Clearance distance FAQs for outdoor HVAC compressor/condenser units:

Frequently-asked questions & answers about clearance distances or spacing around air conditioners & heat pumps.

This article series describes the recommended minimum (and maximum) distances to separate an air conditioner or heat pump outdoor compressor/condenser unit from building walls, other equipment, fences, shrubs, etc. In our photo at page top these two compressor/condenser units are too close together as well as too close to the building walls.

Air Conditioning & Heat Pump Equipment Minimum Clearance Distances from Building Walls, Shrubs, Other Equipment

These questions & answers about clearance distances around HVAC equipment were posted originally at CLEARANCE DISTANCE, HVAC - be sure to see that article.

On 2020-09-23 - by (mod) - compressor/condenser unit placement restrictions due to noise issues near parkland

I'd get clear with the zoning board what the issues is; if it's noise I've suggested some steps to take to see if you can close the issue before moving anything.

The noise decision might turn on the actual data - the actual noise of your specific equipment - rather than arbitrary ruling; relying on objective facts is often particularly useful.

On 2020-09-23 by Anonymous

Thats the current location. I really dont want to move them but filing for a variance approval taking longer than usual. You can see the fence thats next to the park.

On 2020-09-21 - by (mod) -

Well I expect your local zoning board knows perfectly well what their rules are, though that 30 ft. sounds unusual. Perhaps it was applied specifically because your property is next to a public park. They may be concerned about noise intrusion.

**IF** your zoning board confirms that their concern is a noise pollution issue

THEN

Did you ask if you could mitigate the concern by some expert-designed sound-reduction measures?

Did you get the noise rating or noise level data for your specific compressor/condenser unit and present that to the zoning board? Some split system A/C and heat pump units are remarkably quiet.

For example some Mitsubishi split system A/C units operate at 32 decibels. Noise rating research and articles typically state that a human voice, whispering from five feet away, will be measured at about 30 decibels, making those Mitsubishi units very close to "whisper quiet".

Please see CLEARANCE DISTANCE, HVAC inspectapedia.com/aircond/HVAC_Clearance_Distances.php for standard compressor unit clearance distances.

On 2020-09-20 by Anonymous

I did when I applied to zoning thats what they told me.

Something about being in A corner lot few other factors that i dodnt understand.

This is in Springfield NJ i have attached my survey

On 2020-09-20 - by (mod) -

I'm surprised by that 30' rule and would like to know where it comes from. Did you check with your local building department?

On 2020-09-19 by Jose

Hello i live next to a park and was told from the fence to where i want to put the condensing doesnt clear the 30 feet clearance is only 12 ft. I would have to do a variance if i want them at that locarion or i can put them by the driveway which kind of blows.

On 2020-06-25 - by (mod) -

See your question that you posted at

inspectapedia.com/aircond/AC-Compressor-Disconnect-Switch.php

where we have replied
flag like reply

On 2020-06-22 by Anonymous

how many feet between ac condenser and main electrical service

On 2020-05-31 - by (mod) -

Vicki

I agree; the oil delivery driver needs easy access to the fill and vent pipe.

On 2020-05-28 by Vicki

My installer put heat pump condense unit outside directly infront of oil fill pipe,what are the clearances for these units as i know this is not right

On 2019-05-17 - by (mod) -

It's not specified but you may need to install protection for the compressor condenser unit if that's what you're talkin about

On 2019-05-17 by Tina

How much room between a neighbors concrete driveway and a ac pump

On 2019-07-06 by (mod) - building a fence around the condenser unit

A solid fence? You want to worry about

1. adequate working space around the unit for inspection, maintenance and repair -

2. adequate air flow to permit the unit to cool properly

The article CLEARANCE DISTANCE, HVAC gives typical condenser clearance distances,

see the paragraph titled

Closest recommended clearance distances for A/C or Heat Pump Compressors

but the installation and operation manual for your specific HVAC condenser unit brand and model would of course be the best authority as their data could differ.

Blocking air flow means higher operating cost and blocking service access means extra costs to remove the fence when the unit needs work.

On 2019-07-05 by Bruce

We are having a fence installed. What is the minimum/recommended clearances for each side of the condenser? One side is adjacent to the house, two sides are completely open and the front has 16" of clearance to the fence. Is this adequate? Does this break and codes or manufacturer specs.

On 2019-07-03 by (mod) -

Let's pick a window air conditioner brand and model and then take a look at the installation instructions. I think you'll see that they're going to give us a clearance around the outside unit. I agree with you that if you end up with only an inch or two of free space unit is going to not work well maybe any fishing and may even be overheated and damaged.

On 2019-06-24 by Bannon

Good Afternoon:)

Interested in installing small window a/c in a shed outside wall...attempting to locate information on clearance needed for the back/rear end of ac unit 5000 btu.

The shed wall is parallel with garage stucco wall....clearance between 2 walls is approximately 15 inches...I am unsure exactly how much space/air flow is needed at the backend of unit...Thank you very much for any and all adice:)

On 2019-04-24 by (mod) -

I would go with the installers advice

On 2019-04-23 by Marie

I've ordered a Pool Heat Pump to be installed behind my house (Neptune Beach, FL). The pool filter is in the garage, the plumbing from the filter comes thru the wall to the outside of the house where we want the Heat Pump to be placed.

