That's how neighbors should treat neighbors!™
Posted: May 9, 2022 by Andy
From Ashtabula to Ashland, spring is in full swing in Northeast Ohio! Like most homeowners, you've probably spent a lot of time tidying up your yard lately. But have you considered beautifying the area around your central air conditioning system's outside condenser unit?
Can you spot the air conditioner in the beautifully landscaped side yard above? Hint: look closely at the cleverly-placed lattice on the left side of the photo.
Landscaping around your AC unit is a great way to hide it from view without obstructing its airflow. If you're considering this option, know that there's a right way and a wrong way to do it.
Today's article will give you some tips on the ideal way to landscape around your condenser and enhance its efficiency. Before you start, though, it's essential to keep the unit accessible to technicians for seasonal check-ups and repairs.
Also, don't hesitate to call Hey Neighbor Heating & Cooling for all of your air conditioner repair needs. We're here for you, 24/7!
Generally speaking, the minimum planting distance is two to three feet away from your condenser, but planting further away is recommended. Remember, plants get larger over time. If you place plant life too close, the unit's airflow will be obstructed, which can cause:
• Decreased energy efficiency
• Shortened system life
• Increased repair frequency
All of these issues cost you more money. Choose your greenery wisely when considering the necessary distance. It's wise to avoid plants that shed branches and leaves or that will spread and grow too close to the condenser. Roots and debris make accessing your AC unit more difficult and obstruct its ventilation. Our technicians will thank you for keeping the area around your AC clear!
Your kids aren't the only ones trying to get out of the sun's heat in the summer. Adding plants that create shade over your AC unit will help it cool more efficiently.
That said, your AC only wants the shade. Avoid letting piles of leaves cover the system or allowing branches to hang low, restricting its airflow and potentially falling into the unit and causing damage. Debris in the condenser's fan area can prevent your AC system from turning on, which doesn't do your comfort any favors. A good rule is to allow at least five to six feet of clear space above your unit.
Do you want less grass to mow and fewer weeds to pull? What homeowner doesn't, right? If you long for minimal landscape maintenance, consider adding a gravel garden around your AC unit. It only takes a day or two to set up, and you can find everything you'll need at your local garden center.
Rocks and paver stones prevent weeds and other unwanted plants from growing near the air conditioner. That ground ivy may look pretty, but it'll choke the life out of your condenser unit!
We all know the weather here in Ohio can be unpredictable and often severe. Therefore, it's essential to protect your outdoor unit by using hedges and trees as natural shields while maintaining physical access to the air conditioner.
One way is to create a windbreak for protection from severe weather conditions with sturdy trees. You can do this with evergreen plants to block high winds. These hedges are ideal because they don't lose their leaves in the fall and are simple to maintain.
Another way is to install a lattice box or trellis. These decorative landscaping elements help redirect the air and prevent debris or tall grass from blocking the unit.
These options also help your air conditioner blend in better with the yard without the drudgery of tending to a flower bed.
It's smart to consider the growth rate and maturity when selecting shrubs, flowers, and other plants to place around your air conditioner. Avoid flowering plants that attract bees and wasps. These pests will nest inside your air conditioning unit, potentially causing damage to it. Also, avoid plants with thorns or sharp leaves like roses and holly because they can make it difficult and uncomfortable for technicians.
Finally, plant large trees carefully. Trees that shed their leaves in the fall will provide shade in the hot summer months, then allow sunlight in winter to keep your house warm and reduce the workload of your furnace. Evergreen plants aren't as tall, but they're great for landscaping around your AC system because they're attractive and help insulate your home.
The short answer is yes, but with careful planning. There are several ways you can enclose your AC unit without restricting access and airflow.
Consider a lattice box, trellis, or fence to hide the condenser from sight. These are all easy ways to conceal the unit but remember not to cover the top of the AC. It's also helpful to add a door, so your friendly Hey Neighbor Heating & Cooling technician can easily access the unit!
These open options can be laced with vines or other types of vegetation that make it hard to see if there's an AC unit there at all.
