As a homeowner, you probably love the comfort that your HVAC system provides. It keeps you comfortably cool in the height of summer and cozy on colder winter nights. However, you might not love how the outdoor unit looks in your yard! The good news is that there are a number of ways you can use landscaping to improve the appearance of your outdoor space without negatively impacting your HVAC unit. Check out these tips from your local HVAC company in Knoxville.
Fencing or Walls
One of the easiest ways to disguise your outdoor HVAC unit is to put a fence or wall around it! You can choose fencing in a style that matches other fencing in your yard, or that will suit the architectural style of your home so that it isn’t going to look out of place. Fences can easily be stained or painted to match other colors used in your property. If you don’t like the idea of a fence, you might want to opt for a brick or stone wall that ties in with the materials used to build your home. One word of caution - make sure that whether you use a fence or a wall, there is a gap or gate to allow access for your HVAC company in Knoxville to perform maintenance when necessary.
Plants & Shrubs
Plants, shrubs, and hedges can cleverly disguise your HVAC unit. If you choose an evergreen plant, you will enjoy year-round coverage that keeps your unit hidden from view. Hedges are a popular option as they can be trimmed and shaped however you choose. Another popular option is to have a trellis that can be used with climbing plants such as ivy, grapevine, honeysuckle, or clematis.
It is important to make the right choices regarding the plants and shrubs you place around your HVAC unit. Keep in mind that there will be constant warm air blowing from the unit, so you need to make sure that the plants you have chosen will thrive in those conditions! You also want to avoid plants that drop flowers and seeds, which can cause the unit to clog. Evergreen shrubs, ornamental grasses, and hardy perennials are all excellent choices. It is important to regularly trim and maintain the plants to minimize the amount of debris collecting around the HVAC unit.
PRO TIP! - Avoid plants that lose their leaves, as these can easily get caught in the HVAC unit and cause damage. They also mean you will have to rake the leaves during the Fall season. Why give yourself that additional work?
Use Mulch to Prevent Weed Growth
One significant hazard for your HVAC Unit is weeds! When weeds get too out of control, they can start to cause obstruction, which will not only decrease airflow but also make access difficult when your HVAC company in Knoxville needs to carry out maintenance. Adding mulch around the unit is a great way to prevent weed growth, and it can also help regulate soil temperature and retain moisture for nearby plants.
Remember to Maintain Adequate Clearance
As we have noted above, weeds can block airflow, which is crucial for your HVAC to operate efficiently. However, weeds are not the only things that can block your HVAC. You also need to make sure that long grass, twigs, flowers, and seeds are not getting clogged in the HVAC unit. You will want to make sure that you allow 2 to 3 feet of clearance on every side of the unit, as this will help to prevent obstructions.
Be Mindful When Watering
It is important to think about your irrigation system or watering routine. You need to make sure that if you are using sprinklers, they do not spray water directly onto the HVAC unit. Any excess moisture can cause rust and other types of damage that an HVAC company in Knoxville will need to work on. Drip irrigation systems are a great way to water plants that are close to your HVAC unit without damaging it.
Landscaping around your HVAC unit requires balancing aesthetic considerations and practical maintenance needs. By following these tips from your local HVAC company in Knoxville, you can create a beautiful yard that enhances your home’s curb appeal while ensuring your HVAC system runs efficiently. Remember, a well-maintained landscape not only looks great but also contributes to the longevity and performance of your HVAC unit. Happy landscaping!
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Gent Heating and Cooling provide heating and air conditioning for residential and commercial clients in Knoxville, Knox County, and the surrounding East Tennessee area. Over 20 Years experience. Customer Service is Our Top Priority. We strive to be on time, provide accurate estimates, and have most replacement products on our service vehicles.
Call 865-213-3818 or email office@genthvac.com
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