You may wonder whether to cover your AC unit outside the house when winter is approaching and snow is falling. A good idea would be to cover it with snow, ice, and blowing stuff.
But do you actually need to? We will see what is really the best thing to do with your air conditioner when it is cold.
Do You Really Need to Cover Your Air Conditioner?
Honestly? In the majority of cases, no. Modern AC equipment is capable of withstanding winter quite well without any specific backup.
That being said, in case you have a lot of snow or ice in your place of residence, then putting a cover on top of it can ensure that snow and ice do not accumulate in the interior.
All you have to do is to leave out the entire covers that enclose all the parts- they retain moisture and can even lead to rust and moulding.
In case you are interested in covering the air conditioner during the winter months, it is better to use a basic cover that merely covers the top, but not the sides.
Reasons to Cover Your AC Unit
Winter covers stop your ACs from being damaged by snow, ice, debris, and even animals, prolonging their usefulness.
Protection from Debris
The winter winds blow the leaves, twigs, and other materials in the direction of your outdoor AC unit. All that is kept out of the internal parts and the fins by an air conditioner winter cover. The accumulation of debris indoors hinders airflow and may impair parts.
Shielding from Snow and Ice
Air conditioning does not get along with snow and ice. The heavy snow may bend the fins, and the ice may crack the parts inside. A winter cover prevents snow and ice from entering the vital parts of your AC.
Pest Prevention
During winter, mice and other small animals seek warm areas, and your AC unit appears to be ideal for them. A cover will ensure that you do not suffer the expenses of repairs in the future.
Tips for Covering Your AC Unit
Covering your air conditioner properly makes all the difference. Follow these simple tips to protect your unit without causing more problems than you solve.
Use a Breathable Cover
Not all covers are created equal. You need an air conditioner winter cover that lets air flow through. Plastic tarps or non-breathable materials trap moisture inside, which leads to mold growth and condensation damage. Look for covers made from breathable fabric designed specifically for AC units.
Focus on the Top Only
Here’s a mistake many people make—covering the entire unit. Don’t do it. When you cover the AC unit in winter, focus on just the top 6 to 12 inches. This keeps snow and falling debris out while allowing air to circulate from the sides.
Remove the Cover in Spring
This sounds obvious, but it’s easy to forget. Always take the cover off before you turn your AC on for the season. Running your system with the cover on can cause overheating, restrict airflow, and damage the compressor. Mark your calendar or set a reminder so you don’t skip this step.
Inspect Before Covering
Take a few minutes to clean your unit and check for problems before covering it up. Remove any leaves or debris, look for signs of wear or damage, and make sure everything is dry. Covering a dirty or wet unit just locks in moisture and grime, which defeats the whole purpose of protection.
When you start your system again, make sure it powers up correctly. If your air conditioner isn’t turning on, here’s what to check first.
Types of Air Conditioner Covers to Consider
The selection of the cover to use with your AC unit also varies according to weather and the type of protection you require. This is what is offered and its comparison.
Plastic Covers – These are very cheap and waterproof, but they trap the moisture inside your unit. This causes condensation, mold, and rust. These can be omitted unless you are merely covering a day or two in a wonderful tempest.
Vinyl Covers – Heavy-duty vinyl will be good at keeping off snow and debris. Find ones that have vents or mesh panels that will allow air to pass through. They are robust and serve in places that receive heavy snowfall; however, ensure that they are not totally closed.
Mesh Covers – Lightweight mesh is an ideal choice as it is highly breathable, yet it excludes large debris. They are suitable in warmer climates because there is no problem with heavy snow. The disadvantage is that they do not prevent moisture as much.
To most homeowners, a breathable fabric or a vented vinyl cover, covering the top part of the unit only, presents the best option of protection and ventilation.
Wrapping Up…
It is not necessary to cover up your air conditioner over the winter, but a breathable cover placed over it would help to keep the air conditioner dry and clear of debris. The important thing is however to maintain your system all year round. When it comes to professional consultation and HVAC maintenance, one can rely on All About Air Conditioning and Heating LLC– we are the professionals who will ensure the proper functioning of your system throughout the year.