You probably don’t think too much about your air conditioner until it’s not working correctly. Or until your electric bills are suddenly skyrocketing, even though you haven’t touched the thermostat.
Your air conditioner draws in the surrounding air to cool and forces out warm air as it works. But it can easily overheat if it can’t pull in enough surrounding air or flush out hot air.
An AC system that runs hot usually doesn’t last as long. And it probably will cost more to cool your Huffman home.
Air Houston Mechanical LLC can help when your air AC isn’t running right. Or keeping your Huffman house cool enough.
Space Guidelines for Air Conditioners
So how large of an area does your air conditioner require?
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 yard work, keep your unit clear of grass clippings and leaves. Yard debris can obstruct your air conditioner and cause it to overheat.
Related: How to Clean Your Air Conditioner
How to Check 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 something wrong with it. Call us at (832) 957-9332 for help or request an appointment online.
Related: How to Keep Your Air Conditioner from Failing
How Much Space Does a Heat Pump Need?
If you live in a moderate climate, you may have a heat pump instead of an air conditioner. This outdoor unit provides both heat and air conditioning for your space.
It needs open space at all times, especially if it snows. Get rid of the snow that gathers 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 switching your system back on.
Related: Heat Pumps Year-Round Comfort
Schedule Annual Maintenance with Air Houston Mechanical LLC
Overdue for annual air conditioner maintenance? Give us a call at (832) 957-9332 today!
A routine AC tune-up means your air conditioner is likely more efficient—and less likely to overheat. And it also allows our skilled technicians to locate small issues before they become pricier problems.
