Air conditioning units are a necessary part of homes and buildings in warm climates. However, they can be an eyesore and disrupt the overall look of your landscaping. The solution is simple: landscaping around your air conditioner. In this article, we will provide tips and ideas on how to landscape around your air conditioner while preserving its function and efficiency. From the importance of air conditioner landscaping to the key elements and mistakes to avoid, this article has got you covered.
Importance of Air Conditioner Landscaping
Unsightly outdoor HVAC units can detract from the beauty of your home and garden, but with the right landscaping, you can improve the appearance of your property while also helping your HVAC system operate more efficiently and reducing noise pollution.
If you are looking for ways to enhance the appearance of your outdoor compressor, consider some of the following landscape ideas:
Aesthetics and Curb Appeal
Air conditioners are often necessary, but they can easily become an eyesore. One of the easiest ways to address this is by incorporating plants, shrubs, and other landscaping features into your yard. Start by assessing the location of your air conditioning unit. Consider adding plants or a trellis to shield the unit from direct view if it’s in a prominent or visible spot. For example, planting a row of tall bushes or creating a garden pathway around your AC unit may enhance its appearance.
Noise Reduction
One of the most common complaints about air conditioning units is noise. When your air conditioner is running at full speed, it can create quite a bit of noise pollution, especially if it’s located near outdoor living spaces. Fortunately, you can reduce noise pollution by incorporating landscaping into your outdoor spaces. A well-placed fence or wall can act as a sound barrier, blocking out unwanted noise.
Increasing Efficiency
Did you know the landscaping around your air conditioning unit can affect efficiency?
Air conditioners rely on air currents to operate. In order for an air conditioner unit to pull enough air, there must be ample space around the equipment. Avoid overcrowding your ac system with plants that can grow towards it and/or leave a lot of debris.
Key Elements of Air Conditioner Landscaping
The typical air conditioning unit is not the most attractive fixture in your yard. It’s often a large, metallic box that sticks out like a sore thumb amidst your beautiful gardens and landscape. However, with a little bit of creativity and the right landscaping techniques, you can turn your air conditioning unit into an attractive feature that blends seamlessly with the rest of your outdoor space while still providing proper air circulation. Here are some key elements of air conditioner landscaping you need to know.
Choosing the Right Plants
One of the easiest ways to camouflage your air conditioning unit is by using plants to create coverage. However, it’s important to select the right plants that will serve their purpose without hindering the airflow around the unit.
Evergreen Shrubs: Evergreen shrubs are the perfect landscaping choice for hiding an air conditioning unit due to their dense and lush foliage, which would also provide year-round coverage. Examples include boxwood, holly, and laurel.
Ground Covers: Ground covers, such as sweet woodruff or creeping phlox, are perfect for more challenging small spaces, but you’ll want to make sure that you keep them from growing into your air conditioner.
Low-maintenance Perennials: Some low-maintenance perennials that are great options that do not obstruct the airflow would be hostas, ferns, and coral bells.
Proper Placement of Air Conditioner Units
The proper placement of your air conditioning unit is crucial to ensure efficiency, proper function, and a longer lifespan. If you are planning to build a new home or move the location of your existing system, you’ll want to be mindful of where your HVAC unit is located. Certain variable should be considered, including the proximity to the electrical box, where the unit will be best protected/shaded, and how close to a main living space (for sound purposes) it should be. Having the best ac location for your home can help to improve its lifespan and efficiency.
Easily Accessible Screens, Barriers, or Enclosures
Screens, barriers, or enclosures can provide an additional level of camouflage. The barrier should be designed in a way that does not block the airflow. Making your AC unit a part of your landscape will enhance your home’s appearance while increasing its air quality.
Air Conditioner Landscaping Mistakes to Avoid
When it comes to landscaping around your air conditioning unit, there are a few common mistakes that can significantly impact its efficiency and longevity. Here are some landscaping mistakes to avoid:
Impeding Airflow and Efficiency
One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is planting tall plants, shrubs, or trees too close to their air conditioning unit. While these plants can provide shade and create a visually appealing landscape, they can also obstruct airflow and reduce your AC unit’s efficiency. As air cannot flow freely to and from the unit, the system ends up working harder, leading to more energy consumption and, ultimately, higher bills.
Attracting Rodents
Having large, lush shrubs or trees near your air conditioner could attract rodents and other small creatures that are seeking shelter. These critters can wreak havoc on your air conditioner; mice are a common culprit of A/C malfunctions, as they are small enough to fit into the holes of your HVAC unit to build nests and ultimately chew through wires.
Neglecting Routine Maintenance Requirements
Another landscaping mistake that can impede your AC unit’s performance and efficiency is neglecting to routinely maintain your landscape. Failure to trim overgrown shrubs or debris and clean up fallen leaves or grass clippings from around your AC unit can cause blockage and clog up the fins and coils. This can significantly reduce your AC system’s efficiency and lifespan and lead to premature failure.
FAQs
Can you landscape around AC unit?
Yes, you can landscape around your AC unit. However, it is important to keep a clearance of at least 2-3 feet around the unit to ensure proper airflow and allow easy access for maintenance. Avoid planting trees or shrubs that could potentially grow into the unit or obstruct the airflow. Instead, opt for low-growing plants such as groundcovers or ornamental grasses. Additionally, avoid using mulch directly around the unit as it can impede airflow and potentially attract pests. A decorative fence or lattice can also help camouflage the unit while still providing easy access.
Should you put rocks or mulch around your air conditioner?
In most cases, it’s not harmful to put rocks or mulch around your air conditioner. Your air conditioner should sit on a level pad, whether made of concrete, plastic, or rubber, which should function to directly protect your unit from direct contact with landscaping materials. Rocks are likely a better option, as they will retain position better and not get swept away or blown into your air conditioner. It is best to refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations or consult with a professional HVAC technician regarding landscaping near your air conditioner.
What can I plant to hide my AC unit?
There are several plants that you can consider planting around your AC unit to hide it:
1. Bushes: Evergreen or deciduous bushes, such as boxwood, holly, and arborvitae, are good options as they grow dense and tall.
2. Shrubs: Flowering shrubs such as hydrangeas, rhododendrons, and azaleas can add color and beauty to the area while hiding the unit.
3. Grasses: Ornamental grasses such as feather reed grass and purple fountain grass can also add texture and interest to the space.
4. Trees: If there is enough space, planting a tree such as a magnolia or a dogwood near the AC unit can provide year-round coverage.
