Our air conditioning compressor units are essential to the comfort of the interior of our homes, however they don’t always compliment the exterior aesthetic so well. Landscaping and partitions are great ways to hide your A/C unit, however they must be placed properly in order to keep your unit running efficiently. Blocking airflow will shorten the life of the unit, reduce efficiency, and increase your electric bill. Always check with your HVAC unit manufacturer, however typically a two foot (24”) clearance on all sides is recommended.
Hide your A/C Unit with a Green or Structured screen
“Green” screen:
Plants and shrubs can be incorporated into your landscaping to camouflage your A/C unit. Popular options include Hydrangeas, Evergreens, and Dogwoods. Always be sure to estimate how large the plants will be at maturity and determine placement with a 24” minimum clearance in mind.
“Structured” screen:
A wood fence, a wrought iron fence, or even an “up”cycled window shutter can serve as a nice screen for your unit. Again, a 24” minimum clearance is key here, but a structured screen that allows additional air flow through openings is beneficial.
