Hiding your air conditioning unit outside can be a great way to improve the curb appeal of your home. There are a number of ways to do this, depending on the size and shape of your unit and the surrounding landscape. In this article, we will discuss some of the most effective methods for hiding your AC unit outside. We will also provide tips on choosing the right materials and plants for the job.
One of the most popular ways to hide an AC unit is to build a privacy screen around it. This can be done using a variety of materials, such as wood, lattice, or bamboo. Privacy screens can be either freestanding or attached to the house. If you choose to build a freestanding privacy screen, be sure to use materials that are weather-resistant. You will also need to make sure that the screen is sturdy enough to withstand strong winds.
Another option for hiding an AC unit is to plant shrubs or trees around it. This can be a great way to add some greenery to your yard and create a more natural look. When choosing plants for this purpose, be sure to select ones that are appropriate for your climate and soil conditions. You will also need to make sure that the plants will not grow too large and block the airflow to the AC unit.
Landscaping for Concealment
Landscaping offers a myriad of options for effectively concealing your AC unit while enhancing the aesthetics of your outdoor space. Here are some creative ideas to consider:
Planting Trees and Shrubs
Planting tall, evergreen trees or shrubs around the perimeter of the AC unit can create an instant screen. Choose varieties that grow quickly, such as Leyland cypress, arborvitae, or bamboo. These plants will provide year-round coverage and can be trimmed to maintain a tidy appearance.
Alternatively, you can opt for deciduous trees that offer seasonal coverage. Japanese maples, for example, provide vibrant foliage in the spring and fall, while crape myrtles display colorful blooms in the summer months. This approach allows you to enjoy both concealment and visual interest throughout the year.
Tip:
To ensure adequate airflow for the AC unit, leave a buffer zone of at least 2 feet between the plants and the unit. Additionally, consider planting ground cover or low-growing shrubs around the base of the AC to further obscure its visibility.
| Plant Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Evergreen Trees | Year-round coverage, fast growth | Can block sunlight, may be expensive |
| Deciduous Trees | Seasonal coverage, visual interest | May shed leaves in fall, require more maintenance |
| Shrubs | Versatile, can be used for screening or borders | May require frequent trimming, may not provide full coverage |
Screening and Fencing
Screening and fencing offer effective and versatile methods to conceal an outdoor AC unit. These solutions provide both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits, blending the unit seamlessly into its surroundings.
Screening
Screening involves installing a lattice or mesh screen around the AC unit. Lattice screens, made of wood or vinyl, provide a decorative element while allowing air to circulate freely. Mesh screens, typically made of plastic or metal, offer a more subtle and transparent option, minimizing visual impact.
| Material | Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|
| Wood Lattice | Aesthetic appeal, durability, can be painted or stained | Requires maintenance, can rot or warp |
| Vinyl Lattice | Maintenance-free, weather-resistant, lightweight | Less durable than wood, limited color options |
| Plastic Mesh | Transparent, affordable, easy to install | Not as durable as other materials, can fade or tear |
| Metal Mesh | Durable, corrosion-resistant | Can be more expensive, can rust if not properly coated |
Fencing
Fencing around an AC unit creates a more substantial barrier, offering both privacy and protection. Vinyl fencing, popular for its durability and low maintenance, is a suitable choice. Wood fencing, with its natural aesthetic, can also blend well with the surroundings. Choose a fence height that complements the AC unit and provides adequate coverage.
Incorporating Vegetation
Using plants and vegetation to conceal your outdoor AC unit is an effective and visually appealing solution.
Choose the right plants: Opt for shrubs, ground covers, or small trees that are evergreen and relatively low-growing. Consider their mature size and ensure they won’t obstruct airflow to the unit.
Plant strategically: Create a dense screen around your AC unit by planting a variety of shrubs or ground covers, such as boxwood, hostas, or daylilies. Position larger shrubs behind smaller ones to provide depth and create a layered effect.
Consider a hedge: A well-maintained hedge of small, evergreen plants can be a tidy and effective way to conceal the unit. Choose plants like boxwood, privet, or wax myrtle, which respond well to pruning and shaping.
Utilize vertical space: If space is limited, consider using hanging baskets or trellises to add greenery. Vining plants, such as ivy or morning glories, can cascade down to cover the unit’s sides.
Create a privacy screen: For a more substantial barrier, construct a privacy screen using bamboo, latticework, or decorative panels. Plant climbing vines along the screen to create a living wall that both conceals the unit and adds greenery to your outdoor space.
| Plant Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Shrubs | Boxwood, Azaleas, Hydrangeas |
| Ground Covers | Hostas, Daylilies, Liriope |
| Small Trees | Japanese Maple, Crape Myrtle, Dogwood |
| Hanging Plants | Ivy, Morning Glories, Begonia |
| Vining Plants | Clematis, Honeysuckle, Jasmine |
Creative Camouflage
There are a number of creative ways to camouflage your AC unit outside. Here are a few ideas:
1. Build a fence or trellis around it.
This is a great way to hide your AC unit while also adding some extra privacy to your backyard. You can build the fence or trellis out of wood, vinyl, or even bamboo.