Clever use of shade, mulch, and other options for landscaping around your AC increases your home's curb appeal while safely hiding your AC unit. When following these landscaping tips, remember that you can find space recommendations in your AC unit owner's manual.
Discovered an issue with your AC condenser while landscaping? Don't wait to call Hey Neighbor Heating & Cooling for repair, installation, or tune-up service at your Northeast Ohio home. For convenience, you can also schedule online!
Beware Animal Hair! | Air Purifier Q&A
How To Set Your AC When You're Away | Save Money This Summer
My AC Won't Turn On! | The Benefits Of A Central AC System
8 Handy Spring Cleaning Tips | Can I Finance An HVAC System?
My Furnace Won't Turn Off! | Before You Buy A Smart Thermostat
How Much Insulation Do I Need? | How The Inflation Reduction Act Can Help You
HVAC Basics For New Homeowners | 5 Common Winter HVAC Problems
Programmable Thermostats 101 | Can A Furnace Catch Fire?
Staying Warm During Extremely Cold Weather | Is A Heat Pump Right For Me?
Is My Heater Broken? | Let's Talk About Carbon Monoxide
HVAC: Why It's A Great Career | Winter Storm Safety Tips
4 Tasks For The Pros & 3 To DIY | When Should I Replace My HVAC System?
How Does a Gas Furnace Work? | 6 Things To Know About Smart Thermostats
Do I Need A Humidifier? | These Mistakes Will Spike Your Energy Bill
How Long Will My Furnace Last? | All About Furnace Tune-Ups
How Does HVAC Zoning Work? | That Dirty Filter Is Costing You Money!
Thermostat Best Practices: Fan ON or AUTO? | Choosing The Right HVAC Equipment
10 Things To Do Before Using Your Furnace | What Affects Air Conditioning Efficiency?
Is Air Quality Worse In The Summer? | Keeping Your Upstairs Comfortable
The Dog Days Of Summer | Help! My AC Is Leaking Refrigerant!
Summer Furnace Upgrades Are Ideal | 4 Common AC Buying Mistakes
Remove Those Hot Spots! | Older ACs Can Be Health And Safety Hazards
Prepping Your AC For Summer | Help! My AC Is Leaking Water!
A Bigger AC Isn't Necessarily Better | Landscaping Best Practices Around Your AC Unit
How Old Is My Central AC System? | Whole-House Dehumidifiers Vs. Portable Units
Air Scrubbers And Why You Need Them | Why Is My Home's AC Not Running?
Turn On Your AC After Winter The Right Way | Stop Those Pesky Air Leaks!
Why Spring HVAC Maintenance Is Important | Copper AC Coils vs. Aluminum
Your Thermostat Can Save You Money | 6 Furnace Safety Features
Change Your Thermostat Batteries Yearly | Super Bowl Party Tips
How Your Gas Furnace Works | Winter Heating Safety Risks
Help! What's This Blinking Light Mean? | HVAC Maintenance Goals
New Year, New AC! | New Year's HVAC Resolutions
The 12 Days Of Safety | 7 Signs You Need A New Furnace
Trane Comfort Specialist - What It Means | Optimal Winter Thermostat Settings
Ideal Humidity = Ideal Comfort | Avoid Cold Spots In Your Home
Save Money This Winter | Beware Of HVAC Systems That Go Bump In The Night!
Is My Water Heater Dying? | 5 Reasons To Upgrade Your Thermostat
Debunking 7 Common Radon Myths | It's Annual Furnace Tune-Up Time!
HVAC Tips For Pet Owners | Fall HVAC Preparation Checklist
Back-To-School HVAC Maintenance | Let's Talk About Air Filters
How Does Central Air Conditioning Work? | Air Cleaners vs. Air Filters
4 Signs It's Time For A New AC | Exploring Your Central AC System
AC Repairs - Least & Most Expensive | Air Conditioning's Top 10 Benefits
Does My Water Heater Need Repaired Or Replaced? | Protect Your AC Condenser From Bad Weather
Air Purifiers 101 | 3 Factors That Affect AC Efficiency
Don't Let Mold Harm Your Home And Your Health | What Type Of Furnace Is Right For Me?
