As the sweltering summer sunshine starts to fade and the refreshingly cool weather of fall starts to settle in, residents of Chelan and Wenatchee start preparing their homes and yards for the wintertime. For many, that leads to the question of whether they should cover their exterior air conditioning unit for the winter.
While it may seem like a good idea, in reality there are a number of reasons why you shouldn’t cover your AC unit in the winter. On top of not being something you need to do, covering your outdoor air conditioning equipment can even cause problems.
Here, the professionals at Lakeside Heating & Air share five reasons why covering your air conditioner doesn’t need to be on your fall to-do list and what you should do instead.
1. Your AC can Handle Snow
Outdoor AC units are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions like snow in the winter season. These units are built with durable materials and parts that can handle the outdoor elements without damage. The coils and fins of the unit are specially developed to resist corrosion, and the housing is crafted to protect the internal elements from moisture and debris.
2. Covering AC Systems can Encourage Mold
One of the reasons you shouldn’t cover your outdoor air conditioning equipment in the cold months is because doing so can trap moisture—which is not at all what you want in your outdoor unit. That’s because sealing moisture inside the unit generates the perfect conditions for mold and mildew to flourish.
Mold and mildew not only have an undesirable aroma, but they can also pose health risks, especially for individuals with respiratory issues or allergies. Additionally, the unwanted moisture can corrode the internal components of the AC unit.
Instead of covering the unit, instead make sure the unit has proper drainage and keep the area around the unit clear of debris, allowing for efficient airflow and preventing moisture buildup.
3. Your Covered Air Conditioning Unit Can Host Animals
Human beings aren’t the only ones who get ready for winter. Animals that live around your home are also looking for a warm, cozy place to crash for the winter months. For many animals, a covered air conditioner is the perfect winter refuge.
Birds, mice, chipmunks and even rats commonly make homes inside covered air conditioners. Animals dwelling in a covered air conditioning unit can cause many problems. Mice can chew through wires, insulation and other parts, causing damage that may require costly repairs. Debris animals bring into the AC to construct a warm and comfortable bed can block airflow and ventilation, reducing the efficiency of the appliance and potentially causing it to overheat. Moreover, animal waste can result in unsanitary conditions and potent odors.
Leaving your air conditioner uncovered helps deter animals, because an uncovered AC provides less shelter from the elements than a covered unit. That’s better for your air conditioner—and leaves you with less mess to pick up and things to repair in the spring.
4. An AC Cover Restricts Airflow
Another reason it’s better that you don’t cover your AC unit in the winter is because a cover blocks airflow through the unit. Proper airflow is essential for the AC system because it helps with heat exchange and permits the unit to cool efficiently. When airflow is constrained, the system has to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, causing additional energy consumption and strain on the components.
In addition, if you use your air conditioner without knowing that the outside unit is covered or because you simply forgot, it could result in a range of problems. One issue is that the shortage of appropriate airflow could cause the compressor to overheat, resulting in its failure or damage. That’s why it is vital to ensure the outdoor unit is always cleared of any blockages and is not covered to maintain maximum airflow.
5. AC Maintenance Is More Effective Than Covering Your Air Conditioner
The bottom line is, it’s a lot more effective to do a little maintenance for your air conditioner than to cover your outdoor AC unit.
There are numerous key maintenance activities you should prioritize to ensure the best possible operation and longevity of your AC unit. First, it’s a good idea to examine your outdoor AC unit regularly and clear any debris such as leaves, small branches and dirt to promote proper airflow. Second, check and clean the coils, fins and filters to make sure there isn’t any dirt and dust buildup that would impede efficient heat exchange or airflow.
Scheduled air conditioning maintenance not only improves efficiency, but it also helps extend the unit’s life span, decreases energy consumption and avoids costly repairs. Rather than using a cover, investing time and effort into routine air conditioning maintenance is a proactive strategy that can significantly benefit your entire HVAC system in the long run.
