How Much Space Should Stay Open Near My Air Conditioner?

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

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

An AC system that runs hot generally won’t last as long. And it probably will cost more to cool your Naples home.

CNR Air Conditioning Inc can help when your air AC isn’t functioning right. Or keeping your Naples 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 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 blockage, like a deck or roof overhang.

While doing yardwork, keep your unit clear 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 higher near the coil, your system may have something wrong with it. Call us at 239-241-5318 for assistance or make an appointment online.

How Much Space Does a Heat Pump Require?

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

It needs open space at all times, 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 turning your system back on.

Schedule Annual Maintenance with CNR Air Conditioning Inc

Overdue for regular air conditioner maintenance? Give us a call at 239-241-5318 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 expensive problems.