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 free of grass clippings and leaves. Yard scraps can congest 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 937-558-9478 for assistance or request an appointment online.

How Much Space Does a Heat Pump Need?

If you live in a mild climate, you may have a heat pump instead of 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 turning your system back on.

Schedule Annual Maintenance with Edington Heating & Cooling Inc

Overdue for annual air conditioner maintenance? Give us a call at 937-558-9478 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 locate small issues before they become pricier problems.