There's a window in the garage(that we never open) right where the Heat Pump would be placed. What is the minimum clearance needed to place the Heat Pump in front of the window? The installer says 4'. Is the window even an issue?

Everything I've read about clearance only discusses distance from building and other items, nothing about windows.

On 2019-04-03 by Zach

I am considering replacing my older furnace with a high efficiency system, then removing the original heat stack and replacing it with a laundry shoot. This would require side venting of the new unit. However, I have some limitations on where the side vent and air supply can go.

I have only a 15-foot wide section on the back of the house where I can realistically place this. And due to an egress window, an operable window in the kitchen above, and plans for an addition off the back of the house which would create an "L" shaped corner, I have very few places where I can place it. One place that would work well to penetrate through the wall is directly behind the air conditioning condenser.

I don't want the exhaust blowing on the condenser. But could I elbow up 3-4 feet and then elbow out away from the house for the air intake and exhaust? This would place the exhaust above the condenser. Air blowing up from the condenser would never cause exhaust blowing back in to the vent because the furnace would never be operating at the same time as the A/C.

I am in Minnesota and we get some cold winters. Is there a maximum distance an exterior pipe can be due to freezing of the vapor? I would probably place a seasonal angled "roof" over the condenser so frozen vapor or icicles wouldn't accumulate on the condenser unit.

On 2019-02-17 by Lana

Our furnace, located in the garage closet, & intake air vent makes a lot of noise (up to 86 decibels) heard inside our house. Where can I find references to acceptable noise from HVAC systems INSIDE the residence? I live in Los Angeles. I’ve researched & was only able to find ordinances for outside noise penetrating inside & construction noise ordinances, nothing in standards of noise from HVAC equipment inside the home. Plz help.

On 2019-01-28 by (mod) -

Yes Harry, we read and try to respond promptly to all comments, but in truth, with millions of readers, sometimes it's difficult for moderators to give an immediate reply to every posting.

An air conditioner that is installed in a location where it cannot be serviced would be in violation of the manufacturer's own installation instructions. Since model codes require following those instructions the installation would in my view also be in violation of plumbiung, electrical, HVAC, or other appropriate building codes , and might also be unsafe.

However the final authority on whether or not your AC units are in code violation is your local building code compliance officer.

Give them a call and let me know what you are told and we can comment further.

On 2019-01-16 by Harry

is anyone reading this

On 2019-01-16 by Harry

Our air conditioner units can’t be accessed by us because they are 30 feet up on a slanted roof and we are not allowed to put a ladder up to them.I wonder if the building code or electrical code allows this type of installation?

On 2018-12-26 by Dick Bolt

Heat Pump Winter House & Ground Heat to aid HP? My controller for HP only has selections of 35F or 30F in cold range for winter weather. Yes more 5 deg choices! I would like to use the adjacent ground or house heat to keep HP on heating house and not revert to $ Propane.

Trying using plastic film to try to make HP air intake use some of that warmer air than cold adjacent air. Experimenting, but no real data except HP temp sender says 3-5 Deg F higher that outside temp says. No, not talking abt Geothermal HP conversion. Need to really know where Carrier HP air is pulled from..working on that. Anyone else get ant positive HP majic on this for Winter, not summer?

On 2018-10-28 by (mod) -

Re-posting a Q&A discussed by private email:

Anonymous asked:

My neighbor's AC compressors are excessively loud.
Can you tell if their location or installation is contributing to this problem?

Reply:

I can't diagnose the noise issue but your photo shows units that very possibly are improperly-installed, too close to one another and too close to a building wall. That mistake can shorten compressor life. A failing compressor can be noisy.

IMAGE LOST by older Comments Box code bug - now repaired. Sorry. If you can re-post this image please do so.

On 2018-10-28 by (mod) -

Re-posting a Q&A discussed by private email:

Anonymous asked:

My neighbor's AC compressors are excessively loud.
Can you tell if their location or installation is contributing to this problem?

Reply:

I can't diagnose the noise issue but your photo shows units that very possibly are improperly-installed, too close to one another and too close to a building wall. That mistake can shorten compressor life. A failing compressor can be noisy.

On 2018-10-05 by (mod) - code distance from the condensing unit to pool equipment/ swimming pool

Haven't found an explicit rule for exactly what you asked what the general guideline would be 5 feet from the closest surface of the compressor to the nearest body of water

On 2018-10-05 by Distance to pool equipment/ pool to air conditioning condensers?

Is there a code distance from the condensing unit to pool equipment/ swimming pool

On 2018-09-02 by (mod) -

Note the overhead clearance distances in the article CLEARANCE DISTANCE, HVAC - I suspect that roof is obstructing air flow out of the compressor/condenser unit and thus may cause it to run hot and may shorten its life.

What ice are we discussing? Winter snow-cover?

Ice does not normally form on the outdoor compressor/condenser unit.

On 2018-09-01 by Rick

Would something like this work to keep ice from building up on top of the unit? Would it have to be higher so the air can flow?

On 2018-07-23 by (mod) -

It may be an installation error.

