How Much Space Should I Keep 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 sky-high, even though you haven’t moved the thermostat.

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

An AC system that runs hot usually can’t last as long. And it doubtlessly will cost more to cool your West Valley City home.

Select Comfort Systems Heating & Air Conditioning can help when your air AC isn’t running right. Or keeping your West Valley City 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 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 dense 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 scraps can obstruct 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 hotter near the coil, your system may have an issue. Call us at 801-305-4777 for assistance or make an appointment online.

How Much Space Does a Heat Pump Require?

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

It needs open space all year, especially if it snows. Clear away snow that builds up on the top and near the sides of the unit.

If your heat pump fills with wintry precipitation, shut 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 Select Comfort Systems Heating & Air Conditioning

Overdue for regular air conditioner maintenance? Give us a call at 801-305-4777 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 locate small issues before they become costly problems.