Looking for ways to enhance your outdoor space while hiding your air conditioning unit? An AC unit cover is not only practical but can also add a stylish element to your backyard. If you’re looking for inspiration, this list of 19 ideas will give you plenty of creative options for creating a beautiful and functional cover for your AC unit. These ideas blend perfectly with modern back porch ideas, backyard decor, and outdoor living spaces, ensuring your AC unit stays protected while looking great.
1. Wooden Slat Privacy Screen
A wooden slat privacy screen is a fantastic option for hiding your AC unit. This stylish cover can blend seamlessly into any backyard, providing a modern look that complements your outdoor living space. Use weather-resistant wood like cedar or pressure-treated pine to ensure longevity. The slats allow for air circulation, so your AC unit can continue functioning without overheating. You can also paint or stain the wood to match your existing outdoor furniture or decor, making it a perfect addition to your backyard.
Wooden slats can be arranged vertically or horizontally, depending on your aesthetic preference. To make it even more unique, you can incorporate plants around the screen or hang small decorative items like lanterns or fairy lights. This type of AC unit cover works especially well in modern patios or minimalist designs, as it adds a clean, sleek finish while providing the necessary functionality.
2. Lattice and Climbing Plants
If you love the idea of incorporating greenery into your outdoor space, a lattice cover paired with climbing plants could be the perfect choice for you. This type of cover allows you to blend your AC unit into your landscape seamlessly while adding a touch of natural beauty. Install a wooden or vinyl lattice panel around the unit, and allow climbing plants like ivy, morning glories, or climbing roses to grow and wrap around the structure.
Lattice is a versatile material that can be customized to fit any space, and the climbing plants will not only provide cover for your AC unit but will also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your backyard. This idea works especially well for those who want to create a garden-like atmosphere in their outdoor space, turning a functional cover into a feature that complements modern back porch ideas.
3. Custom-Built Wooden Cabinet
For those looking for a more structured, clean-lined look, a custom-built wooden cabinet could be the ideal solution. This AC unit cover creates a sleek, contemporary look while still offering full coverage of the unit. A well-built wooden cabinet can be designed to match your outdoor furniture or patio, adding a polished touch to your backyard space.
The key to a successful custom-built cabinet is ensuring there is adequate ventilation for the AC unit to breathe. You can install slats or mesh panels within the cabinet to allow airflow while still maintaining the cover’s aesthetics. With a bit of creativity, you can even add shelves to the cabinet for additional storage or display, making it both functional and visually appealing.
4. Faux Stone or Brick Enclosure
For a more rustic or traditional look, consider using faux stone or brick panels to create a natural-looking AC unit cover. These materials offer the appearance of stone or brick without the heavy weight or high cost of real stone. Faux stone is lightweight, durable, and weather-resistant, making it an excellent choice for an outdoor AC unit cover.
You can create a stone or brick enclosure around your AC unit by simply attaching the panels to a frame, ensuring the unit is well-ventilated. This design works beautifully in gardens or yards with a rustic theme and pairs nicely with modern patio furniture or outdoor decor. Adding small plants or flowers around the enclosure can further enhance the natural look and feel of the cover.
5. Vertical Garden Screen
A vertical garden screen is a unique way to combine functionality with beauty. Create a simple frame to hold a collection of potted plants, such as succulents or herbs, and arrange them in a vertical grid or a cascading style. This not only hides your AC unit but also adds a living wall of greenery to your backyard.
Vertical garden screens can be made using a metal frame, wood, or even repurposed materials like old pallets. For those who love DIY projects, this is an easy and customizable solution. The plants on the screen can be swapped out seasonally, allowing you to freshen up the space with new blooms or herbs throughout the year. The best part is that this screen will add color and texture to your backyard while keeping your AC unit discreetly hidden.
6. Decorative Metal Mesh Cover
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A decorative metal mesh cover offers a contemporary, industrial look that suits modern patios and outdoor spaces. This sleek design provides ample ventilation for the AC unit while still offering a stylish barrier that hides the unit from view. The metal mesh can be made from stainless steel, aluminum, or even powder-coated steel, which ensures durability and rust resistance.
To add a more personalized touch, you can opt for a custom design by selecting decorative patterns or cutting the mesh into unique shapes. This option is especially great for those who prefer a minimalist aesthetic and want their AC unit cover to blend into their modern outdoor living area seamlessly. You can also combine the metal mesh with wooden accents or surrounding plants for an extra flair.