Add UV Lighting For Your Family's Health | Stop Wasting Energy!
Here's 5 Great Home Makeover Ideas For The New Year | New HVAC System On Your Christmas List?
5 Easy Tasks To Prepare Your Home For Winter | Let's Talk About Your Leaky Ductwork
Please Don't Cover Up Your Thermostat | Tame These HVAC Scares This Halloween
What Do All These Letters Mean? | 6 Easy, Affordable Ways To Boost Your Home's Value
Low Temperature = Quality Sleep | What Does HVAC Mean, And What Does It Stand For?
My AC Runs But Isn't Cold - What's Up? | Is Your AC Prepared For Summer's Thunderstorms?
Something's Wrong With My AC! | How Can I Afford A New Cooling System?
5 Easy Tasks To Prepare Your Home For Summer | The Problem With A Clogged Filter
5 AC Myths That Are Costing You Money | My Air Conditioner Smells Gross!
6 Signs It's Time For A New AC | 5 Easy DIY Projects While You're Social Distancing
Choosing The Right Thermostat | What Does SEER Mean?
5 Easy Tasks To Prepare Your Home For Spring | Improve Your Winter Air Quality
The R-22 Ban: Do I Need To Replace My AC? | 8 New Year's Resolutions For Your Family's Comfort
Using Your Programmable Thermostat Well | I Need A Quieter Furnace!
Know The Signs Of A Cracked Heat Exchanger | Carbon Monoxide FAQ
What's The Best Air Filter For My Allergies? | 14 Easy Ways To Winterize Your Home
What's Up With My Weird Thermostat? | A Yearly Furnace Tune-Up Is Essential - Here's Why
Window AC Units Can Be Dangerous! | Prevent Summer Weather From Damaging Your Home
Why Is My Air Conditioner So Loud? | Keeping Cool In Hot Weather
Is It Time To Replace My AC? | Central Air Is The Best Cooling Option
Is An HVAC Tune-Up Really Worth It? | Does My Air Conditioner Need Repaired?
How To Reduce Dust In Your Home | The Importance Of Annual AC Tune-Ups
Improve Your Indoor Air Quality | Reduce Allergens In Your Home
Warmer Weather And Your Thermostat | Prepare Your AC For The Season
Time To Replace Your Furnace? | Handling Extreme Cold Well
Home Insulation Saves You Money | Humidity Isn't Just A Summer Issue
My Furnace Won't Stay On! | How Long Should My HVAC Equipment Last?
Tricks To Stay Warm This Winter | Winterize Your HVAC System
Don't Close Those Vents! | Phew! Furnace Smells You Shouldn't Ignore
Leave Furnace Repair And Installs To Us | Preventative Maintenance Matters
4 Important Tasks Before You Use Your Furnace | Prepare Your Home For Fall And Winter
Caulk And Seal Like A Pro! | Dealing With Extreme Heat
Don't Neglect Your Furnace In The Summer! | Preventing And Dealing With Water Damage
Why You Should Test Your Air Quality | Smart HVAC Technology For Your Home
Keep Your Vents Clean And Stylish | Save Money With A Home Energy Audit
Why Is My AC System Blowing Warm Air? | Reduce Humidity To Stay Cool
Summer Energy-Saving Tips | Create An Allergy-Free Home
Is My Air Conditioner Low On Refrigerant? | 4 Essential HVAC Safety Tips
16 Easy Spring Tasks To Save You Money | My Air Conditioner Is So Noisy!
5 Ways To Stay Cool This Summer | 4 Common AC Problems
Spring Cleaning Checklist | The Importance Of A Clean AC Condenser Coil
Improve Your Home's Indoor Air Quality | Prepare Your Cooling System For Summer
Why Is This Room Warmer Than The Rest Of My Home? | Retire Your Old Thermostat
We're committed to providing fast friendly emergency service 24 hours a day 7 days a week for residential heating and air conditioning systems in Wooster, Millersburg and the surrounding areas.
