The part of your air conditioning system located outside is called the condenser unit. It’s responsible for heat transfer and therefore plays a critical role in cooling your home. To ensure it continues to function well and reduce your odds of needing premature air conditioner repairs, it's important to take care of the area around the unit. Here are some useful tips for landscaping near your condenser.

Do:

Trim back shrubbery.

To perform the heat transfer process, the condenser pulls outdoor air in via a large fan. For this to happen, there must be adequate space around the unit. Ideally, you should keep nearby foliage trimmed at least 3 feet from the condenser. This will also give technicians enough clearance to perform air conditioner repairs. 

Ensure proper drainage.

Sitting in a puddle of water can cause your unit’s condenser coils to rust, which can impede the system’s efficiency. Make sure the condenser is placed in an area where water won’t collect on your property. You may need to situate it on an elevated concrete platform and ensure it’s not located near any downspouts, where water from your gutters runs down.

Don’t:

Place sprinklers nearby.

Excess water exposure can cause premature rust on other components of your unit, too. Test your sprinkler system by turning it on and monitoring where the water hits. 

Ideally, the spray shouldn’t come within several feet of the condenser. Likewise, be sure to avoid spraying the unit if you use a hose to water your grass or gardens. 

Construct hardscaping too close.

A stone wall, fence, or other outdoor feature can conceal your unit and protect it from curious pets or children. However, it's best to keep in mind that it will still need several feet surrounding it to receive adequate airflow and prevent overheating. You may also want to incorporate a gate into the barrier to provide easy access for air conditioner repairs. 

Even if you take care of your condenser unit, you may need air conditioner repairs or a seasonal tuneup for plenty of other reasons. When that happens, turn to Air Control Company. Serving Lexington, KY, this full-service heating and cooling contractor offers timely installations and repairs to the local community as well as emergency service. To request a free estimate, call (859) 253-1734. Learn more about their services online.