I'm not sure about safety - as I don't know what "furance outlets" you actually have. But in general a compressor unit wouldn't be installed almost touching what might be a vent for hot combustion gases.

On 2018-07-22 8 by Paula

my neighbor recently installed a new armstrong ac compressor. The end of the compressor almost touches my furnace outlets. Is this safe?

On 2018-05-02 by (mod) -

I have constructed such covers by taking great care to provide significant air flow and to not block the air in the door air exhaust passages.

Otherwise, You're likely to cause overheating which in the very best of Worlds shortens the life of the compressor condenser unit. Also you don't want to block service access.

Take a look at the manufacturer's specifications for clearances from building walls. Finally you could check with the manufacturer themselves about what percentage closure you could make around the units. I suspect they're going to tell you none.

On 2018-05-02 by Lady

Would like to cover a/c units with vented privacy panels to hide the units. Any problem with circulating air and future problems??

On 2018-04-24 by (mod) -

Chad

If your deck plan is going to surround the A/C compressor/condenser with deck, that will not work. The deck blocks air flow and also blocks access for service or repair.

On 2018-04-24 by Chad

Is it legal to put an AC unit-Condenser ONTO a low deck (less than 24 inches from the ground), in the state of Michigan.

The person who is trying to build this deck, wants the deck to go all the way up to the home and in the way is the primary air conditioner portion outside. He doesn't believe that this will be a code violation, and I'm telling him that from everything I feel I know that it would be.

I'm not seeing any definitive answers on this, and he doesn't seem to understand that if he doesn't build this to code that it will cost him more money in the long run then to possibly move the AC unit to a different location. I'm telling him it needs to stay on the solid concrete pad that it is resting on now.

And he is telling me that the HVAC company that is disconnecting the unit so he can put it on to this deck didn't say that it would be a problem either way.

What I'm trying to do more than anything is prevent him from having to go through some expensive alterations later.

I have tried to explain to him that he needs to build the deck around the AC unit and leave it on the pad that it's on but he is insistent that he won't do it that way, and surprisingly the person building the deck for him seems to think it will be okay as well. What saith the professionals here on this site?

On 2018-04-03 by (mod) - clearance from [Whole house generator OR air conditioner] to a Hot Tub?

Question received by private email:

How about? Minimum clearance from [Whole house generator OR air conditioner] to a Hot Tub?

If it matters I live in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana. - Anonymous by private email 2018/03/03


Reply:

The building codes cannot anticipate every possible construction arrangement people might want to try, so tend to offer general guidelines like "distance to plumbing, a sink tub, shower, etc."

The US NEC (if you're in the U.S.) gives requirements for installing pools and spas in Article 680

You might run into some GFCI distances at any clearance less than 6 ft. or less than 10 ft. even if a location were otherwise permitted.

There are also some subtle requirements such as codes (Florida and probably other states) that do not permit running ANY electrical wiring under a pool or hot tub or spa.
Florida:

Chapter 27 Electrical (NFPA 70) 2011 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE & SPS 316 - SWIMMING POOL WIRING

NEC ARTICLE 680

680.5 GFCI’s that are required may be either breakers or receptacle type.

680.7 Max. cord length for a pump motor is 3’ except for storable pools.

680.8 Overhead wire clearance is min. 10’ horizontal from the pool wall.

680.10 Underground wiring less than 5’ from pool needs to be in approved conduit.

680.12 A means of disconnection such as a switch or plug must be within sight of the equipment served.

680.21(A)(1) Branch circuits for pump motors shall be in rigid, intermediate or non metallic conduit or MC cable.

UF cable is not allowed because the equipment ground must be insulated.

Exceptions apply where wiring is on or within buildings. Flex is allowed at the pump motor.

680.22(A)(1)Receptacles for pump motors between 6’ to 10’ from the pool wall must be locking type, grounded, single outlet and GFCI protected.

680.22(A)(2) Other Receptacles shall be at least 6’from the pool wall and GFCI protected.

680.22(A)(3) At least one general purpose receptacle from 6’ to 20’ away is required for pools at 1& 2 family homes and other dwelling units.

680.26 Perimeter bonding and water bonding is required for permanent aboveground pools and inground pools.

A minimum #8 AWG copper wire (ground ring) must be installed around the pool 4” to 6” below grade, 18” to 24” from the pool and connect to the pump motor, heater and the pool water.

680.26(B) 4 Point bonding is not required to the vertical uprights of pools with Vinyl Liners as it is considered a nonconductive material.

“For nonconductive pool shells, bonding at 4 points shall not be required”

680.26(C) The pool water must be bonded to at least 9 sq” of metal.

This may be accomplished by:

1. Bonding to a pool water heater.

2. Installing a metal pipe nipple in the water circulation system so a ground strap may be attached to it.

3. Other approved methods.

680.30 Storable pools (temporary pools) do not need water bonding or a ground ring. They shall be provided with a GFCI receptacle with a
weather proof cover to allow attachment of the factory installed pool pump cord.

The receptacle shall be at least 6’ from the pool.

Extension cords shall not be used.

On 2018-03-11 by (mod) -

M. Barker said:
Thank you for your Compressor system great information. I have a small compressor

I am a new user of a compressor. I didn't know that Blocking air flow through the outdoor A/C or heat pump compressor/condenser unit is a really bad idea, Which I can know by reading this article.

