Most of us groom our yards for curb appeal, but your landscape can significantly impact more than just your curb appeal; it can also affect your HVAC system. What you plant, where you plant it, and how you maintain your landscape can have a positive or negative impact on your HVAC system.
Your HVAC System Needs Breathing Room
Outdoor HVAC units require ample space to operate effectively. Your condenser can’t work correctly without sufficient airflow. Without adequate ventilation, your unit may struggle to transfer heat, requiring it to work harder to maintain its temperature. Over time, the increased strain can impact your system’s performance and reduce its lifespan. You will also likely notice an increase in your electricity bills.
You need at least 2 feet of space on all sides of your outdoor unit. You should not place decorative rocks, lawn ornaments, flowers, shrubs, or tall grass within this space.
Overgrown vegetation can block airflow and trap moisture, leading to various issues. Additionally, it can attract pests and clog your coils with dirt and debris, hindering your system’s function. Regular yard maintenance and thoughtful planning can protect your condenser from damage.
The Threat of Plants
Shrubs and trees can drop leaves or needles into your condenser coils. The buildup of organic material forces your system to run longer to cool at the same rate. The extra runtime increases energy usage and system wear and tear.
Wind can carry materials from your landscape, including grass clippings and mulch. These materials block airflow and can cause overheating and internal damage. In addition to blocked airflow, the trapped moisture can cause mold and mildew growth, which are corrosive to your system.
To avoid these problems, keep your shrubs, trees, and plants trimmed on a regular basis. Avoid using mulch too close to your outdoor unit.
Be cautious when mowing to prevent clippings from blowing into your unit. Furthermore, use a rake or leaf blower to clean the area around the unit after mowing the lawn.
The Danger of Roots
You also need to consider what lies beneath your landscaping, including the roots that may be present. Shrubbery and trees can have invasive root growth. Roots grow toward moisture sources and can become attracted to your condenser pad.
Over time, tree roots can push under your condenser, causing cracks and damage to the pad and impacting the electrical and refrigerant lines. Additionally, your condenser pad’s leveling can be affected, which could cause internal damage and reduced performance.
To avoid problems, plant trees and shrubbery well beyond the clearance points. Choose shallow-rooted plants and research trees carefully before planting. Avoid trees like willows, maples, and poplars due to their invasive root growth.
You should periodically inspect your outdoor condenser area for signs of root growth. Also, have your HVAC system professionally inspected annually to ensure it operates optimally. These inspections reveal minor issues before they become significant problems.
Use Strategic Shading
Trees and shrubs can help or hinder your HVAC system, depending on their placement. Strategic planting can help by reducing heat buildup inside your home.
You should plant trees on the west or south sides of your house. Trees can shade your home from the sun’s rays, helping to keep the inside cooler so that your AC doesn’t have to work as hard.
The Value of Regular HVAC Maintenance
Routine maintenance is essential for your HVAC system in Bellevue. Maintenance keeps your HVAC system operating safely, effectively, and efficiently. These services involve a complete inspection to check for signs of wear and tear or malfunctioning parts.
We also lubricate the moving parts to protect against friction, which can cause damage. Tasks such as tightening electrical connections and cleaning coils can help keep your HVAC system operating optimally.
In addition to professional maintenance, you can do your part by regularly changing your HVAC filters. Depending on your system, change the filters every 30 to 90 days. You can also keep the area around your outdoor unit free of leaves, debris, weeds, and tall grass.
Contact Us Today
Apollo Heating & Air Conditioning opened our doors in 1971 as a family-owned and -operated HVAC company in Bellevue, NE. We provide a wide range of HVAC services, including installation, maintenance, and repair. Our maintenance plan offers several advantages, including 15% off parts and repairs, as well as 5% off upgrades. We also give our maintenance plan members access to exclusive specials and discounts. These services provide our customers with peace of mind, knowing their HVAC system is in the hands of professionals.
Contact our expert HVAC technicians at Apollo Heating & Air Conditioning for HVAC maintenance in Bellevue.
