How to Landscape Around Your Residential HVAC Equipment

1. Give the Unit Enough Space

To work correctly, the refrigerant inside your air conditioner needs to absorb heat inside the home, then release it outside. This process relies on free airflow to carry the extra heat away. If the unit is crowded or covered by structures, plants, yard tools, or other objects, it won’t work correctly. 

Leave about 2 to 3 feet of space on all sides of the unit and at least 5 feet above it. The exact space requirements of each model of air conditioner can be found in the owner’s manual.

2. Screen It From View

To keep the landscape around your residential HVAC equipment beautiful, you can use attractive features to hide the unit. You might plant trees or bushes around it, place a trellis in front of it, or build raised flower beds surrounding it. 

Remember to leave enough space for airflow, and also ensure there's a way for an HVAC contractor to access the unit for maintenance. You might need to leave a clear path to the unit or keep any plants in pots so that you can move them.

3. Create Shade

Direct sunlight can make it difficult for your AC unit to release heat. Shade keeps it cool so that it works more efficiently. While you can create shade with a tall hedge or a nearby tree, keep in mind that most plants will drop leaves and other debris, which you may need to clean out of the unit’s vents occasionally. For ease of maintenance, choose an evergreen that doesn’t shed its needles, or use a constructed open shelter instead of a plant.

If you need a residential HVAC contractor to install a new air conditioner, choose ADE Heating and Cooling in Forked River, NJ. For over 30 years, this family-owned and -operated company has provided reliable heating and cooling systems to homeowners. They offer equipment from some of the top HVAC brands, such as Honeywell®, and include warranties on all their work. Call (609) 693-6050 or reach out online to schedule an installation.

NJ Master HVACR Lic # 19HC00136200

NJ Master HVACR Lic # 19HC00400200

NJ Master Plumbing Lic # 36B100668500