On 2018-02-18 by (mod) - clearance of an automatic whole house generator from an a/c condenser?

Fair question, Jim, not one I find in HVAC installation guides since the electrical generator is a pretty-specific device. Codes and guidelines can't anticipate everything that might be installed around a building, so usually more general constraints are given.

In the U.S. NFPA 37 provides installation specifications for "stationary combustion engines"

See this discussion of installation of GENERAC (brand) generators

inspectapedia.com/electric/Generac-Installation-Guidelines-SCPDC.pdf

where you'll see nothing about A/C compressors but other recommended clearance distances from windows and from combustibles.

Here are excerpts from the NFPA document:

NFPA 37, Section 4.1.4, Engines Located Outdoors.

Engines, and their weatherproof housings if provided, that are installed outdoors shall be located at least 5 ft. from openings in walls and at least 5 ft. from structures having combustible walls. A minimum separation shall not be required where the following conditions exist:

1. The adjacent wall of the structure has a fire resistance rating of at least 1 hour.

2. The weatherproof enclosure is constructed of noncombustible materials and it has been demonstrated that a fire within the enclosure will not ignite combustible materials outside the enclosure.

You may find closer distances allowed by the installation manual for specific generators including Generac who in some documents supports clearance to combustible walls of as little as 18" - again no mention of A/C compressors.

The following quote is from a Generac manual and is pretty standard, notwithstanding smaller distances I've just cited. You should use this:

Allow at least five feet of clearance on all sides of the generator when operating. - source: Generac, "Portable Generators" [brochure, PDF], retrieved 2018/02/17, original source: Generac

Power Systems, Inc.
S45 W29290 Hwy. 59, Waukesha, WI 53189
1-888-GENERAC (1-888-436-3722)
0180710SBY Rev. B 08/2014

Also see BACKUP ELECTRICAL GENERATORS at https://inspectapedia.com/electric/Backup_Electrical_Generators.php

On 2018-02-17 by Jim

Is there a code for clearance of an automatic whole house generator from an a/c condenser? Maybe at least the exhaust end?

On 2018-02-18 by (mod) - code for clearance distance of a backup generator from an a/c condenser?

Fair question, Jim, not one I find in HVAC installation guides since the electrical generator is a pretty-specific device. Codes and guidelines can't anticipate everything that might be installed around a building, so usually more general constraints are given.

In the U.S. NFPA 37 provides installation specifications for "stationary combustion engines"

See this discussion of installation of GENERAC (brand) generators

inspectapedia.com/electric/Generac-Installation-Guidelines-SCPDC.pdf

where you'll see nothing about A/C compressors but other recommended clearance distances from windows and from combustibles but concern for fire safety and for avoiding dangerous or fatal carbon monoxide hazards. .

Here are excerpts from the NFPA document:

NFPA 37, Section 4.1.4, Engines Located Outdoors. Engines, and their weatherproof housings if provided, that are installed outdoors shall be located at least 5 ft. from openings in walls and at least 5 ft. from structures having combustible walls. A minimum separation shall not be required where the following conditions exist:

1. The adjacent wall of the structure has a fire resistance rating of at least 1 hour.

2. The weatherproof enclosure is constructed of noncombustible materials and it has been demonstrated that a fire within the enclosure will not ignite combustible materials outside the enclosure.

You may find closer distances allowed by the installation manual for specific generators including Generac who in some documents supports clearance to combustible walls of as little as 18" - again no mention of A/C compressors.

The following quote is from a Generac manual and is pretty standard, notwithstanding smaller distances I've just cited. You should use this:

Allow at least five feet of clearance on all sides of the generator when operating. - source: Generac, "Portable Generators" [brochure, PDF], retrieved 2018/02/17, original source: Generac Power Systems, Inc.S45 W29290 Hwy. 59, Waukesha, WI 531891-888-GENERAC (1-888-436-3722)0180710SBY Rev. B 08/2014

Also see BACKUP ELECTRICAL GENERATORS at https://inspectapedia.com/electric/Backup_Electrical_Generators.php

On 2018-02-17 by Jim

Is there a code for clearance of an automatic whole house generator from an a/c condenser? Maybe at least the exhaust end?

On 2018-02-09 by (mod) - clothes dryer lint and A/C compressor/condenser units

A dryer vent blows warm moist air and lint.

If lint is blowing all over an air conditioner or heat pump condensing oil that can cause malfunction or failure of that equipment.

On 2018-02-07 by valerie

Our houses are really close to eachother, my neighbors gas dryer vent in located on their side wall which happens to enclose my front portico. Does this present a hazard?

On 2018-01-14 by (mod) -

I don't know what a Hov-Cov is but 12" if that's something that blocks airflow it is very likely that the installation violates the installation clearance distances required - check the installation manual for your heat pump brand and model.

Clearance space above an air conditioner compressor/condenser unit

Allow at least 48 in. (1219.2mm) above the compressor/condenser unit.

Some installation instructions for split system compressor/condenser units specify 60" (150cm) above and 24" (40cm) the unit around the coil on 3 sides for air intake. Clearance between the unit and the structure (presumably a wall) can be 12"

On 2018-01-12 by James Bryant

Hov-cov IS 12 INCHES above top of heat pump is this ok??

