Hiding Your Outdoor HVAC Unit Without Affecting Efficiency

Hiding the outdoor HVAC unit by enclosing it will improve the appearance of your backyard. Even though it’s a fairly easy job, there are some considerations to keep in mind as you design and build it.

The condenser needs plenty of air space around and above it to ensure it has ample air going through it. It needs no fewer than three feet around the condenser and two feet above the top if the condenser vents the hot air from the top. Blocking the airflow will reduce the system’s efficiency and drive up cooling bills.

Even with these limitations, there are plenty of ways to enclosure the condenser to improve the appearance of the yard.

Fences

The quickest and easiest way to enclose the outdoor HVAC unit is to use lattice materials available at home centers. UV resistant vinyl lattice is a good option that’s easy to handle, durable, termite-proof and inexpensive. You can either make your own supports for the enclosure, or buy them.

Custom fences that match the elevation of your home can be made from durable wood and treated for insects and moisture and sealed or painted.

Screens

Anchoring a screen around the most visible parts of the condenser will hide much of it from view and provide ample airflow around and over it. The screens will have to be anchored into the ground using footings that will hold up to strong winds and heavy rains.

Landscaping

Go natural with landscaping around the condenser. The best approach is to clear the ground around the condenser and spread landscaping gravel first. Choose bushes that won’t litter the ground with dead leaves, berries, or fruit, or grow tall enough to drop their leaves inside the condenser. When you prune, be sure to rake away the debris to prevent it from collecting near the condenser.

Hiding the outdoor HVAC unit will improve the look and feel of your yard if the condenser is visible. For more information and to schedule routine maintenance, contact the pros at CCAC, providing outstanding HVAC services for Coastal Bend homeowners.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Corpus Christi, Texas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about your HVAC system, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 361-678-2495.