CONCLUSION. Covering your air conditioner, especially with a full-length cover, leads to issues of mold, rust, and other problems. Your unit is made to withstand the snow and a cover is not needed for protection. It is recommended to only cover your AC during the fall months.
What happens if I don’t cover my air conditioner?
Keeping your AC unit uncovered not only prevents excess moisture buildup, but it also keeps mold and mildew growth at bay. Although you’d want to cover your AC unit before a severe weather event such as a hailstorm or blizzard, there’s no reason to keep your AC covered throughout the entire winter.
Is it a good idea to cover AC unit in winter?
In regions where the winters are exceptionally long and harsh, covering your unit can prevent snow on your AC. Excessive snow and ice on the unit for extended periods of time can damage coils. Ensure that the cover you use is made of a light, breathable material.
Should I cover AC unit outside?
Manufacturer recommendation: Most manufacturers do not recommend covering your A/C unit. Air conditioners that operate year round are built to withstand an outdoor environment and don’t require coverage.
Do I need to cover my AC unit when it rains?
The only time that you should cover the condenser is during extremely strong storms, such as hurricanes, to prevent damage from wind-blown debris. For this purpose, something strong, like plywood, should be secured with the power off, and it should be removed immediately after the storm.
How do I keep my outside AC unit from freezing in the winter?
- Change your air filter regularly. To keep your system efficient, change out the air filter at least once a month.
- Clean the fan.
- Keep your vents open.
- Keep the condenser coils clean.
- Schedule a professional inspection.
How do I winterize my AC unit?
- Do: Shut off the power to the unit.
- Do: Remove any debris stuck in the unit.
- Do: Cover the unit with a sheet of plywood.
- Do: Wax the outside of the unit.
- Don’t: Wrap the condenser in plastic.
- Do: Remove snow and ice through the winter.
Do you need to cover window AC unit in winter?
After the air conditioner is dry, you can prevent rainwater from entering it by protecting its exterior with a fitted cover or plastic sheeting. Some manufacturers recommend leaving the exterior uncovered so that moisture can evaporate with natural airflow.
References:
- https://www.heatcraftinc.com/4-reasons-you-shouldn-t-cover-your-air-conditioner-this-winter
- https://www.cielowigle.com/blog/should-i-cover-my-ac-unit-in-winter/
- https://www.bonney.com/2016/10/cover-outdoor-ac-unit-winter/
- https://www.conditionedair.com/blog/rain-affect-air-conditioning-unit/
- https://www.professionalservicestoday.com/what-to-do-to-prevent-your-hvac-unit-from-freezing-up-in-the-winter
- https://www.robertbpayne.com/the-dos-and-donts-for-winterizing-your-air-conditioning-unit/
- https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2007/09/q-a-is-it-a-good-idea-to-leave-an-air-conditioner-in-a-window-during-winter/index.htm