If you don’t consider your HVAC system to be the most attractive piece of equipment, you might have tried to minimize its presence in your backyard décor by planting trees, flowers, and shrubs. If you’re not careful, though, overplanting can eventually cause HVAC malfunctions. Look for these signs that your Westminster, Maryland, backyard landscaping might be compromising your HVAC system’s performance.
The Landscaping Doesn’t Leave Enough Clearance
Whether you’re planting a row of shrubs, a low-lying flowerbed, or even some decorative grass around your outdoor air conditioning unit, you shouldn’t allow the landscaping elements to get too close to the HVAC system. HVAC experts generally advise homeowners to leave two to three feet of clearance around and above any outdoor units to keep air flowing freely.
If you have a healthy lawn, it’s generally fine to let the grass line get within a few inches of the outdoor unit. Just be sure to trim the grass at least once a week during the growing season, and never allow it to obstruct the air conditioner.
The Backyard Is Too Sunny
A sunny backyard is ideal for sunbathing and picnics, but this setting isn’t always ideal for an HVAC system. If your outdoor unit receives direct sunlight throughout the summer months, consider planting a large shrub or installing a garden trellis to shield it from the sun. Be sure to allow adequate overhead clearance, and you might find that a little shade goes a long way to lower your air conditioner maintenance and repair bills.
The Plants and Trees Leave Too Much Debris
Leafy trees and shrubs make a great addition to any backyard, but some are known for shedding all of their leaves the moment the season changes. Save yourself from constantly raking around the HVAC unit and removing leaves from the unit itself by planting evergreens or shrubs that hold onto their leaves year-round.
If you’ve let any of these landscaping issues go on for too long, you might need air conditioner repairs before your unit can function properly again. For inspections, maintenance, and repairs, call our cooling experts at Griffith Energy Services, Inc.: 888-474-3391.
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