Landscaping around your outdoor AC unit looks better and can make your system more efficient.

How to Landscape Around Your Outdoor AC Unit

Posted: July 29, 2022 at 8:40 am
By: Lakes Region HVAC

Most homeowners invest a lot of time and effort into creating a home and garden that suits their taste. Looking at an HVAC unit is not usually a part of that vision. However, there are ways to landscape around an outdoor air conditioning unit that are aesthetically appealing and can actually enhance the functionality of your AC.

There are three main aspects of landscaping around your HVAC system to consider:

  1. Aesthetic: Your AC unit does not have to detract from the beauty of your home. In fact, many options can enhance your lawn or garden!

  2. Safety: Certain precautions are necessary and must be worked around to prevent overheating and proper air flow. A good rule of thumb is to place the unit at least two to three feet away from any wall, fence, tree, unit, or obstruction of any kind. Additionally, nothing should hang over the top of the unit closer than five feet.

  3. Convenience: It might be tempting to hide your unit somewhere behind lots of trees and foliage, but you and your service technician will need to be able to access the unit easily for routine maintenance and repairs. A great choice would be anything that also creates shade to minimize radiant heat, as well as windbreaks to ensure the least amount of wear and tear during storms. To read tips on how to keep your HVAC system safe during major storms read our blog here.

Hiding condensers with large, moveable potted plants is a good option for homeowners.

Effective Landscaping Options

When designing or altering your landscape, these options can help hide your condenser from sight while protecting it from the intense summer sun and New Hampshire storms.

  • Trellis: Trellises block the wind and are easy to get behind when you need to access the unit.

  • Gated Fence: This option creates the easiest access to the unit and provides protection from the elements.

  • Gravel Garden: This is a low-maintenance solution that also helps keep yard debris away from the condenser. 

  • Potted Plants: Try to choose plants and pots that won't be difficult to lift in order to avoid any difficulties when maintenance is necessary. This is a great option for people who like to have a variety of plants and flowers from year to year.

  • Trees: Choose a variety of tree that does not create too much debris to avoid having to clean the top and around your unit often. An excellent option is evergreen trees that also serve as superior windbreakers for the AC unit.

  • Large Bushes or Shrubs: Be cautious when choosing this option, making sure that you still have access the unit even as they grow. Also, choosing plants without thorns (like roses) or prickly leaves (such as holly) is helpful when maintenance and repairs are required.

  • Awning: Having a barrier above the unit is an outstanding addition to your landscaping choices. Added protection from the sun, rain, wind, sticks, leaves, etc., while decreasing cleaning time and will extend the lifespan of your unit.

We always recommend that you get your air conditioner tuned every spring so we can ensure your system is functioning as efficiently and effectively as possible. To read more about how to save money on air conditioner tune-ups, read our blog here.


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Have another question? Contact the Lakes Region team, and we’ll find your solution.

Our clients are homeowners, small business owners, and corporations—and one could be you by calling 603-286-2290 or emailing info@lrhvac.com.

About Lakes Region HVAC
Since 1992

Lakes Region’s expert service technicians and installers are trained in the latest advancements in heating and cooling technologies. We'll help you select the correct comfort system for your home, ensuring that your equipment operates at the highest efficiency — giving you the lowest monthly operating cost.

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LRHVAC’s office hours: Monday - Friday 7:30-4:30
Phone: 603-286-2290
Mail: 86 Bay Hill Rd., Northfield, NH 03276
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