On 2017-12-16 by (mod) - Blocking the airflow around an outdoor condenser unit

Judy, Blocking the airflow around an outdoor condenser unit will
- increase its operating cost
- reduce its effectiveness
- shorten its life.

Take a copy of the installation manual for your specific Frigidaire model out and look at the minimum free air space clearance distances required by the manufacturer. That should clear up this concern.

On 2017-12-15 by Judy

Hi, I have a Frigidaire 12000 BTU through the wall air conditioner for a condominium. The outside sleeve is about 9 inches from the floor of the terrace and the terrace railing is about 40 inches tall so that the main compressor is about inline with the most condensed part of the webbing. However the Condo mgt. wants to install fence webbing on the terrace railing which only allow 10 percent air to flow through the spaces of the webbing.

The webbing is made of plastic and is not flame retardant. I have tried to call Frigidaire and PC Richards where I purchased the AC to see about air clearance, but I have been unsuccessful. On a hot summer day the hot air temp that the ac outputs is over 100 degrees and I am concerned that the webbing (its fence webbing=not made for terraces) in which they made mandatory will trap the hot air and the performance of the ac.

Therefore there will be 45 inches to the webbed railing with 90% of the air blocked; 6 inches from the one side of the sleeve and full clearance on the other side. There are no plants that will survive from the air flow and therefore I leave that area clear for ventilation.

If they go through with this project, will my ac work at capacity? MY AC is in use all year round due to illness .Please advice, thanks so much

On 2017-08-16 Nita

My neighbors air conditioner compressor is between the houses and is on my property we were wondering if we would be able to build a fence up between the houses to keep anybody from taking them , buy the way my air conditioner unit is on the same side and there is about 3 ft away from my house that his unit is,

And there is a fence already across the back yard between the houses now they want to but a 6ft high and 5 ft wide fence in the front of the two houses. Will this be against codes or rules?

On 2017-07-30 by Brad

Will a new Rheem condenser unit outside under patio ,what is maximum or minimum clearance to honer warranty when installed. Also is warranty covered using a nother 1 year old A-coil

On 2017-06-19 21: by George

my HVAC unit is in the attic...is there a minimum amount of decked work area that should be in front of the unit?

On 2017-06-06 by (mod) - Codes on general clearance & working distances around the compressor/condenser

Tabitha

You didn't give me any distances; certainly I'd rather see the compressor/condenser between two windows than under a window where if you open the window you might get hot air blowing up towards that opening.

You'll see in the article above that installation instructions generally tell the installer to keep the unit away from windows, though specific distances may not be given.

Generally I'd expect to see 36" working clearance distance in front of the electrical connections

No less than 12" distance to the building wall

4-5 ft. above the unit to any overhead obstruction

No less than 30" of working space in front of the unit and along the side that gives access to the unit electrical or refrigerant components & panels

Looking at the 2006 IRC as a model code here are some explicit citations

2006 IRC PP M1305.1 Appliance access for inspection service, repair and replacement. Appliances shall be accessible for inspection, service, repair and replacement without removing permanent construction, other appliances, or any other piping or ducts not connected to the appliance being inspected, serviced, repaired or replaced.

A level working space at least 30 inches deep and 30 inches wide (762 mm by 762 mm) shall be provided in front of the control side to service an appliance. Installation of room heaters shall be permitted with at least an 18-inch (457 mm) working space. A platform shall not be required for room heaters.

Here are some model code details:

2008 NEC PP 110.26 Spaces About Electrical Equipment.

Sufficient access and working space shall be provided and maintained about all electrical equipment to permit ready and safe operation and maintenance of such equipment.
(A) Working Space. Working space for equipment operating at 600 volts, nominal, or less to ground and likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while energized shall comply with the dimensions of 110.26(A)(1), (A)(2), and (A)(3) or as required or permitted elsewhere in this Code.

2006 IRC PP E3305.2 Working clearances for energized equipment and panelboards.

Except as otherwise specified in Chapters 33 through 42, the dimension of the working space in the direction of access to panelboards and live parts likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing or maintenance while energized shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in depth.

Distances shall be measured from the energized parts where such parts are exposed or from the enclosure front or opening where such parts are enclosed. In addition to the 36-inch dimension (914 mm), the work space shall not be less than 30 inches (762 mm) wide in front of the electrical equipment and not less than the width of such equipment.

The work space shall be clear and shall extend from the floor or platform to a height of 6.5 feet (1981 mm). In all cases, the work space shall allow at least a 90-degree opening of equipment doors or hinged panels.

Equipment associated with the electrical installation located above or below the electrical equipment shall be permitted to extend not more than 6 inches (152 mm) beyond the front of the electrical equipment.

On 2017-06-06 by Tabiitha

We are purchasing a new construction him and the builder placed the ac condesor ground unit in between two windows. Is this allowed?

On 2017-04-14 by (mod) -

Linda

I used the InspectApedia website search box just above to search for "gas chimney clearances" to find

CHIMNEY HEIGHT & CLEARANCE CODE at https://inspectapedia.com/chimneys/Chimney_Height_Codes_Specifications.php

On 2017-04-14 by Linda

How far does a gas fireplace flue need to be from the A/C heat unit that is installed on the roof.

