Shading an AC Unit: Louvers, Shrubs, and the Real Energy Savings

Sun on the condenser coil has minimal impact on efficiency; the real savings come from shading the house. A louvered shed risks restricting airflow (code requires 3–5 ft clearance all sides).

Better Approach

1. Plant a large deciduous shade tree on the south/west side of the house—10–50% cooling reduction.
2. If shading the unit is desired: open arbor (no sides) with vine, 5–6 ft above unit.
3. Shrubs: any evergreen, but plant ≥6 ft from unit (3 ft mature hedge clearance + 3 ft growth space).
4. Louver angle: irrelevant—don’t build a louvered box.

Check local mechanical/electrical codes for setbacks. Search “enclosing an AC unit” for code guidance.