How Much Space Should I Keep Open Around My Air Conditioner?

You more than likely don’t think too much about your air conditioner until it’s not working right. Or until your energy bills are suddenly sky-high, even though you haven’t changed 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 get enough surrounding air or flush out hot air.

An AC system that runs hot generally doesn’t last as long. And it probably will cost more to cool your Cottonwood & Prescott home.

Connolly Electric & Mechanical can help when your air AC isn’t functioning right. Or keeping your Cottonwood & Prescott house cold enough.

Space Guidelines for Air Conditioners

So how much space 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 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 blockage, like a deck or roof overhang.

While doing yardwork, keep your unit clear of grass clippings and leaves. Yard debris 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 hotter near the coil, your system may have a problem. Call us at 928-251-4327 for help or make an appointment online.

How Much Space Does a Heat Pump Require?

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

It needs open space at all times, especially if it snows. Get rid of 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 turning your system back on.

Schedule Annual Maintenance with Connolly Electric & Mechanical

Overdue for yearly air conditioner maintenance? Give us a call at 928-251-4327 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 pinpoint small issues before they become costly problems.