2. Plant tall shrubs or trees around it.
This is a more natural way to camouflage your AC unit. Choose plants that will grow tall and thick enough to hide the unit from view. Evergreen shrubs are a good option because they will provide year-round coverage.
3. Cover it with a decorative screen.
There are a number of decorative screens available on the market that can be used to hide your AC unit. These screens are typically made of wood, metal, or plastic and can be painted or stained to match your home’s exterior.
4. Build a planter box around it.
This is a great way to add some extra greenery to your backyard while also hiding your AC unit. Build the planter box out of wood or another durable material and fill it with soil and plants. You can even add a trellis to the planter box and grow climbing plants up it.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Hides the AC unit completely | Can be expensive to build |
| Adds extra privacy to the backyard | May require regular maintenance |
| Can be customized to match the home’s exterior | May not be suitable for all AC units |
Architectural Integration
Integrating the AC unit into the architectural design of your home ensures a seamless and visually appealing result. Here are some creative techniques to achieve this:
Camouflage
Incorporate the unit into existing structures such as walls, fences, or decks by painting it to match the surroundings and adding decorative elements like lattice or trellises.
Enclosures
Construct custom-built enclosures made of wood, metal, or vinyl around the unit to conceal it while providing ventilation.
Screens and Hedges
Install decorative screens or plant tall hedges around the unit to create visual barriers and soften its presence.
Vertical Gardens
Create a living wall of plants that cascades over the unit, transforming it into a focal point while providing shade and purifying the air.
Landscaping
Strategically place shrubs, trees, and boulders around the unit to create natural camouflage and enhance the overall aesthetics of the outdoor space.
| Technique | Description |
|---|---|
| Camouflage | Painting the unit to match the surroundings and adding decorative elements. |
| Enclosures | Constructing custom-built structures around the unit for concealment. |
| Screens and Hedges | Installing decorative screens or planting tall hedges to create visual barriers. |
| Vertical Gardens | Creating a living wall of plants that cascades over the unit. |
| Landscaping | Strategically placing plants and boulders around the unit for natural camouflage. |
Utilizing Ground Cover
Ground cover plants are a versatile way to conceal your AC unit while enhancing your outdoor space. They spread horizontally, forming a dense mat that effectively hides the unit’s unappealing structure. Choose low-maintenance varieties such as creeping Jenny, vinca, or ivy, which can tolerate the shade and humidity often found around AC units.
| Ground Cover Plant | Hardiness Zones | Sun Exposure | Height |
|---|---|---|---|
| Creeping Jenny | 4-9 | Partial to full shade | 2-4 inches |
| Vinca | 5-9 | Partial to full shade | 4-6 inches |
| Ivy | 4-9 | Partial to full shade | Varies depending on species |
| Type of Cover | Description |
|---|---|
| Wood Covers | Wood covers are a classic choice for AC units. They are durable, weather-resistant, and can be painted or stained to match the color of your home. |
| Vinyl Covers | Vinyl covers are a more affordable option than wood covers. They are also durable and weather-resistant, and they come in a variety of colors and styles. |
| Metal Covers | Metal covers are the most durable option, but they can also be the most expensive. They are weather-resistant and can be painted to match the color of your home. |
Utilizing Outdoor Furniture
Incorporate strategically placed outdoor furniture to conceal the AC unit. A large sofa, chairs, or a chaise lounge can act as a physical barrier, effectively hiding it from view. Consider choosing pieces with latticework or open designs to allow airflow while still maintaining privacy.
10. Cover with Latticework
Install a lattice framework around the AC unit, allowing climbing plants or vines to grow over it. The lush greenery will create a natural screen, camouflaging the AC unit. Choose plants known for their dense foliage and fast growth rate, such as ivy, clematis, or climbing roses.
| Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Natural and aesthetically pleasing | Maintenance required (watering, pruning) |
| Provides shade and additional greenery | May block airflow slightly |
| Durable and long-lasting | Can attract pests or insects |
How To Hide Ac Unit Outside
An air conditioning unit is a necessary appliance for many homes, but it can also be an eyesore. If you’re not happy with the look of your AC unit, there are a few things you can do to hide it.
One option is to build a fence or screen around the unit. This will help to conceal it from view and also protect it from the elements. You can also plant shrubs or flowers around the unit to help camouflage it. If you have a deck or patio, you can also use furniture or planters to hide the unit.
Another option is to install a condenser cover. These covers are designed to fit over the top of the unit and can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, or plastic. Condenser covers can help to improve the appearance of the unit and also protect it from the sun and rain.
People Also Ask
How can I hide my AC unit from my neighbor?
There are a few things you can do to hide your AC unit from your neighbor. One option is to build a fence or screen around the unit. You can also plant shrubs or flowers around the unit to help camouflage it. If you have a deck or patio, you can also use furniture or planters to hide the unit.
What is the best way to hide an AC unit?
The best way to hide an AC unit depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you have a small unit, you may be able to get away with simply planting shrubs or flowers around it. For larger units, you may need to build a fence or screen.
Can I use a condenser cover to hide my AC unit?
Yes, you can use a condenser cover to hide your AC unit. Condenser covers are designed to fit over the top of the unit and can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, or plastic. Condenser covers can help to improve the appearance of the unit and also protect it from the sun and rain.
