How Much Space Should I Keep 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 sky-high, even though you haven’t touched the thermostat.

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

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

Air Temperature Control can help when your air AC isn’t working right. Or keeping your Macon house cool 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 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 out of contact with grass clippings and leaves. Yard waste 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 hotter near the coil, your system may have an issue. Call us at 478-202-3170 for a helping hand or make an appointment online.

How Much Space Does a Heat Pump Require?

If you live in a mild climate, you may have a heat pump in place of an air conditioner. This outdoor unit creates both heat and air conditioning for your space.

It needs open space at all times, 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, shut 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 Air Temperature Control

Overdue for regular air conditioner maintenance? Give us a call at 478-202-3170 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 pinpoint small issues before they become costly problems.