As winter approaches, many homeowners wonder whether or not they should cover the air conditioning unit in winter. While it may seem like a good idea to protect your outdoor unit from snow, ice, and debris, there’s a lot more to consider than simply throwing a tarp over it. In this article, we’ll explain the best practices for covering air conditioners during winter, and if you’re using an air conditioner cover for winter, it’s worthwhile.
Do You Really Need to Cover Your Air Conditioner?
As you know, one of the most important things about the central air conditioner is that it is built to last outdoors. These units are engineered to withstand rain, snow, freezing temperatures, and everything in between. The metal housing, fan motor, and internal components are designed for durability in all seasons. That said, the genuine concern isn’t necessarily about protection from weather; it’s about avoiding the wrong kind of protection. Using the wrong AC cover can do more harm than good.
Why Some Homeowners Use a Winter Cover for AC:
The main reasons people consider using an air conditioner cover for winter are
- Protection from snow and ice buildup
- Preventing debris like leaves and twigs from falling in
- Shielding from icicles dropping from rooftops
- Concern over animals nesting inside the unit
While these are valid concerns, they don’t always warrant a full AC cover.
The Dangers of Fully Covering Your AC Unit:
We’re going to explain some crucial factors that aren’t suitable for an AC unit while your air conditioner is fully covered.
1. Moisture Trapping:
When you’re using the full AC cover, it can cause rust, corrosion, and even mold, which can cause a significant malfunction of your AC unit. The primary reason is moisture trapping in your AC unit.
2. Rodent and Pest Nesting:
Small animals like mice and squirrels see covered, dark spaces as cozy winter homes. By covering the air conditioner during winter, you may be inviting unwanted guests who chew on wires and insulation.
3. Restricted Airflow:
If your AC shares functions with a heat pump or hybrid HVAC system, covering it may block airflow necessary for winter operations.
The Right Way to Protect Your AC in Winter:
Instead of using a complete wrap or an enclosed AC cover, professionals suggest the use of a top-only wrap or an air compressor wrap. The sides can be ventilated while also preventing the fall of debris and freezing ice from damaging the fans. The compressor wrap was explicitly designed to shield and insulate the center component while not enclosing the entire fan. This is especially useful when there is a lot of winter snow or even ice. Another option is to place an oversized piece of wood or a piece of plastic over the top of the unit, and then weighing it down could be used as a temporary, ventilated air conditioner cover during winter.
For proper protection of your AC unit during winter, you must clean the unit and then protect it by covering it with a ventilating cover, and be sure to provide adequate venting and insulation. Don’t completely seal it in order to trap moisture, which can cause damage or even mold.
Here’s a more comprehensive explanation:
1. Cleaning and Preparation:
- Clean up debris: Clear away any leaves, twigs, and other debris that has accumulated on the outside of your unit and from its zone.
- Clean the Fins: Make use of a fin comb or gentle brush to scrub the fins of your condenser, taking off any dirt or grime.
- Disconnect Power: Shut off power to the unit from the breaker box to stop an accidental malfunction.
- Consider Professional Maintenance: Make a plan for a prior winter HVAC test to be sure that the HVAC system is operating in top condition.
2. Covering the Unit:
- Choose a Breathable Cover: Choose a waterproof and breathable covering designed to be used with AC units. The covers typically come with vents that allow the flow of air and prevent condensation.
- Secure the Cover: Make use of straps or bungee cords to ensure that the cover stays on its feet during high winds.
- Avoid Tight Seals: Don’t wrap tightly or seal the device since this may create a trap for moisture, which can cause harm.
3. Insulation and Protection:
- Insulate Exposed Pipes: Cover exposed refrigerant lines as well as other parts that are vulnerable to freezing by insulating them with rubber or foam to stop them from freezing.
- Consider a Shelter: If you are in a place that is prone to massive snow or ice accumulations, a simple shelter made of plywood could provide additional security; however, make sure it’s not close to the structure and also allows the air to circulate.
- Check for Leaks: Check the insulation in your home to be sure that it’s suitable for the winter months, stopping freezing temperatures from entering your home and exerting additional strain on the heating equipment.
4. Springtime Maintenance:
- The Cover Is Removed: Take off the cover during the spring when temperatures begin to get warmer.
- Please clean it up: Make sure to give the unit a thorough clean before switching it on.
- Inspection and Repair: Examine for signs of damage during the winter months and fix these issues immediately.
What About Window Air Conditioner Covers?
For windows, the depiction is a bit different. Window units are more fragile than central units and are more susceptible to cold drafts as well as indoor heat loss. Covers for windows or wraps that are insulating are an effective way to winterize your house. A window AC cover can help:
- Cut down on your loss of heat through the windows.
- Stop cold drafts from coming into your house
- Make sure that debris, ice, and any moisture are removed from the device
- Increase efficiency of energy use during the the cold winter months
It’s true that removing the entire window unit and securing the window would be perfect. However, if this isn’t possible, then a top-quality window AC cover or an interior insulation kit is the best option.
When Covering Makes Sense:
It is an ideal idea to cover your AC unit during winter, such as
- Guarding against heavy icicles If your fan is located directly under a roofline that has icicles, the top of the cover will keep falling ice away from harming the casing or fan.
- The yard is laden with trees. If your home is located near or under shed trees, a thin screen or a cover will help to keep the leaves from accumulating.
- In regions where snow accumulates in the vicinity of the unit, using an airtight AC cover or a compressor wrap will prevent snow from hitting the blades of your fan.
What Kind of Cover Should You Use?
If you choose to proceed with an insurance policy, make sure you choose carefully. Here are some guidelines:
- Choose breathable fabrics: Stay clear of the use of plastics or other materials designed to hold water. Select mesh or vented patterns.
- The top is only covered: An 8- to 6-inch overhang can be enough to keep out debris while leaving the sides free.
- Do not use full enclosures: unless advised by the manufacturer. Never cover the unit in a single piece.
There are a variety of air conditioner covers for winter-related products that are specifically designed with airflow in mind. Find reputable manufacturers that explicitly mention the ability to vent moisture and also pest control characteristics.
Seasonal Maintenance Is Better Than Covering:
Many times, a thorough regular maintenance at the end of the season is a much better option than purchasing a complete winter blanket for the AC. In the months before winter, it is recommended to:
- Take away any dirt, leaves, or any other debris that may be around the area of
- The condenser is hosed down to remove dust and other particles
- Cut back plants and shrubs around
- Examine for rust, damage, or nests of insects.
- Turn off the power supply to the unit when you don’t intend to use it.
Clean, well-maintained equipment isn’t required to be sealed off. It just needs breathing space and airflow.
Should You Cover the Air Conditioner During Winter?
The quick answer is no, there is no need to completely cover your AC unit throughout the winter months. Indeed, covering it completely could cause more harm than good. It is true that using an airtight AC cover or even putting an extra shield over the top of the cover is an excellent idea in some situations.
If you’re worried about the possibility of exposure to the elements of snow, ice, or falling debris, you can choose a compression wrap or top-only option that won’t hold water. If you own a window unit? Window AC covers, as well as window AC cover items, are usually essential to ensure your house is efficient and free of drafts.
Conclusion:
Knowing how to cover your air conditioner during winter, or the best way to do it, will aid in protecting your investment in the future. Choose the best method for you and use high-quality materials, prioritizing maintenance over protection. Keep in mind that your air conditioner is stronger than what it appears.