The landscaping on your property in Charleston, South Carolina, can increase the overall appeal and functionality of your outdoor space. What you might not know is that landscaping can also boost HVAC efficiency. It can also help you maintain a more comfortable indoor atmosphere. Since landscaping can be a major feature of your home, it’s worthwhile to know how it can affect your indoor environment.
Add Shade
Large trees are especially beneficial to your HVAC efficiency. That’s because they can provide shade that naturally cools your home.
When you plant trees closer to the home, especially near the windows and doors, they can cast shade and prevent the sun’s harsh rays from streaming in. Too much sun coming through the windows will raise the indoor temperature. As a result, it’ll cause your conditioning system to work harder and increase your energy bills.
Trees offering the most shade include the corkscrew willow, the Native American sycamore and the Lombardy poplar. If you’re worried about the leaves and debris, you may want to consider an evergreen tree that won’t lose its leaves every fall.
Cover the Ground
Radiant heat from the ground can also reduce the efficiency of your home’s HVAC system, especially during the summer months when the temperatures are especially high. By planting ground cover around your home, you can reduce the heat absorbed by the ground that in turn enters your home. Citronella is an especially good option since it covers the ground while naturally repelling mosquitoes.
Plant Shrubs
Shrubbery in your landscaping will also benefit your HVAC system. Bushes help to block the lower windows from the UV rays while also shielding the outdoor AC unit. Make sure to leave at least three feet of space around the outdoor unit. When plants or bushes grow too close, this can actually reduce airflow, resulting in poor efficiency.
If you have questions about HVAC efficiency or find that your system isn’t keeping up with your needs, seek professional help. Don’t hesitate to give Berkeley Heating & Air Conditioning a call at (843) 277-6030 for expert service.
Image provided by Shutterstock