Our 24-hour emergency on-call service means you'll never have to go through another cold winter night or a hot, humid summer day. We service residents of Wayne and Holmes counties with no after-hours or overtime fees, so you'll never have to worry about paying extra because your furnace or air conditioner decided it wanted to quit on the weekend or a holiday!
Our service trucks are ready for your emergency after-hours service call with over 5000 stocked parts so you don't have to wait for us to chase down the parts you need.
Fast and done right the first time
We'll keep your Wayne County furnace running smoothly, and we service gas and electric heaters, heat pumps, ductless mini-split systems and more. Our local, licensed, friendly HVAC technicians drive fully-stocked service vans so when we troubleshoot your Holmes County HVAC system and find a faulty part, we can replace it right then! Whatever you need in the area of heating and cooling repair in Wooster, Millersburg, and the surrounding areas, we've got you covered!
The right system for your home
Whether you're a homeowner in Rittman who's in the market for a new, high-efficiency furnace, a mobile home owner in Shreve who's tired of baking in the summertime or you're a property manager in Dalton looking to replace old, temperamental air conditioning systems in apartments with new reliable units, our experience enables us to quickly and accurately assess your HVAC needs. You'll get the new furnace install and central air conditioning upgrade that's right for you.
Protect your investment
While we don't mind visiting your home for a dead-of-winter breakdown (it's what we do), we want to help you avoid that unfortunate situation altogether. That's why we offer affordable Wayne and Holmes County seasonal HVAC maintenance to reduce the future need for heating and cooling repairs. Our thorough inspections catch little problems before they become big ones. An annual HVAC tune-up by one of our expert techs saves you money, time, and stress!
Pets are integral parts of countless people's lives. In fact, many of us treat our pets like beloved members of the family, and we strive to keep them well cared for. Naturally, pet hair... more...
When it comes to improving your home's indoor air quality (IAQ), air purifiers are an affordable and effective option. However, you probably have many questions about air purification... more...
Whether you're going to work for the day or you're going away on vacation for the month, you want to make sure you maximize your AC's efficiency. But how should you set your thermostat... more...
Wayne County, Ohio ~ Apple Creek, Ohio 44606 ~ Armstrong, Ohio 44214 ~ Burbank, Ohio 44214 ~ Burton City, Ohio 44667 ~ Congress, Ohio 44287 ~ Craigton, Ohio 44676 ~ Creston, Ohio 44217 ~ Dalton, Ohio 44618 ~ Doylestown, Ohio 44230 ~ Easton, Ohio 44270 ~ Fredericksburg, Ohio 44627 ~ Funk, Ohio 44691 ~ Kidron, Ohio 44636 ~ Lattasburg, Ohio 44287 ~ Marshallville, Ohio 44645 ~ Mount Eaton, Ohio 44569 ~ Orrville, Ohio 44667 ~ Pleasant Home, Ohio 44287 ~ Riceland, Ohio 44667 ~ Rittman, Ohio 44270 ~ Shreve, Ohio 44676 ~ Smithville, Ohio 44677 ~ Sterling, Ohio 44276 ~ West Salem, Ohio 44287 ~ Wooster, Ohio 44691 ~ and more!
Holmes County, Ohio ~ Baltic, Ohio 43804 ~ Becks Mills, Ohio 44654 ~ Berlin, Ohio 44654 ~ Charm, Ohio 44654 ~ Farmerstown, Ohio 43804 ~ Glenmont, Ohio 44628 ~ Holmesville, Ohio 44633 ~ Killbuck, Ohio 44637 ~ Lakeville, Ohio 44638 ~ Millersburg, Ohio 44654 ~ Mount Hope, Ohio 44627 ~ Nashville, Ohio 44611 ~ Saltillo, Ohio 44654 ~ Stillwell, Ohio 44637 ~ Trail, Ohio 44624 ~ Walnut Creek, Ohio 44681 ~ Winesburg, Ohio 44624 ~ and more!