Why allow for the aesthetics of your house to suffer by leaving your air conditioner out in the open for the world to see? Further, if the unit is readily visible it may be more accessible to copper thieves. We’ve covered this subject in the past but this time we will be talking specifically about fences. Keep reading to see what kinds of fences best protect your AC, and see our previous conversation on hiding AC units below:
Pros and Cons of AC Condenser Location
How to Hide your Ugly Air Conditioner
10 tips to keep your AC from being Stolen
1. Location and Protection
These should be the primary points of concern with your outdoor AC unit. Distance from the unit’s counterpart inside the house, aesthetic and noise level are all determined by where the AC unit is located. New high-efficiency air conditioners are not as loud as their predecessors, but homeowners still consider all of these factors.
Once you have the location of your condenser perfectly picked out, you may find that it’s too visible from the front of your home and decide you want to hide the unit with some sort of fence. Consider the following ideas.
2. Fence Material Types
In the images above, you can see both an iron fence and a full brick fence used. Brick fences are the most expensive method of hiding your AC unit, but they’re also the best way to muffle noise. In addition, the brick fense will block all visibility rather than simply protect your AC unit, which is what the iron fence does.
3. Fence Height
Your fence height will depend on what you want out of it. Privacy fences are meant to block the view of outsiders, so taller is generally better. However, you must find a balance between reaching for the sky and not covering your house.
4. Distance From the Condenser
Every manufacturer has specs on the required clearance around their ac units. This is an important guideline to follow, as it will allow the unit to breathe. If the unit can’t breathe, it will not operate properly. Make sure that whatever you place around the unit is not too close, including bushes and plants. Keep in mind that your bush or plant may not restrict your air conditioner now, but it may when your green thumb makes it grow bigger.
For more advice on adding fencing to hide your air conditioner, contact Mission AC & Plumbing today. One of our friendly professionals will help you determine the best choice while keeping in mind the needs of your AC unit.
