Should You Shade an Outdoor AC Unit?

Your AC unit is supposed to keep you cool, but do you need to return the favor? Deciding whether to shade an outdoor AC unit isn't clear-cut. You'll often find mixed recommendations, but many heating and cooling companies suggest that shading the unit can help your system work more effectively. However, there are some potential drawbacks to shielding your AC from the sun.

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Does Shading an AC Unit Improve Efficiency?

The reviews are mixed on how much energy you save if you shade an outdoor AC unit. The idea is to lower the temperature of the air in the vicinity so it's cooler when the unit sucks it inside and the equipment doesn't have to work as hard to cool it. Putting less strain on your cooling equipment helps it last longer. However, there's no clear information on exactly how much more efficient shading makes your air conditioner.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Shading an AC Condenser?

Deciding whether to shade your outdoor AC unit often comes down to comparing the pros and cons. Here are some perks to consider:

• Aesthetic boost. Adding trees or shade structures can improve the look of your backyard, especially when you choose the shades with beauty in mind. Plus, it blocks the view of the unattractive AC unit to give the space a more polished look.

• Additional shading. Larger shade options, like trees, will also shade your home if they're close enough. Shielding windows and other parts of your home from the sun can reduce the amount of heat that transfers inside, keeping your house cooler. That means your AC won't need to run as much to cool your house.

• Protection. Some types of structures, like awnings or shade cloths, can keep leaves, twigs and other debris off your AC unit. This prevents it from getting overly dirty and clogged, which can also help the AC run efficiently.

There are also some potential drawbacks of shading an AC unit, including:

• Increased cost. Whether you plant living shade or install an inanimate sun blocker, you're spending money on the project with an unknown return.

• Potential for blockage. Planting shrubs or trees near your AC unit could cause problems if you don't maintain the growth. Branches growing near the unit could restrict airflow, which will make the unit work harder and increase wear on the system. Leaves and twigs that fall from overhanging branches can also clog the system.

• Increased maintenance. You'll need to prune living shade options and clean your AC unit more often to remove leaves and twigs. Other structures, like shade cloths and wooden fences, might also need regular upkeep to maintain their looks and effectiveness.

• Less backyard space. If your backyard is already small, you might not want to take up more space with an AC shade structure.

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How Do You Shade an Outdoor AC Unit?

You can use a variety of structures to shade your AC unit, depending on the area and your preferences. Some examples include:

• Trees

• Shrubs

• Trellises with vines

• Awnings

• Wooden fence or frame

• Shade cloth

Living shade options require ongoing maintenance and care. Make sure the area can support the plants with ideal growing conditions. It can also take time for shrubs, trees and vines on trellises to fill out enough to fully block the sunlight. Cloth shades, awnings and wood structures offer immediate shading once the structure is installed.

Plan your AC shade with these tips:

• Choose a location. Monitor the sun to determine when the AC unit is in the direct sunlight and where the sun is positioned in relationship to the unit. This helps you choose the best location for the shade.

• Consider the options. Evaluate the surrounding area to check factors like the soil quality and structures around the AC. These elements could limit which options will work well.

• Leave enough clearance. You'll want to leave at least 1 foot of space around the AC unit on all sides, but leaving even more space is ideal. This allows for ample airflow to avoid unnecessary wear on the AC system.