You more than likely don’t think too much about your air conditioner until it’s not working correctly. Or until your electric bills are suddenly sky-high, 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 draw in enough surrounding air or flush out hot air.
An AC system that runs hot usually can’t last as long. And it probably will cost more to cool your Huntsville home.
All Weather Heating & Air Conditioning Inc can help when your air AC isn’t functioning right. Or keeping your Huntsville house comfortable enough.
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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 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 interference, like a deck or roof overhang.
While doing yardwork, keep your unit free of grass clippings and leaves. Yard waste can congest your air conditioner and cause it to overheat.
Related: How to Clean Your Air Conditioner
How to See if Your Air Conditioner is Overheating
- Turn the air conditioner on.
- Check the temperature a few inches from the coil. This is the metallic grate that surrounds your unit.
- 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 a problem. Call us at 256-801-4701 for help or make an appointment online.
Related: How to Keep Your Air Conditioner from Failing
How Much Space Does a Heat Pump Have to Have?
If you live in a mild 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 all year, especially if it snows. Get rid of snow that builds up 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 few minutes to drain before switching your system back on.
Related: Heat Pumps Year-Round Comfort
Schedule Annual Maintenance with All Weather Heating & Air Conditioning Inc
Overdue for regular air conditioner maintenance? Give us a call at 256-801-4701 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 pricier problems.