As more homeowners switch to sustainable air source heat pumps, a common concern arises: what do I do with that big metal box in the garden?
While these efficient systems help lower energy bills and reduce emissions, their bulky appearance isn’t always garden-party ready. In fact, searches like “hide my garden heat pump” and “plants to disguise heat pumps” are on the rise.
Victoria Marchant, green-fingered energy expert at nationwide home energy specialists dwellow offers five innovative ways to blend heat pumps seamlessly into your outdoor space.
“Your heat pump needs about a metre-and-a-half of clear space in front for airflow, so it’s important not to block it. It also needs to be easy to reach, so avoid planting prickly bushes like holly or roses nearby, as engineers may need access for maintenance,” Ms Marchant says.
“But there are plenty of smart ways to hide it. You don’t need to compromise style for sustainability. With smart planning, your heat pump can become part of your garden’s design, not a distraction from it,” she adds.
“Much like hiding wheelie bins, this is about reclaiming style in practical spaces. Just be sure to follow manufacturer guidelines and keep the unit clear of debris.”
Here’s Ms Marchant’s five top tips:
Plant strategically: If you’ve got the space, create a deep border with evergreen shrubs like Bay, Sarcococca or Lavender, and hardy perennials like Gaura or Phlox for some summer interest. Keep plants at least three feet away to maintain airflow.
Rearrange furniture: Carefully position a weatherproof bench or sofa so it blocks the view of your heat pump — just make sure it’s not too close so it doesn’t impact airflow. Your installer can advise you on what can go near the unit.
Pick cool-loving plants: Heat pumps blow out cold air, which can make the surrounding area cooler and drier than the rest of your garden. For areas affected by the unit’s airflow, hardy evergreen varieties like Bergenia Baby Doll (also known as Elephants Ears) work well. You will enjoy large pink flowers in the summer with big evergreen leaves in the winter. Alpine plants also thrive in dry, cold spots. We recommend the pretty evergreen Saxifrage ‘Flower Carpet’ which produces delicate pinky-white flowers in spring and summer.
Custom screens and enclosures: Build a slatted wooden enclosure or use decorative trellises, faux plant walls, or bamboo screens to blend in with your garden design — ensuring proper ventilation, of course. You can even buy covers with integrated planters so you can grow greenery right on top - perfect for function and curb appeal.
Cover it in vinyl wrap: A chic wrap in botanical, woodgrain, stone, or even a playful print is a hard-wearing weatherproof option. Just don’t block any air vents.
Ian McLaren, co-founder of dwellow, said “At dwellow, we believe every part of a heat pump installation matters — not just how it works, but where it goes. That’s why we take extra care to make sure the unit is positioned in the best possible spot for the homeowner, balancing both practicality and aesthetics. A heat pump should complement your home, not compromise it.”
For a free, no obligation heat pump quote or if you simply want to talk through what’s involved, visit dwellow.co.uk
For more media information please contact: Emily Allen on emily@dwellow.co.uk
About dwellow
Dwellow is a UK-based home energy specialist offering nationwide installation of heat pumps, solar panels, and battery storage. With decades of combined industry experience, they support homeowners in making the switch to renewables and accessing government grants. They are accredited by the MCS, TrustMark, HIES, and Which.
About dwellowPRO
dwellowPRO aims to lead the digital transformation of the UK’s heat pump installation industry by creating a community of engineers committed to quality heat pump, solar and battery installations. The free app helps installers keep on top of installations - whether a dwellow job or one of their own customers via our MCS umbrella.
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