How Much Space Should Stay Open Near My Air Conditioner?

You probably 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 touched the thermostat.

Your air conditioner draws in outdoor air to cool and forces out warm air as it function. 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 usually can’t last as long. And it doubtlessly will cost more to cool your Port St. Lucie home.

Custom Air Systems Inc can help when your air AC isn’t working correctly. Or keeping your Port St. Lucie house comfortable enough.

Space Guidelines for Air Conditioners

So how large of an area 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 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 scraps 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 something wrong with it. Call us at 772-247-2283 for help or request an appointment online.

How Much Space Does a Heat Pump Require?

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

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

Schedule Annual Maintenance with Custom Air Systems Inc

Overdue for yearly air conditioner maintenance? Give us a call at 772-247-2283 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 expensive problems.