How Much Space Should Stay Open Surrounding My Air Conditioner?

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

Your air conditioner draws in outdoor air to cool and expels warm air as it function. But it can quickly overheat if it can’t get enough surrounding air or flush out hot air.

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

Four Seasons Air Conditioning and Heating LLC can help when your air AC isn’t working correctly. Or keeping your Kingsville house cool enough.

Space Guidelines for Air Conditioners

So how much room 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 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 obstructions, like a deck or roof overhang.

While doing yardwork, keep your unit clear of grass clippings and leaves. Yard scraps can clog 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 a problem. Call us at 361-214-1203 for assistance or request an appointment online.

How Much Space Does a Heat Pump Need?

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

It needs open space all year, 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 putting your system back on.

Schedule Annual Maintenance with Four Seasons Air Conditioning and Heating LLC

Overdue for regular air conditioner maintenance? Give us a call at 361-214-1203 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 find small issues before they become costly problems.