How Much Space Should Stay Open Surrounding My Air Conditioner?

You probably 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 touched the thermostat.

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

An AC system that runs hot usually won’t last as long. And it doubtlessly will cost more to cool your Franklin Lakes home.

Total Comfort can help when your air AC isn’t working properly. Or keeping your Franklin Lakes 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 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 obstructions, like a deck or roof overhang.

While doing yardwork, keep your unit clear of grass clippings and leaves. Yard scraps can congest 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 warmer near the coil, your system may have something wrong with it. Call us at 201-268-5663 for a helping hand 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 gives both heat and air conditioning for your home.

It needs open space year round, especially if it snows. Clear away 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 few minutes to drain before switching your system back on.

Schedule Annual Maintenance with Total Comfort

Overdue for regular air conditioner maintenance? Give us a call at 201-268-5663 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.