How Much Space Should Stay Open Surrounding My Air Conditioner?

You more than likely don’t think too much about your air conditioner until it’s not working correctly. Or until your electric bills are suddenly skyrocketing, even though you haven’t touched the thermostat.

Your air conditioner draws in ambient air to cool and expels warm air as it works. But it can easily overheat if it can’t pull in 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 Temple/Belton home.

Bell Air Conditioning Inc can help when your air AC isn’t running correctly. Or keeping your Temple/Belton house cool enough.

Space Guidelines for Air Conditioners

So how much room does your air conditioner really require?

Here’s what we recommend:

• 1-foot minimum on all sides, including the back. 
• 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 clear of grass clippings and leaves. Yard debris can obstruct 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 higher near the coil, your system may have something wrong with it. Call us at 254-307-9572 for help or request an appointment online.

How Much Space Does a Heat Pump Need?

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

It needs open space all year, especially if it snows. Clear away 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 little while to drain before putting your system back on.

Schedule Annual Maintenance with Bell Air Conditioning Inc

Overdue for regular air conditioner maintenance? Give us a call at 254-307-9572 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 expensive problems.