Create Great Landscaping Around Your AC System with These Seven Tips

Most homeowners want efficient central air conditioning for their HVAC system, but the AC’s outdoor cabinet isn’t exactly the aesthetic feature people want in their backyard. Are you looking for a more comfortable home without ruining the yard’s look with a big metal box? Proper landscaping will go a long way.

With the right screening options, you can tuck away your AC unit and boost your yard’s curb appeal. 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 ensure efficient AC operation.

Shield Your AC with Windbreaks

Incorporating windbreaks into the AC system landscaping strategy shields the unit from thunderstorms and other extreme weather. Evergreens are particularly effective since they retain their foliage through the 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 blocks wind gusts carrying debris from reaching your AC. Just double check that your windbreak sits far enough back to maintain the necessary 2 to 3 feet of clearance as the plants grow.

Provide Shade

Even the hottest summer weather feels manageable 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 constant shadow. 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 blocking air circulation. Then, remember to regularly clear debris to keep debris from clogging the condenser.

Space Plants Properly

The first rule is to maintain proper clearance from the unit itself. Keeping plants at least 2 to 3 feet away from the AC is essential. As you know, plants grow larger every year, so you should arrange shrubs 2 to 3 feet away once they mature.

This spacing ensures your AC system has enough ventilation to function, a requirement for effective heat exhaust and steady cooling. Adequate spacing also limits stressing your AC, which could lead to more breakdowns and a shorter life span.

Provide Flexibility with Large Potted Plants

If you’re concerned about these bushes encroaching on the AC unit as they mature, try an alternative approach with large container plants. As long as they’re large enough, the pots and plants should conceal the air conditioner while still ensuring a cooler yard. These decorative, movable elements help you to change the landscaping according to the season or as your aesthetic changes. It’s just as simple to shift the pots slightly if the plants are getting big or move them aside during maintenance visits.

Implement a Gravel Garden

For a low-maintenance landscape solution, a gravel garden is another great choice. A gravel garden involves placing your AC unit on a concrete base that’s elevated surrounded by gravel and gardens of tough, drought-resistant plants for added color and life. The rewards are clear: less lawn to mow, fewer weeds to manage and an attractive finished look that makes garden care easier all year.

Keep Access Unobstructed

No matter the 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 service technicians can easily access the AC, which means not planting anything on one or two sides. Taking this care will help your air conditioner perform optimally for as long as possible.

Employ a Trellis, Screen or Lattice for an Attractive Screen

Not all solutions for concealing your air conditioner need to be entirely from Mother Nature herself. If you lack space or are concerned about maintaining plants, try these other options:

• Install a movable screen to cover up your air conditioner while maintaining necessary ventilation. Make sure it has a gate or removable panel for convenient access.

• Build a trellis around the unit 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 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 in place, 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 A1 Chesney Service Experts. Our 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.