One of the easiest ways to clean up the look of your HVAC system on a new home build is by taking a closer look at where the refrigerant lines come out of your house. This spot is often overlooked. Some builders just grab a can of spray foam or squeeze in some silicone and call it a day.
But there are better options that actually seal things up properly and look way cleaner from the outside. These small upgrades help keep pests and moisture out, protect your lines from sun damage, and give your HVAC setup a more polished finish.
Option 1: Airex
Airex comes with a plastic outlet cover that fits tight against the house. You can also get a UV wrap that protects the lines so they don’t crack or peel in the sun over time. It’s a full system designed to look good and last long. If you're looking for something that can also be added later on, this is the only one I’ve seen that lets you retrofit it to an existing home without needing to disconnect anything.
Option 2: QuickFlash
QuickFlash is another solid choice, especially if you’re still in the construction phase. This system is strong, one-piece, and has a low profile. Once it’s in, it blends in with the siding and doesn’t stand out which is exactly what you want when it comes to HVAC lines.
Just know that QuickFlash needs to be installed during the build. It doesn’t come with UV protection like Airex does, but it still does a great job keeping the outlet sealed and tidy.
Option 3: The Old Trusty
I’m not even sure what this old school system is officially called, but it’s basically a small piece of metal bent into a little cover or roof for the lines. It does the job better than foam or silicone, but it’s not as clean or modern-looking as the other two. It works, it’s just not my top pick!
Whichever route you choose, it’s a good idea to talk to your builder during framing or rough-in about how they plan to finish the HVAC outlet. If you have a specific style or system in mind, bring it up early. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference in how your home looks and performs. Get more home building tips just like these in the Ultimate Home Building Checklist! It’s a massive list of all of the home selections you could possibly want and includes mistakes to avoid as a homeowner.
