AC Unit Clearance: Basics for Sterling Heights Residents

There are several factors that may impact the performance and lifespan of a given AC unit, and one of these that’s sometimes glossed over is the unit’s clearance. This refers to how much space is present surrounding the unit, allowing it to properly filter and cycle air during operations to bring your home quality, efficient cooling.

At FLAME Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, we’re here to help with all your Sterling Heights HVAC installation needs, including planning and installation of any AC unit. Clearance is one of several important concepts we’ll consider as we install a new AC unit — why is clearance important, what are some basic guidelines for it, and what are the kinds of obstructions you’ll want to keep far away from your outdoor unit to ensure quality operations? This two-part blog series will go over everything you need to know.

Why Outdoor AC Unit Clearance Matters

There are several reasons why your AC unit needs unobstructed airflow for it to work properly. These include:

• Lack of cooling with obstructions: If your unit’s airflow is restricted, it can’t cool your home as efficiently. The result may be a home that’s not cooled to the temperature you want, or uneven cooling throughout the house as some rooms get cooler than others.
• Higher energy bills: If your AC unit isn’t able to function properly due to clearance issues, it will have to work harder to cool your home and therefore will require more energy. This means higher energy bills in the summer months.
• Problems with your unit’s lifespan: Over time, restricted airflow can cause issues with your AC unit, resulting in possible broken or faulty parts and shortening the lifespan of your entire system. This could mean costly repairs or even a replacement.

As you can see, clearance is an important factor in ensuring proper performance of your AC unit, which is why we want to help with any installation needs that you may have and ensure a quality product.

Basic General Clearance Guidelines

While precise clearance guidelines for your AC unit may differ slightly depending on the model being used, a general rule of thumb is that most units need a minimum of one foot of clearance to be able to function correctly. Some units will require a bit more space than this, such as those that are taller, while others may be able to get by with slightly less.

In terms of the specific clearance requirements for your AC unit, it’s best to consult with a professional during installation or if you have any questions. Our team at FLAME Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is always here to help and can give you specific guidance on the installation of your new AC unit, ensuring that it’s done properly.

For more on this topic, or to get help with any Sterling Heights AC installation or related needs, speak with the team at FLAME Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical today.