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

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

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

An AC system that runs hot generally won’t last as long. And it likely will cost more to cool your Norco and St. Charles Parish home.

Mayeuxs AC & Heating can help when your air AC isn’t running properly. Or keeping your Norco and St. Charles Parish house comfortable enough.

Space Guidelines for Air Conditioners

So how much space does your air conditioner really require?

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 thick 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 free 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 warmer near the coil, your system may have an issue. Call us at (985) 764-2426 for assistance or request an appointment online.

How Much Space Does a Heat Pump Require?

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

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, switch it off. Use warm water to melt snow and ice and give the water a little while to drain before switching your system back on.

Schedule Annual Maintenance with Mayeuxs AC & Heating

Overdue for regular air conditioner maintenance? Give us a call at (985) 764-2426 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.