Create Great Landscaping Around the AC with These Seven Tips

Most homeowners want efficient central air conditioning for their homes, but the AC’s outdoor cabinet isn’t exactly the aesthetic feature people like having in their backyard. Are you looking for a better sense of comfort indoors without ruining the yard’s look with a big metal box? Thoughtful landscaping makes a big difference.

With the right screening options, you can cover your AC unit and boost your yard’s aesthetic. But try and remember that there’s a right way and a wrong way to approach AC unit landscaping. Knowing the distinction is crucial to maintain optimal AC performance.

Using Windbreaks to Protect Your AC Unit

Incorporating windbreaks into the AC system landscaping strategy shields the unit from thunderstorms and other extreme weather. Evergreens are ideal because they retain their foliage all year-round. Some excellent shrubs for evergreen windbreaks include boxwood, junipers and Arborvitae.

When planted the proper distance apart, your shrubs combine into a dense barrier that shields your AC unit from strong winds and blowing debris. Just make sure your windbreak sits far enough back to maintain the necessary 2 to 3 feet of clearance as the plants grow.

Create Shaded Areas

Even the hottest summer weather 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.

If you can, 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 blocking air circulation. Then, remember to regularly clear debris to keep debris from clogging the condenser.

Maintain Proper Plant Spacing

It’s a good start to keep enough distance from the unit itself. Clearing plants at least 2 to 3 feet away from the AC is essential. Don’t forget, plants continue to grow each year, so you should position shrubs 2 to 3 feet away once they mature.

Spacing plants 2 to 3 feet away ensures the AC has enough clearance for air circulation, a requirement for proper exhaust of heat and optimal climate control. Ample clearance also limits overworking your unit, which could lead to more breakdowns and a shorter service life.

Use Large Potted Plants for Adaptability

If you’re worried about shrubs encroaching on the AC unit as the years go by, pivot to large container plants. As long as they’re large enough, the pots and plants can easily cover the AC while still ensuring a cooler yard. These attractive, modular elements enable you to change the landscaping according to the season or as your aesthetic changes. It’s also easy to shift the pots slightly if the plants get too big or keep them out of the way during servicing.

Try a Gravel Garden

For a low-maintenance landscape solution, a gravel garden could be ideal. This kind of garden involves leaving your AC unit on a concrete pad surrounded by gravel and plant beds of resilient, drought-resistant plants for extra color and life. The benefits are clear: less lawn to mow, fewer weeds to manage and a stylish look that simplifies your gardening chores all year.

Ensure Easy Access

Regardless of the landscaping choices you make, accessing 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 technicians can easily access the AC, which means not planting anything on one or two sides. Taking this care will help your air conditioner operate efficiently for years to come.

Incorporate a Trellis, Screen or Lattice

Not all solutions for concealing your air conditioner need to be entirely made from nature itself. If you lack space or worry about plants dying, try these other methods:

• Set up a freestanding screen to conceal it while ensuring the necessary ventilation. Double check it has a hinged panel or easily removed part for easy access.

• Set up a trellis around the unit and grow vines for a ‘green’ screen that adds beauty and shade. Just make sure the vegetation doesn’t overcrowd airflow.

• Add a lattice box 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 restrict circulation.

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 quick, efficient and durable fixes to all your comfort challenges. For Expert service that lives up to our name, please contact us today.