7. Repurposed Pallet Fence
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A repurposed pallet fence is a creative and sustainable option for covering your AC unit. If you have old wooden pallets lying around, you can easily transform them into a functional and attractive cover. Pallets are versatile and can be arranged in various ways, whether you create a simple wooden wall or a full enclosure with a hinged door for easy access to the AC unit.
This design gives your backyard a rustic, farmhouse feel while also keeping the AC unit protected from the elements. You can leave the pallets in their natural state for a more rugged appearance or sand them down and stain them for a more polished look. Adding vines or flowers to the pallet fence can help soften the edges and tie the design into the rest of your garden.
8. Bamboo Screen Cover
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Bamboo is a durable and eco-friendly material that works beautifully in outdoor spaces. A bamboo screen can easily be used to create an attractive and functional cover for your AC unit. Bamboo is lightweight, flexible, and naturally resistant to weather, making it an ideal material for outdoor use.
To install, you can attach bamboo poles vertically or horizontally, depending on your style preference. Bamboo screens are perfect for adding a tropical or zen-inspired feel to your backyard. You can also add plants around the bamboo screen or place decorative elements like stone lanterns or tiki torches nearby to complete the look. The natural texture of bamboo adds warmth and charm, making it a perfect match for outdoor living.
9. Outdoor Storage Bench with AC Unit Cover
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An outdoor storage bench doubles as a practical and stylish AC unit cover. These benches can be placed around the AC unit, and their sturdy design allows them to not only hide the unit but also offer extra seating and storage space. Look for benches that have lift-up tops or sliding drawers to make it easy to access the area when needed.
This option works especially well for smaller backyards or patios where every inch of space counts. The added storage is perfect for keeping cushions, outdoor toys, or gardening supplies organized. You can choose from wood, wicker, or even metal materials to match your outdoor decor, and personalize the bench with pillows or a throw blanket for extra comfort.
10. Rustic Cedar Barrel Cover
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If you’re going for a more vintage or rustic vibe, consider using a cedar barrel as your AC unit cover. These barrels are not only charming but are also durable enough to withstand outdoor conditions. The natural look of cedar adds warmth to your backyard, and the barrel shape provides a unique, eye-catching design.
This type of cover works especially well for larger AC units, as the shape and size of the barrel can fully enclose the unit. To complete the look, you can add plants around the barrel or even attach a decorative wrought iron latch to the top for an added touch of rustic flair. The cedar will weather beautifully over time, giving it a natural, well-worn look that adds character to your outdoor space.
11. Potted Plant Privacy Wall
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A potted plant privacy wall is a great way to incorporate greenery into your AC unit cover while creating a natural barrier around the unit. By arranging large, decorative pots along the sides of your air conditioning unit, you can effectively camouflage the unit with lush, green plants. Opt for tall, dense plants such as ornamental grasses, ferns, or bamboo to create a natural screen.
This design not only hides your AC unit but also adds texture and vibrancy to your outdoor space. Potted plants are highly versatile, as you can swap out plants depending on the season or your mood. In addition, using a variety of plant types can help you achieve a multi-dimensional look that elevates the visual appeal of your backyard. For added convenience, ensure the pots are on rolling carts or wheels, making it easy to rearrange them when needed.
12. DIY Pallet Garden Screen
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For a budget-friendly and customizable solution, a DIY pallet garden screen is a fantastic option. This AC unit cover idea allows you to build a unique structure using wooden pallets that you may already have lying around. The pallets can be arranged vertically or horizontally, depending on the size and shape of your AC unit.
To make this cover functional and attractive, you can attach lattice or mesh to the back of the pallets for additional stability and airflow. Adding climbing plants or vines to the pallets enhances the natural appeal and provides extra coverage for the AC unit. For a more finished look, you can sand and stain the pallets, creating a polished finish that complements your backyard decor.
This design is perfect for those who love DIY projects and want to personalize their AC unit cover with a rustic, homegrown charm.
13. Industrial-Style Steel Cover
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For those who love a modern, industrial look, a steel cover can be the perfect option for your AC unit. An industrial-style steel cover is durable, sleek, and functional, offering a contemporary feel that suits minimalist or modern outdoor spaces. You can opt for a simple steel box design or create a custom cover with perforated steel panels for added style and airflow.
Steel covers are strong enough to withstand the elements, and their bold appearance can add a striking contrast to the soft greens and natural tones of your garden. Additionally, steel is resistant to rust and corrosion, making it a long-lasting solution. This type of cover is ideal for modern patios or urban-style backyards that embrace clean lines and industrial decor.
