How Much Space Should Stay Open Around My Air Conditioner?

You most likely don’t think too much about your air conditioner until it’s not working suddenly. Or until your energy bills are suddenly skyrocketing, even though you haven’t moved the thermostat.

Your air conditioner draws in the surrounding air to cool and expels warm air as it runs. But it can quickly 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 likely will cost more to cool your Fort Lauderdale home.

Solar Air Inc. can help when your air AC isn’t running properly. Or keeping your Fort Lauderdale house comfortable enough.

Space Guidelines for Air Conditioners

So how much room does your air conditioner really need?

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 blockage, like a deck or roof overhang.

While doing yardwork, keep your unit free of grass clippings and leaves. Yard waste can obstruct your air conditioner and cause it to overheat.

How to See 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 954-320-7398 for assistance or make 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 provides both heat and air conditioning for your space.

It needs open space all year, 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 some time to drain before switching your system back on.

Schedule Annual Maintenance with Solar Air Inc.

Overdue for annual air conditioner maintenance? Give us a call at 954-320-7398 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 locate small issues before they become pricier problems.