On 2017-04-03 by (mod) -

Thanks Paul, do let me know what you're told - as what you learn will help other readers.

Daniel

On 2017-04-03 by Paul

Hey thanks a lot for all of your effort, I really appreciate it. I will give Friedrich a call asap.

On 2017-04-02 by (mod) -

Paul I am sorry I don't know an exact answer right-off myself.

Putting two units into the same room should not make an iota of difference in the actual equipment operation, but I could imagine that there could be a problem with confusion in using the remote control. My experience with other brands in which we installed two split system indoor units in two different rooms, either remote for either unit would work on the other.

Often (brand/model dependent) on the bottom of the indoor wall-mounted air handler there is a switch that will turn off response to the remote control - I'd start by turning one of the units onto manual - no remote. Then see if you can work one with its remote.
Take the batteries out of the second remote.
Then see if the one remote will operate both units.
If not you'll need to take care when using matched-to-unit remotes (doubtful) that only one unit sees one remote - by distance and aim.

The problem COULD be in fact trying to start both wall units at the same instant - Some split systems that support multiple wall units actually contain multiple compressors, loops of refrigerant, and sets of controls. In that case you'd think there'd be no control problems, even starting two at once. But if your system uses a single compressor its controls may not like that situation.

I looked at Friedrich's manuals and found not a jot of information about using the remote control nor about switches on the wall unit itself. There is a remote control operations page in some of their manuals.
But no discussion of remote control interference.

www.friedrich.com/contact-us provides a form as well as direct contact information if you want to try giving Friedrich a call
Friedrich
10001 Reunion Place, Ste. 500
San Antonio, Texas 78216 USA
(210) 546-0500
(800) 541-6645

On 2017-04-02 by Paul

Yes thanks, I have the books and they don't mention anything helpful in this case.

I have downloaded the service manual it too is not helpful. If I hook up each unit separately they work just fine. It's not until they are both wired up that the problem arises. I have been doing searches on the web and I cannot find any info or even a reference to having 2 units in the same room.

I must be the first person in the world to try to put two indoor units in the same room. Btw one remote controller turns them both on and off. I was wondering if there are switches in the remotes so a remote will control only one indoor unit? Like a wireless doorbell has.

On 2017-04-01 by (mod) - ductless split system AC error code after adding a zone

Hi, do you have a copy of the installation and operation manual for your air conditioner? If so the error codes will be diagnosed in the back of that book. If you don't have it we can help you try to look for a copy.

On 2017-04-01 by Paul

I installed a ductless split system in my house and it worked fine but when summer hit it was not enough. I live in Phoenix we get 120 here and that is not an exaggeration.

So then I installed a second zone near the first (about 13 ft away) and now I get error code 4 blinks on cooling light, two blinks on heating light. is there a way to make this work? I have a Multi zone (3 but only using 2 zones) Friedrich Model MW12Y3J

On 2017-03-18 y (mod) -

Anon

Besides the clearance distances given above, I've not seen an explicit code/guide for A/C compressor/condenser unit distance to "a generator" - presuming you're talking about a fossil-fuel fired generator you of course wouldn't want exhaust heat or potentially corrosive fumes to affect the equipment.

On 2017-03-17 by Anonymous

how close to a generator can an a/c unit be

On 2016-12-17 by (mod) -

Gary,

Let's start by finding the installation manual for your specific heat pump brand and model. The manufacturer will tell you what are the minimum allowed clearances above and at the sides of the unit.

Typically you'd want at least 4 ft. above the unit, and you need to preserve clearance space for service and repairs. Typical clearance distances are given above.

On 2016-12-17 by Gary

Wanting to put a roof over my heat pump. If I go 3'above and come down on two sides 3' with a wall will this be ok.

On 2016-11-03 by anonymous

Is this possible to install outdoor unit of split ac horizontally in place of vertically

On 2016-10-22 by (mod) - parking distance to an A/C compressor

Anon,

I've not seen a specification for parking distance to an A/C compressor, but certainly the compressor/condenser unit needs to be protected from being smashed by a vehicle driven by Leadfoot Louie or Brakeless Beatrice. Other than smash-up protection, 5 ft. should be safe in my OPINION

see PROTECTION BOLLARDS for MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT

On 2016-10-22 by Anonymous

What is safest distance to park a vehicle near by A/C compressor

On 2016-10-13 by Touseef khan

How we do the installation of copper pipe if the compressor is 60 feet away from the indoor unit

On 2016-08-25 by Sarah

I have a fence 40 inches in front of my unit. The top is clear all the way and I removed a hedge bush to the left of my unit. Should this be adequate for circulatio?

On 2016-08-06 by (mod) -

I don't know, Abby. I'd find the installation manual for the the brand + model number of your specific Carrier AC unit (check the unit data tag for model No.). There you will find the minimum clearance distances the unit requires.

On 2016-08-05 by abby

I have a slim Carrier AC unit. The fan side is facing the wall and is positioned about a foot from the wall. Is it ok that the fan is on the wall side?

On 2016-07-13 by (mod) -

George: it's completely reasonable to ask about the impact on the cooling or heating capacity of a system that has to force supply or return air through long duct runs.

