Should I Shade My AC Unit?
If your Air Conditioner unit is exposed to the sun all day with no shade, the efficiency of your unit can be impacted. The heat outside on a scorching day can interfere with the heat transfer in the unit.
Landscaping for shade around your house can reduce your cooling costs by 25% according to energy.gov.
In hot-humid climates like Oklahoma, landscaping should be designed to:
- Channel summer breezes toward the home.
- Maximize summer shade with trees that still allow penetration of low-angle winter sun.
- Avoid locating planting beds close to the home if they require frequent watering.
Deciduous trees with high, spreading crowns (i.e., leaves and branches) can be planted to the south of your home to provide maximum summertime roof shading. Trees with crowns lower to the ground are more appropriate to the west, where shade is needed from lower late afternoon sun angles.
To shade sidewalks and reduce radiant heat from the bare soil, plant ground cover, vines on a trellis, and hedges to provide shade to sidewalks and patio areas.
Care should be taken to avoid providing areas of high moisture which can cause problems with your home’s exterior as well as corrode your system. Keep shrubs and other plants away from the AC unit to prevent moisture buildup and debris.
Consult an experienced landscaper to help you plan out a good landscaping plan that will protect your home, shade your AC unit, while encouraging good airflow.
Should I Cover My AC Unit?
No! Covers could trap moisture and corrode your unit or hamper air flow. Any moisture buildup can make way for mold and other contaminants that will decrease your air conditioning efficiency.
Is Landscaping For Shade Worth It?
This all boils down to wanting to maintain your air conditioner and increase its efficiency and longevity – regular maintenance is essential to achieve this goal. Though shading your home can help keep temperatures down around your home and AC Unit, no amount of shade is going to be a substitute for regular maintenance performed by a professional like one of our skilled HVAC Technicians!
Contact The Norman, OK Air Conditioning Experts
Join our Comfort Club and never worry about your AC unit again. You will receive biannual AC Maintenance as well as an Annual Plumbing inspection and discounted service visits! Schedule service today!
