Outdoor Landscaping and Your Home’s Energy Efficiency

Did you know that your home’s landscaping can drastically affect its energy efficiency? If you’re a Woodbridge, Virginia, homeowner planning a landscaping project this spring, here are a few ways you can boost both your home’s curb appeal and energy efficiency at the same time.

Plant Shade Trees

Shade trees best serve a home when planted west of westward-facing windows. Make sure you choose trees that can be planted within 20 feet of the home and will grow taller than the window. The best shade trees will be at least 10 feet taller than the window to maximize shade.

You should also consider shade trees on the east side of the home. In fact, planting as many shade trees as your property allows along east- and west-facing windows keeps your home cool and comfortable all year long.

Create Dead-Space Insulation

Dead spaces are areas between your home’s exterior walls and any shrubs, bushes, or vines. When planning the shrubbery around the home, keep in mind that this dead space serves as extra insulation in both the summer and winter months. Keeping at least 1 foot of space between the wall and full-grown plants is ideal.

Plant Windbreaks

Excess wind can leave your home prone to drafts. Evergreens serve as natural windbreaks that can help your HVAC system avoid working overtime to keep up with the weather. Planting windbreaks to the north and northwest of the home is the ideal situation; just make sure the windbreaks are planted at an adequate distance from the home.

Keep the Air Conditioner Clear

The outdoor air conditioning unit should be free of all debris no matter the time of year. Ensuring that any plants are at least 3 feet away from the unit maximizes both airflow and unit access, making it easier to both maintain your home and keep it comfortable.

If these outdoor landscaping tips don’t help improve your home’s energy efficiency, it may be time for an HVAC checkup. Call Brennan’s at 703-783-0145 to schedule your next appointment.

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