Enhance Landscaping Around the AC with These Seven Tips

Most homeowners want efficient central air conditioning for their homes, but the outdoor AC isn’t exactly the aesthetic feature people want in their yard. Do you need a more comfortable home without ruining the yard’s look with a big metal box? Thoughtful 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. Knowing the distinction is crucial to keep your air conditioner running smoothly and efficiently.

Implement Windbreaks for AC Protection

Placing windbreaks into the AC system landscaping strategy protects the AC against harsh weather and storms. Evergreens are particularly effective since they retain their foliage even in winter. Some excellent species for evergreen windbreaks include boxwood, junipers and Arborvitae.

If planted the right distance apart, your shrubs combine into a dense barrier that protects the AC from high winds and flying debris. Just make sure your windbreak sits far enough back to preserve that 2 to 3 feet of clearance as the plants grow.

Ensure Shade

Even the scorching summer heat feels tolerable when you step into the shade. You’re not the only one who notices this difference—your air conditioner also appreciates being out of the sun.

When doable, place the AC on the north side of your home so it’s in constant shadow. If that’s not an option, use privacy hedges 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 rake leaves to keep debris from clogging the condenser.

Space Plants Properly

The first rule is to maintain proper clearance from the unit itself. Moving the plants at least 2 to 3 feet away from the AC is especially worthwhile. Don’t forget, plants keep growing every year, so you should arrange shrubs 2 to 3 feet away as soon as they reach maturity.

Keeping plants 2 to 3 feet away ensures your AC system has sufficient ventilation to function, a requirement for effective heat exhaust and steady cooling. Adequate spacing also prevents overworking your unit, which could lead to more malfunctions and a shorter life span.

Provide Flexibility with Large Potted Plants

If you’re concerned about these bushes encroaching on the AC unit as get bigger, pivot to large potted plants. As long as they are big enough, the pots and plants should conceal the air conditioner while still ensuring a cooler yard. These stylish, movable elements help you to change the landscaping according to the season or as you try new looks. It’s just as simple to adjust the placement if the plants are getting big or relocate them while maintenance is being done.

Implement a Gravel Garden

For a simple, easy-care landscape solution, a gravel garden is another great choice. A gravel garden involves keeping the AC unit on a concrete base that’s elevated surrounded by gravel and mulched beds of tough, drought-resistant plants for even more color and life. The benefits for your yard are clear: less yard maintenance, fewer weeds to pull and an enhanced look that makes garden care easier all year.

Keep Access Unobstructed

No matter the landscaping choices you make, access to your AC unit must remain clear. After all, regular maintenance and repairs are vital for HVAC longevity and efficiency. Build up your home’s landscaping so service technicians can easily get to the air conditioner, which means not planting anything on one or two sides. Keeping this in mind will help your air conditioner operate efficiently for as long as possible.

Use a Trellis, Screen or Lattice Cover

Not all solutions for covering your AC system need to be entirely made from nature itself. If you are short on space or worry about plants dying, try these other options:

• Set up a portable screen to cover up your air conditioner while ensuring the necessary air circulation. Double check it has a hinged panel or easily removed part for convenient access.

• Set up a trellis around the outdoor cabinet and grow climbing plants for a natural screen that adds beauty and shade. Just make sure the vegetation doesn’t restrict airflow.

• Add a lattice box for a decorative solution that blends the aesthetics of a trellis with the functionality of a screen. Refrain from adding a top cover, or that will block ventilation.

Schedule Your Professional Air Conditioning Services

With your landscaping plans figured out, you can focus on the air conditioner itself. If the unit is acting up or it’s been a while since your last maintenance visit, call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. Our ACE-certified technicians provide prompt, effective and lasting results to all your comfort challenges. For Expert service that meets our high standards, please contact us today.