A proper system design, however, takes into account the length, size, insulation, of the duct, the size of the areas being heated or cooled, the building's heat gain or heat loss rate (e.g. how well the home is insulated, how much air leakage there is, how many windows there are), climate region, and then sizes the BTUh of the system and the blower fan size and speed accordingly.

So with that rough and incomplete outline of how an HVAC designer approaches the question of sizing an A/C or heating system for a building,

IF you are finding that the A/C cooling capacity is inadequate,

THEN it would be entirely appropriate to have the system and its design evaluated to figure out if the problem is one of maintenance ( a dirty filter, crimped or leaky duct, dirty blower fan), or one of design (inadequate duct work, blower too small, etc.)

On 2016-07-12 by George

Ok maybe I don't understand how it works. Was wondering about the loss between the A/C unit and the furnace. Being that the line that is used to transfer the air from the A/C to the actual furnace is almost the whole length of the house. Hope that's a little better of an explaination.

On 2016-07-12 by (mod) -

George I'm not clear on the question.

If you are asking about cooling loss due to having to push cool air through a long run of ductwork, if the blower unit and the ductwork are properly sized, insulated, and supported (not crimped or blocked) you should be OK.

If you're asking about the effect of refrigerant piping distance, no the only effect that'd have would be a requirement to get the proper initial refrigerant charge quantity to allow for additional length of refrigerant piping, and, of course, proper insulation and protection of the piping.

On 2016-07-12 1 by George

Just a quick question. My A/C unit is at the back of the house and the forced air furnace is about 40' away from it. Would this cause a problem with any kind of cooling loss due to the distance that is traveled?

On 2016-05-10 by (mod) - No units shall be placed between houses. This is safety fire zone. All units must be in backyard.

Thanks for your comment, Anon, but it sounds out of context: what units? What houses? Certainly in a more general sense it is entirely common to install compressor/condenser units outside. I suspect you are talking about a very specific condo or townhouse location whose fire access must be protected.

Other readers: do not confuse Anon's remarks for a too-broad guide on where HVAC equipment can be located.


Mel:

You have an interesting neighbor. You don't give distances: if there is not enough clearance distance between a compressor/condenser and its air intake or exhaust then it will work harder, longer, at greater expense, and have a shorter life than otherwise.

On 2016-05-10 by Anonymous

No units shall be placed between houses. This is safety fire zone. All units must be in backyard.

On 2016-04-29 by mel

My neighbor just installed two new air conditioners between our patio homes. One is blowing hot air on her house and one is blowing hot air on our house. Her air conditioning man has said this extremely hot air is good for our stucco.

We disagree and have asked that they turn the air conditioner blowing hot air on our house to blow on hers as the other does. Would this not make the units more efficient and also solve the dispute? We had cut down a portion of our fence to allow her units room to vent but have now put it back up to protect our property from this hot air. It has already killed our vegetation.

On 2017-02-21 by (mod) - OK to put the compressor/condenser under the mobile home?

I'm not sure how to answer "legal" questions as that's the decision of your local building code inspector, naomie.

But I'm doubtful that the installation is the best. The outdoor heat pump compressor/condenser unit needs free air circulation and clearance space above and around it to work properly. Putting a compressor condenser unit udner a mobile home surrounded by a skirt is highly unlikely to be a proper installation.

Details are at https://InspectAPedia.com/aircond/HVAC_Clearance_Distances.php CLEARANCE DISTANCE, HVAC

On 2017-02-21 by naomie

I replaced my old hvac with an air handler and a heat pump, the air handler was installed under the mobile home is this legal ?

The question above was posted originally at DATA TAGS on AIR CONDITIONERS

Question: minum AC Condenser distance from building

(Mar 14, 2015) Anonymous said:

What is the minimum distance for a ac condensor from building?

Reply:

You will see several building clearance distancesd for A/C compressors, beginning at CLEARANCE DISTANCE, HVAC.

There is not one "right" number since as Mark Cramer says, " ... it depends" - in this case clearances are different for the condenser top, sides, and other building features. The smallest of any of these is 6"

Question: A/C clearance distance from ground

Oct 8, 2015) Dick said:
How high off the grounds does a mini split ductless heat pump have to be?

Reply:

I'm sorry to say, Dick that I have not found anyone specifying a minimum ground clearance distance; for example, a builder can if she wants, set the A/C condenser unit on a concrete slab that happens to be level with the surrounding soil - though that'd be odd.

Most pre-fab condenser unit support pads and site built support slabs I've seen put the unit at least 2" above grade, thus reducing the rate of rust and water entry into the bottom of the unit.

Question: A/C distance from the building vs. electromagnetic field (EMF) radiation hazards

(May 13, 2015) Carmen said:
Is there any radiation from it? there is one sitting outside of the master bedroom where there is a wall in between it and the bedside. I wonder how hard and the cost to change it to the kitchen side.

Reply:

Carmen,

If you are asking about electromagnetic fields created by the electrical equipment in an air conditioner compressor/condenser unit, sure there are modest electrical fields around just about any electrical equipment. The strength of the field falls off with the square of the distance

- in other words rather quickly. Unless you're sleeping or spending many hours a day with your head atop the air conditioning compressor, I'm doubtful that there's a measurable electromagnetic field where you are.

