Upgrade Landscaping Around the AC with These Seven Tips

Many homeowners prefer central air conditioning for their HVAC system, 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 eyesore? Proper landscaping should do the trick.

With the right visual barriers, you can conceal your AC unit and boost your yard’s appeal. Just be aware that there’s a right way and a wrong way to approach AC unit landscaping. Understanding the difference is crucial to maintain optimal AC performance.

Using Windbreaks to Protect Your AC Unit

Incorporating windbreaks into the AC system landscaping strategy protects the AC against harsh weather and storms. Evergreens are particularly effective as they retain their foliage even in winter. A few top choices for evergreen windbreaks include boxwood, junipers and Arborvitae.

When planted the proper distance apart, your shrubs create a dense barrier that protects the AC from high winds and flying debris. Just double check that your windbreak is planted far enough away to preserve that 2 to 3 feet of clearance as the shrubs grow.

Provide Shade

Even the high summer temperatures feel manageable when you step into the shade. You’re not the only one who feels the change—your air conditioner also benefits from shade.

If you can, position the unit on the north side of your home so it’s in perpetual shade. If that’s not an option, use tall trees 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.

Maintain Proper Plant Spacing

The first rule is to keep enough distance from the unit itself. Keeping plants at least 2 to 3 feet away from the cabinet is particularly important. As you know, plants keep growing every summer, so you should arrange shrubs 2 to 3 feet away once they are fully grown.

Keeping plants 2 to 3 feet away ensures your air conditioner has enough clearance for air circulation, a requirement for effective heat exhaust and optimal climate control. Ample clearance also prevents overworking your unit, which could lead to more breakdowns and a shorter service life.

Provide Flexibility with Large Potted Plants

If you’re concerned about these bushes encroaching on the AC unit as get bigger, try an alternative approach with large plants in containers. As long as they’re large enough, the pots and plants should cover the AC while contributing to a cooler yard. These stylish, easily rearranged elements allow you to modify the surroundings based on the time of year or as you try new looks. It’s just as simple to shift the pots slightly if the plants are getting especially full or move them aside during maintenance visits.

Try a Gravel Garden

For a simple, easy-care landscape solution, a gravel garden is another great choice. A gravel garden involves leaving your AC unit on a raised concrete platform surrounded by gravel interspersed with mulched beds of hardy, drought-resistant plants for added color and life. The benefits are clear: less yard maintenance, fewer weeds to pull and a stylish look that reduces maintenance all year.

Ensure Easy Access

Whatever landscaping choices you make, accessing your outdoor AC cabinet must remain clear. After all, regular maintenance and repairs encourage HVAC longevity and efficiency. Create the landscaping so technicians can easily reach the unit, which means not planting anything on one or two sides. This thoughtful detail will help your air conditioner function at its peak for years to come.

Incorporate a Trellis, Screen or Lattice

Not all solutions for concealing your air conditioner need to be entirely from Mother Nature herself. If you are short on space or worry about plants dying, try these alternatives:

• Install a portable screen to conceal it while preserving necessary ventilation. Check it has a door or detachable section for easy access.

• Build a trellis around your AC unit and grow climbing or vining plants for a natural screen that offers visual appeal and natural shade. Just make sure the vegetation doesn’t block airflow.

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

Schedule Professional AC Services

With your landscaping plans figured out, you can turn your attention to the air conditioner itself. If the unit is malfunctioning or it’s been a while since your last maintenance visit, call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our ACE-certified technicians provide quick, efficient and durable fixes to all your comfort challenges. For Expert service that lives up to our name, please contact us today.