14. Repurposed Wooden Crates
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Repurposed wooden crates offer a charming and eco-friendly way to conceal your AC unit while keeping your backyard looking stylish. If you have old wooden crates on hand, they can be easily stacked or arranged around your AC unit to create a rustic, vintage-inspired cover.
To ensure the crate cover provides proper ventilation, you can create open gaps between the crates or leave spaces between the stacked pieces. This design is not only functional but also adds a unique, weathered charm to your backyard. You can further personalize this cover by painting the crates in fun colors, adding stencils or artwork, or incorporating a bit of distressed wood for a shabby chic look. This option is especially well-suited for country-style, farmhouse, or boho-inspired outdoor spaces.
15. Vinyl Fence Panels
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For a low-maintenance and durable AC unit cover, vinyl fence panels can be a great solution. Vinyl is weather-resistant and can be molded into various designs, offering a sleek and clean appearance. Install vinyl fence panels around your AC unit to create a discreet, functional cover that blends seamlessly with your existing outdoor decor.
Vinyl fence panels are available in a wide range of styles and colors, from classic white to textured options that mimic wood or stone. You can choose a style that complements your modern back porch ideas or contemporary patio furniture, ensuring that the cover enhances the overall aesthetic of your backyard. The material is also incredibly easy to maintain, requiring little more than occasional cleaning to keep it looking fresh.
16. Wicker Basket Cover
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A wicker basket cover is a chic, rustic option for hiding your AC unit. Wicker or rattan is a material that adds texture and warmth to any space, and when used as a cover for your AC unit, it helps create a cozy, welcoming outdoor atmosphere. The woven texture of wicker complements a variety of decor styles, from coastal to boho to farmhouse.
You can either use a single large wicker basket to encase the unit or stack multiple smaller baskets around it for a more eclectic look. To ensure proper ventilation, be sure to leave enough space between the basket and the unit or opt for baskets with open weaves. The wicker cover can be paired with other natural materials, such as wood or stone, to further enhance the rustic charm of your backyard.
17. Decorative Fabric Cover
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If you’re looking for a lightweight and customizable option, a decorative fabric cover may be the perfect solution. Use an outdoor fabric, such as Sunbrella, that is both durable and weather-resistant. This cover can be tailored to fit around your AC unit like a slipcover, giving it a stylish and polished appearance.
You can choose from a variety of colors and patterns that complement your outdoor living area. For example, a striped fabric cover can add a nautical vibe, while a floral print can contribute to a more whimsical or romantic aesthetic. This type of cover is easy to remove and clean, making it a practical choice for homeowners who want to change up their backyard decor regularly.
18. Greenhouse-Style AC Unit Enclosure
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A greenhouse-style AC unit enclosure is a functional and stylish way to cover your unit while creating an attractive garden feature. This enclosure is typically made of glass or clear acrylic panels, allowing you to still view the unit while protecting it from the elements. The transparency of the greenhouse-style cover allows sunlight to filter through, making it ideal for spaces that need extra light.
Incorporating plants into the greenhouse structure is a great way to soften the look and add visual appeal. You can create a small indoor garden around the AC unit or even add shelves inside the enclosure to house smaller plants. This idea works well for those who want to create a peaceful, zen-inspired corner in their backyard while keeping the AC unit out of sight.
19. Multi-Function Outdoor Cabinet
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A multi-function outdoor cabinet is a versatile and stylish way to cover your AC unit while also providing additional storage space for your outdoor essentials. This type of cabinet can be designed with shelves or drawers for storing gardening tools, cushions, or other outdoor accessories. It’s a great option for those who want to maximize their outdoor space without compromising on style.
You can choose from various materials such as wood, metal, or composite boards to match your outdoor furniture and decor. A well-designed outdoor cabinet can seamlessly blend into your existing backyard layout, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Add a decorative top to the cabinet to create additional surface area for plants, decor, or even outdoor serving items.
Conclusion
When it comes to covering your AC unit outdoors, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re aiming for a rustic, modern, or eclectic style, there are many creative and functional ways to hide your AC unit while enhancing your backyard decor. From wooden slat screens to vertical garden walls and custom-built enclosures, each idea on this list offers something unique to fit your outdoor living needs.
Not only do these AC unit covers keep your unit protected from the elements, but they also add character to your backyard space. Choose a design that aligns with your existing style, and don’t be afraid to get creative with materials and colors. Whether you’re working with a small porch or a spacious patio, these covers will blend seamlessly with your outdoor living area, allowing you to create a space that’s as stylish as it is functional.