Search InspectApedia.com for EMF ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS & HUMAN EXPOSURE to read more explanation of this topic.

It is not at all likely to be cost-justified to move an outdoor A/C compressor unit across to the other side of a home to escape its normally-operating electromagnetic field.

Question: relationship of condenser/compressor location and icing problems

(Mar 1, 2015) Mike said:
It is 40 degrees outside and the fan on my packaged heat pump is frozen. This is the first winter since this unit was installed. I've been out two mornings (3am to 9am) defrosting the fan which is frozen to the sides and the fan guard on top of the unit.

The coils are not frozen up but there is a solid layer of ice in the bottom that covers the lower 2 inches of the coils and the drain holes which were completely clear the night before.

The ice begins and is thickest nearest the wall. I have to gently melt the ice off the guard, the fan and out of the bottom to uncover the drain holes with a water hose. This unit replaced another package.

This unit was supposed to be more efficient because it has a fan discharge on the top. The old unit had side discharge on three sides away from the house. The new unit was placed only 10 inches from the wall which puts the fan under the drip line of the roof. The old unit had 24 inches of clearance and no drip line issues.

The roof rain diverter only extends to cover the width of the old unit plus a foot on either side. The new unit is longer and the end not covered is (of course) where the fan sits. So that is something that must be addressed.

However, even if water is not dripping on the unit but there is significant moisture in the air, ice crystals will form from the fan to the side of the fan housing very quickly and will soon freeze up enough to prevent the fan from moving at all.

This only started the end of February and it was been below twenty several days earlier this winter (even though I live in SC). We even had several inches of snow in November. I had no problems until now. As I said earlier, it is 40 degrees this morning. Any ideas?

Is the lack of clearance enough to have it moved to where the old unit was? Will the rain diverter cure the problem or is there more going on? Is the ice conducting the temp of the coils to the sides of the unit dropping it below freezing? Why did it just start now? (I took photos of the configuration and placement)ANY help is great!

Reply:

Mike

I agree that we don't like dumping roof spillage atop an A/C unit and it's also possible that the thicker ice nearer the building wall is an effect of differences in air circulation - or perhaps that's where more freezing water is falling from above.

Best: fix the roof drainage and ice dam problems so you're not draining onto the A/C unit.

Search InspectApedia.com (using the on page search box at page top or near the More Reading section at article end) for ICE DAMS and for GUTTERS to see how these problems can be avoided.

You might also construct a protective shed roof over the unit if needed - keep it no less than 48" above the compressor/condenser unit at the roof's lowest point.

Question: distance from condenser unit to a fence

(Jan 12, 2016) Rosanne said:
Distance of Fencing from Exhaust system around Infinity Series, Puron, by Carrier

Question: condenser unit on our deck makes things too hot - can we enclose it?

(Feb 3, 2016) Jim said:
Our condenser unit is on our enclosed deck. Because of the heat the unit gives off, our deck can get to 137F degrees even with all the windows open. We are in a high rise, do we cannot relocate the condenser. Can we build a box around it, leaving the window side open so that it can still get fresh air? How much higher should we make the box?

Rosanne: see Jim's question and reply above. And see the wall-clearance distances to A/C or heat pump compressor/condenser units at CLEARANCE DISTANCE, HVAC

Reply:

Jim: enclosing the compressor/condenser in a box is likely to increase its operating cost, decrease its efficiency, and shorten its life - ask your local HVAC service company to look at the distance requirements and airflow for your unit. You might, for excample, be able to design an enclosure spaced several feet away on all sides combined with providing an improved air intake from below.

Question: distance from compressor unit to a neighbour

What's the distance rule between neghbours house for air condition instatalatin
?

Reply:

Local codes may specify, but I've not seen that distance in the AC compressor/condenser installation guides I've reviewed; there are of course distances to building walls, corners, features.

Question: air conditioner compressor/condenser installed so high on the wall they used a cherry picker crane

(Feb 27, 2016) Rebekah said:
i recently had an air con installed at a property which is on the 3rd level. the technician had installed the compressor on the outer wall and required a cherry picker to do this. the compressor is out of reach and if any maintenance is ever required on it

i would need to arrange a cherry picker each time which would expensive. when i questioned this they advised me that they had it away from the the other occupants, would there be any other reason why they would do such a ridiculous thing

Reply:

This is, in my opinion, a horrible installation plan, though by no means unique. It means that when your A/C unit needs service or repair an extra cost will be involved to get the service tech up to the unit. Ugh

"Away from other occupants?" I suppose someone thought they were avoiding a noise complaint. But installing any mechanical system where it can't be serviced or inspected is in my opinion a very poor practice.

Question:

Mar 20, 2016) Anonymous said:
what is the minimum distance for copper tubing from evaporator to condensing unit?

Reply:

I don't know anon: I've not seen that specified. Can you name a specific A/C equipment brand and model whose installation manual one might check? Normally what's required is to adjust the refrigerant charge for longer refrigerant line runs or changes in line diameter.

...

Continue reading at CLEARANCE DISTANCE, HVAC or select a topic from the closely-related articles below, or see the complete ARTICLE INDEX.

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