Is it normal to surround my air conditioning unit with mulch?

Hello, I notice that gr grows really fast around my ACU outside since I ume the higher temps and moisture keeps the gr healthier. It is hard to cut the gr due to the pipes and wires that connect the ACU to my home. I was thinking about removing the gr and laying down a weed mat and some mulch, but I never seen anyone else do that so is that considered normal? I may add a little shrub so it wouldn't look odd. Thanks.