Lots of homeowners want efficient central air conditioning for their homes, but the outdoor AC isn’t exactly the decorative centerpiece people want in their yard. Do you need a cool, comfortable interior without ruining your outdoor living space with a big metal box? Effective landscaping should do the trick.
With the right screening options, you can conceal your AC unit and improve your yard’s aesthetic. Just be aware that there’s a right way and a wrong way to tackle AC unit landscaping. Understanding the difference is crucial to keep your air conditioner running smoothly and efficiently.
Shield Your AC with Windbreaks
Using windbreaks into the AC system landscaping strategy shields the unit from thunderstorms and other extreme weather. Evergreens are ideal since they retain their foliage all year-round. A few top choices for evergreen windbreaks include boxwood, junipers and Arborvitae.
When planted the proper distance apart, the shrubs combine into a dense barrier that blocks wind gusts carrying debris from reaching your AC. Just double check that your windbreak is planted far enough away to maintain the necessary 2 to 3 feet of clearance as the plants grow.
Create Shaded Areas
Even the scorching summer heat feels bearable when you step into the shade. You’re not the only one who appreciates the relief—your air conditioner also appreciates being out of the sun.
Whenever possible, place the AC on the north side of your home so it’s in perpetual shade. If that’s not an option, use large shrubs to your advantage. Just avoid placing plants directly over the unit. Maintaining vertical clearance of 5 to 6 feet prevents impeding ventilation. Then, remember to regularly clear debris to keep debris from clogging the condenser.
Maintain Proper Plant Spacing
The first rule is to keep enough distance from the unit itself. Moving the plants at least 2 to 3 feet away from the cabinet is especially worthwhile. Don't forget, plants continue to grow each year, so you should place shrubs 2 to 3 feet away once they reach maturity.
This spacing ensures your AC system has enough , a requirement for effective heat exhaust and efficient operation. Sufficient spacing also prevents straining your system, which could lead to more failures and a shorter service life.
Enhance Flexibility with Movable Potted Plants
If you don't want the bushes and shrubs overgrowing around the air conditioner as the years go by, pivot to large container plants. As long as the pot is big enough, the pots and plants can easily hide your AC unit while contributing to a cooler yard. These attractive, movable elements help you to modify the surroundings based on the time of year or as your aesthetic changes. It’s also easy to adjust the placement if the plants get too big or relocate them while maintenance is being done.
Try a Gravel Garden
For a more manageable landscape solution, a gravel garden is another great choice. This approach involves placing your AC unit on a concrete base that's elevated surrounded by gravel interspersed with gardens of hardy, drought-resistant plants for even more color and life. The rewards are clear: less grass to cut, fewer weeds to manage and a stylish look that reduces maintenance all year.
Ensure Easy Access
Whatever landscaping choices you make, accessing your AC unit must remain clear. After all, regular maintenance and repairs foster HVAC longevity and efficiency. Create the landscaping so technicians can easily access the AC, which means not planting anything on a couple of sides. Taking this care will help your air conditioner function at its peak for as long as possible.
Employ a Trellis, Screen or Lattice for an Attractive Screen
Not all solutions for covering your AC system need to be entirely green. If you lack space or are concerned about maintaining plants , try these other options:
- Set up a portable screen to cover up your air conditioner while preserving necessary ventilation. Check it has a hinged panel or detachable section for convenient access.
- Build a trellis around the unit and grow climbing plants for a ‘green' screen that enhances aesthetics and provides shade. Just make sure the vegetation doesn’t overcrowd airflow.
- Add a decorative lattice for a decorative solution that combines the aesthetics of a trellis with the functionality of a screen. Refrain from adding a top cover, or that will impede airflow.
Schedule Professional AC Services
With your landscaping plans sorted, you can focus on the air conditioner itself. If the unit is malfunctioning or it’s been a while since your last maintenance visit, call Service Experts. Our ACE-certified technicians provide quick, efficient and durable fixes to all your climate control problems. For Expert service that lives up to our name, please contact us today.
