As the hot summer sun starts to fade and the refreshingly cool weather of fall starts to settle in, residents of West Jefferson start preparing their homes and yards for the the upcoming cold weather. For many, that leads to the question of whether they need to cover their exterior air conditioning unit for the winter.
While it may seem like a good idea, the truth is there are many reasons why you shouldn’t cover your AC unit in the winter. In addition to not being necessary, covering your outdoor air conditioning equipment can sometimes cause problems.
Here, the specialists at West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. share five reasons why covering your AC doesn’t need to be on your fall to-do list and what you should do instead.
1. Snow won’t Hurt Your AC
Outside AC units are supposed to withstand harsh weather conditions like snow in the winter season. These systems are built with sturdy materials and components that can handle the outdoor elements without damage. The coils and fins of the unit are engineered to resist corrosion, and the housing is manufactured to protect the internal elements from moisture and debris.
2. Covering Your Air Conditioner Can Cause Mold
One of the reasons you should avoid covering your air conditioner in the wintertime is because doing so can trap moisture—which is the opposite of what you want in your outdoor unit. That’s because allowing moisture to collect inside the unit produces the perfect conditions for mold and mildew to flourish.
Mold and mildew not only have an unpleasant aroma, but they can also present health risks, especially for people with respiratory issues or allergies. Additionally, the trapped moisture can corrode the internal components of the AC unit.
As an alternative to covering the unit, instead make sure the unit has proper drainage and keep the area around the unit free of debris, allowing for efficient airflow and preventing moisture buildup.
3. Your Covered Air Conditioning Unit Can Attract Animals
You and your family aren’t the only ones who make plans for winter. Animals that live around your home are also looking for a warm, cozy place to crash for the wintry months. For many animals, a covered air conditioner is an awesome winter home.
Birds, mice, chipmunks and even rats often make winter dens inside covered air conditioners. Animals dwelling in a covered air conditioner can cause numerous problems. Rats can chew through wires, insulation and other parts, causing damage that may require expensive repairs. Debris animals bring into the AC to make themselves a warm and comfortable home can block airflow and ventilation, decreasing the efficiency of the unit and potentially causing it to overheat. Additionally, animal waste can result in unsanitary conditions and bad odors.
Leaving your air conditioner uncovered helps dissuade creatures, because an uncovered AC provides less shelter from the elements than a covered unit. That’s better for your cooling system—and leaves you with less mess to pick up and things to repair in the spring.
4. An AC Cover Restricts Airflow
Another reason you shouldn’t cover your AC unit in the winter is because a cover restricts airflow through the unit. Suitable airflow is essential for the AC system because it helps with heat exchange and allows the unit to cool effectively. When airflow is constrained, the system has to work harder to achieve the desired temperature, causing additional energy consumption and strain on the components.
In addition, if you run your AC without realizing that the outdoor unit is covered or because you simply forgot, it could result in a range of problems. One issue is that the lack of proper airflow could cause the compressor to overheat, resulting in its failure or damage. That’s why it is essential to ensure the outdoor unit is always cleared of any barriers and is not covered to maintain the best possible airflow.
5. AC Maintenance Works Better Than Covering Your Air Conditioner
The bottom line is, it’s a lot more effective to do a little maintenance for your cooling system than to cover your exterior AC unit.
There are a number of key maintenance activities you should prioritize to ensure optimal operation and longevity of your AC unit. First, it’s wise to look at your outdoor AC unit regularly and clear any debris such as leaves, sticks and dirt to allow proper airflow. Second, inspect and clean the coils, fins and filters to make sure they are free from dirt and dust buildup that would hinder efficient heat exchange or airflow.
Regular air conditioning maintenance not only boosts efficiency, but it also helps extend the unit’s life span, lowers energy consumption and prevents costly repairs. Rather than using a cover, committing time and effort into routine air conditioning maintenance is a proactive approach that can significantly benefit your entire HVAC system in the long run.