HVAC systems are designed to fade into the background as one of the core components of your home. Many elements of your heating system are designed for functionality rather than aesthetic qualities. In other words, they tend to be unsightly and detract from the atmosphere of a room.
Fortunately, there are several ways to turn your heating system into a chameleon. Here are six easy ways to hide your heaters.
Build a Cabinet
Homeowners have been building cabinets around unsightly pipes and electrical panels for years, but did you know that you can do the same with heaters? The key to this strategy is using vented materials for airflow while allowing enough room to operate when heating repair services are needed.
Rather than installing solid doors, repurpose old shutters or adhere patterned vent covers to the frame. You can even create custom cutouts of kid-friendly designs for the playroom or kids' rooms.
Recess Into a Bookshelf
If you have a mini-split heater, installing it into a built-in bookshelf is an excellent way to create camouflage. While the heater won't be hidden, it will be less noticeable compared to the other decor elements in the room.
Be mindful of what decor and books you include surrounding the mini-split heater. Avoid decorating with antiques or plants, which can be heat-sensitive. Adding too many books around the heater will also impede the airflow.
If you're installing a built-in shelving system, you can also add slatted sliding panels for extra coverage. This addition is also perfect for hiding office supplies, toys, and other items in a home with minimal closet space.
Build a Radiator Cover
If you have a traditional radiator on the wall, you can create a cover that doubles as functional storage. Follow the same guidelines of creating a box with ample airflow that's easy to remove. You might consider adding hinges to make it easier to flip the cover and sides away from the radiator when repairs are needed. Add a simple shelf to the top of the radiator cover for trinkets and decor pieces.
Add Shelving Over the Top
If you have a mini-split or built-in vent near the ceiling, you can add a shelf over the top to detract attention from it. Adding a nice floating shelf can be used for functional storage and decor that helps offset the look of the heating system.
Create balance by adding a matching shelf on the other side of the wall, or incorporate a single unit high shelf for books, dishes, plants, and other decor elements.
Use Curtains
Curtains are a great way to make a room feel more luxurious and comfortable while hiding your heating system. Hanging curtains along the ceiling works exceptionally well as a design piece if your heater shares a wall with a window. This decor trick also makes ceilings look higher.
The benefit of curtains is that you can tie them back to let the air flow through or let them hang while the company is present. Using sheer material is optimal for hiding a mini-split or vent, as it allows airflow without retracting the curtains.
Upgrade Your Vent Covers
Finally, replace your standard vent covers with something designer-inspired. You can get custom vents cut to fit your decor or find various options online, ranging from Scandinavian-inspired wood slats to baroque dye-cut coverings. You can also talk to your HVAC specialist about adding diffusers or gable vents instead of traditional grilles.
The key thing to remember when hiding your heaters is to avoid using materials or placement that could catch fire. Mini-splits, radiators, and vents can be covered strategically, but baseboard heaters should be left exposed and untouched. When in doubt, talk to your trusted heating specialist.
