Air conditioning is often considered a must-have during the summer months. However, there’s something aesthetically displeasing about the vents, mini-splits, and window units that take away from the decor. 

If you feel like your air conditioner is taking away from your home’s aesthetic, use these simple tips to help it blend into the background. 

Build a Vented Cabinet

One of the easiest ways to hide an air conditioning unit is to build a vented cabinet around it. This is a versatile option that anyone can use and customize to suit their decor style. Some aspiring designers opt for a simple cabinet with slatted doors, while others use an elegant, cut lattice design or repurposed materials, like shutters.

When building a vented cabinet, the key thing to remember is to allow enough space for access and maneuvering when you need AC Services. Technicians must be able to remove the panel and interior parts. Create more working space by adding hinges to the top of the cabinet for better access.

Replace Standard Vent Covers

If you have a whole-house air conditioning system, you don’t have to contend with built-in units. However, you likely have several vents for air distribution. Most standard vent covers are created to cover the basics and have little or no aesthetic value.

Consider replacing standard vent covers with decorative alternatives. You can find anything from heritage designs that are reminiscent of Victorian mansions or chic art deco covers for a nouveau chic accent piece. Avid DIYers can also create custom patterns and make their own unique vent covers.

Use Curtains

Curtains are one of the easiest ways to cover an air conditioner— especially the window units. If you have a wall-mounted unit near windows, you can also create the illusion of larger window space with ceiling to floor curtains. It’s best to use light or sheer curtains for this strategy to minimize the impact on airflow.

Use a Slatted Wall Panel

Another way to cover a built-in unit or vent is to decorate it with a slatted wall panel. Make this wall panel a part of your decor scheme, choosing a style and color that fit the room. 

Consider adding a slider or hinges rather than screwing the panel into the wall. This will minimize wall damage and improve access when you need maintenance or repairs.

Recess it into the Wall

Another strategy for making an air conditioning unit or mini-split less obvious is to recess it into the wall. This task should be done when the unit is installed, as it requires cooperation from your AC installer. It’s also important to confirm that the space where it’s being installed can be altered in some way, as there might be piping or wires there. 

If you’re creating a recessed area for your air conditioner, remember to leave lots of room for maintenance access and airflow. You can also combine strategies and install curtains, a wall panel, or vented cabinet doors.

Incorporate it Into a Shelf

Built-in shelving is another designer-inspired strategy for making an air conditioner less noticeable. It’s also a great way to increase functional storage space and create artistic displays to tie the room together. If you’re using this strategy, leave enough clearance space for maintenance and airflow. Also, avoid decorating with plants in the area surrounding the air conditioner, as they’re susceptible to extreme temperature fluctuations.

If built-in shelving doesn’t fit the space, you can add a singular floating shelf to help shield the air conditioner from view. It will still be apparent from some parts of the room, but less so.

With these designer-inspired tricks, you can make your ugly air conditioner or vents less obvious and more appealing.