For your AC unit to work properly, it has to have a certain amount of airflow to keep things cool. Without it, you can run into a number of issues. Many people don’t understand how much space they need to have an outdoor unit properly installed. Hal Mechanical is here to talk about the clearance that is needed to make your outdoor AC unit installation a success.
What Can Happen if There isn’t Space Around AC Condenser Unit?
Your outdoor unit requires a certain amount of airflow around the condenser and the compressor in order to function properly. When there are obstructions around your unit, it can restrict this airflow. Some of the issues that come with restricted airflow include:
– A house that isn’t as cool as you would like
– Higher energy bills as a result of a unit that is working overtime to cool your home
– Damage to the unit because the heat generated during operation isn’t expelled anywhere and causes issues
How Much Clearance Do You Need Around an Air Conditioner?
As a general rule, you shouldn’t have anything within 24 inches of your outdoor AC unit on all sides. There are several obstructions that can potentially cause problems if they are located too close to the unit.
– Landscaping: Some homeowners try to hide their AC unit by planting shrubs and other plants around it. If you have done this, make sure you are constantly trimming and pruning them to give your unit that 24 inches it needs to breathe.
– Walls & Fences: There are often walls or fences that are located around your home and can get close to your unit. This should be fine as long as you get that two feet that is required for your unit to work properly.
– Vents: There are several vents that are needed to keep many homes running. Vents for your dryer, kitchen hood and even gas vents shouldn’t be located near your outdoor unit. You should give at least 8 feet of clearance between these vents and your unit.
How Much Clearance Do You Need Above Air Conditioning Unit?
Not only do you need to think about space around your unit but the top as well. You should have at least 60 inches of clearance from the top of your unit to the nearest wall or roof. This is because air is cycled in and out of your unit and needs somewhere to go. Without proper spacing, you will see stress on your unit.
How Far Apart Should AC Units Be?
If you live in a two-story house, you may need to have two AC units to keep it cool. If this is the case, you need to have at least four feet between the two units so that they have the space they need to work properly.
Central Air Conditioning Replacement, Repairs, Tune Up Maintenance & More in Aliante, Anthem, Desert Shores, Eldorado, Enterprise, Green Valley Ranch, Henderson, Inspirada, Mountain’s Edge, North LV, Peccole Ranch, Paradise, Providence, Rhodes Ranch, Seven Hills, Silverado Ranch, Spring Valley, Summerlin, Sunrise Manor, The Lakes, Tuscany Village & Las Vegas Nevada
Call on the professionals at Hal Mechanical if you are in need of an AC replacement. We know the proper spacing that is needed and will ensure you are kept cool all summer long. Call us today!
