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

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

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

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

Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc can help when your air AC isn’t functioning right. Or keeping your Wisconsin Rapids house cold enough.

Space Guidelines for Air Conditioners

So how much space does your air conditioner really call for?

Here’s what we recommend:

• 1-foot minimum on all sides, including the rear. 
• 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 interference, like a deck or roof overhang.

While doing yardwork, keep your unit clear of grass clippings and leaves. Yard debris 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 higher near the coil, your system may have a problem. Call us at 715-301-0256 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 gives both heat and air conditioning for your space.

It needs open space year round, especially if it snows. Remove 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 some time to drain before turning your system back on.

Schedule Annual Maintenance with Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc

Overdue for annual air conditioner maintenance? Give us a call at 715-301-0256 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 locate small issues before they become expensive problems.