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 suddenly. Or until your utility bills are suddenly skyrocketing, even though you haven’t moved the thermostat.

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

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

US Air Heating and Cooling can help when your air AC isn’t working correctly. Or keeping your Rock Hill house comfortable enough.

Space Guidelines for Air Conditioners

So how much space 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 tight 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 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 a problem. Call us at 803-220-0761 for assistance or schedule an appointment online.

How Much Space Does a Heat Pump Have to Have?

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

It needs open space year round, 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, 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 US Air Heating and Cooling

Overdue for yearly air conditioner maintenance? Give us a call at 803-220-0761 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 costly problems.