How Much Space Should I Leave Open Around My Air Conditioner?

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

Your air conditioner draws in ambient air to cool and forces out warm air as it function. 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 doesn’t last as long. And it probably will cost more to cool your Manassas home.

Air-Right Energy Design, Inc. can help when your air AC isn’t working properly. Or keeping your Manassas house cold 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 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 blockage, like a deck or roof overhang.

While doing yardwork, keep your unit free of grass clippings and leaves. Yard waste can clog 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 warmer near the coil, your system may have an issue. Call us at 703-260-1148 for help or request an appointment online.

How Much Space Does a Heat Pump Have to Have?

If you live in a moderate climate, you may have a heat pump instead of 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. Get rid of snow that gathers on the top and near the sides of the unit.

If your heat pump fills with wintry precipitation, switch 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 Air-Right Energy Design, Inc.

Overdue for regular air conditioner maintenance? Give us a call at 703-260-1148 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 expensive problems.