Upgrade Landscaping Around Your AC System with These Seven Tips

Many homeowners want efficient central air conditioning these days, but the AC’s outdoor cabinet isn’t exactly the decorative centerpiece people like having in their yard. Are you looking for a cool, comfortable interior without spoiling the backyard with a big metal eyesore? Proper landscaping makes a big difference.

With the right visual barriers, you can hide your AC unit and enhance your yard’s appeal. Just be aware 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.

Implement Windbreaks for AC Protection

Incorporating windbreaks into the AC system landscaping strategy protects the air conditioner from severe weather. Evergreens work best since they keep their leaves all year-round. Some excellent choices for evergreen windbreaks include boxwood, junipers and Arborvitae.

When planted the proper distance apart, these plants create a dense barrier that blocks wind gusts carrying debris from reaching your AC. Just make sure your windbreak sits far enough back to maintain the necessary 2 to 3 feet of clearance as the hedgerow matures.

Create Shaded Areas

Even the high summer temperatures feel tolerable when you step into the shade. You’re not the only one who notices this difference—your air conditioner also benefits from shade.

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 rake leaves to keep debris from clogging the condenser.

Maintain Proper Plant Spacing

The first rule is to ensure adequate spacing from the unit itself. Keeping plants at least 2 to 3 feet away from the AC is essential. As you know, plants continue to grow every summer, so you should position shrubs 2 to 3 feet away once they are fully grown.

This spacing ensures the AC has enough airflow to “breathe”, a requirement for proper exhaust of heat and steady cooling. Adequate spacing 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 worried about shrubs encroaching on the AC unit as they mature, try an alternative approach with large container plants. As long as the pot is big enough, the pots and plants should cover the AC while still ensuring a cooler yard. These attractive, movable elements enable you to adapt the landscaping around your AC unit seasonally 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 might be perfect. This approach involves placing your AC unit on a concrete base that’s elevated surrounded by gravel and plant beds of tough, drought-resistant plants for even more color and life. The rewards are clear: less lawn to mow, fewer weeds to pull and an enhanced look that simplifies your gardening chores all year.

Keep Access Unobstructed

Whatever landscaping choices you make, easy access to your AC unit must remain unblocked. After all, regular maintenance and repairs encourage HVAC longevity and efficiency. Design your landscaping so maintenance technicians can easily get to the air conditioner, which means not planting anything on one or two sides. Taking this care will help your air conditioner perform optimally for years longer.

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 alternatives:

• Set up a portable screen to cover up your air conditioner while preserving necessary airflow. Check it has a hinged panel or removable panel for convenient access.

• Set up a trellis around the outdoor cabinet and grow climbing or vining plants for a ‘green’ screen that offers visual appeal and natural shade. Just make sure the vegetation doesn’t restrict airflow.

• Install a decorative lattice 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.

Request Fast, Expert AC Services

With your landscaping plans figured out, you can prioritize the air conditioner itself. If the unit is not performing well or it’s been a while since your last maintenance visit, call Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts. Our certified technicians provide fast, effective and long-lasting solutions to all your HVAC issues. For Expert service that lives up to our name, please contact us today.