Building A Deck Over An Air Conditioner. Sometimes an existing air conditioning unit is installed in the location where you want to build a new deck. Most AC manufacturers recommend maintaining a minimum 60″ uninterrupted clearance above the compressor to allow for hot air to exhaust from the top of the unit.Click to see full answer. In this manner, how much space do you need around an air conditioner?As a general rule of thumb, it’s good to have at least 12-inches of air conditioner clearance on all sides of your AC unit. “I live by a rule of 1-foot on all sides as the absolute minimum for shrubbery and the back of the unit facing the house,” says Keith Hill, technical support manager at Minnesota Air.Secondly, can I cover my AC unit? For one, a cover simply won’t protect your air-conditioning unit from moisture, which builds up naturally due to humidity and can trigger the growth of mold. Additionally, totally covering your AC unit makes it a prime location for rodents to take shelter from the elements, as it offers a barrier from snow and cold. Consequently, how much does it cost to move an air conditioner? Depending on the length of the move, with parts and labor, it could cost $500-$750 or more. So if you plan on moving your unit due to remodeling, renovations or other circumstances, keep in mind there is an extra cost associated with doing so.How much clearance does a condenser need?The most common clearance requirement is 12″ between one condenser unit and anything that blocks or restricts the air, and that twice that (24″) between to units.