As the sweltering summer sun starts to fade and the cooler temperatures of fall starts to settle in, residents of Dresden 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 AC for the winter.
While it may seem like a smart idea, the reality is there are a number of reasons why you shouldn’t cover your AC unit in the winter. Along with not being necessary, covering your outdoor air conditioning equipment can even cause problems.
Here, the professionals at McFadden Heating & Cooling 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. Your AC Unit Isn’t Damaged by Snow
Exterior AC units are built to withstand harsh weather conditions like snow in the wintertime. These units are built with sturdy materials and hardware 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 manufactured to protect the internal elements from moisture and debris.
2. Covered AC Systems may Encourage Mold Growth
One of the reasons you shouldn’t cover your AC unit in the cold months is because doing so can trap moisture—which is definitely not what you want in your outdoor unit. That’s because trapping moisture inside the unit produces the perfect conditions for mold and mildew to spread.
Mold and mildew not only have an unpleasant aroma, but they can also present health risks, especially for people with respiratory issues or allergies. Plus, the unwanted moisture can corrode the internal components of the AC unit.
As an alternative to covering the unit, instead ensure proper drainage and keep the area around the unit clear of debris, allowing for efficient airflow and preventing moisture buildup.
3. Covered AC Systems Can Host Animals
Humans 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 hide out for the cold months. For many critters, a covered air conditioner is an ideal winter dwelling.
Birds, mice, chipmunks and even rats commonly make nests inside covered air conditioners. Animals living in a covered air conditioning unit 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 bed can block airflow and ventilation, limiting the efficiency of the unit and potentially causing it to overheat. Moreover, animal waste can result in unsanitary conditions and bad odors.
Leaving your air conditioner uncovered helps deter wildlife, because an uncovered AC offers less shelter from the elements than a covered unit. That’s better for your AC—and leaves you with less mess to clean up and things to repair once the snow melts.
4. An AC Cover Restricts Airflow
Another reason not to cover your air conditioning equipment in the winter is because a cover blocks airflow through the unit. Proper airflow is vital for the AC system because it facilitates heat exchange and enables the unit to cool properly. When airflow is restricted, the system has to work harder to achieve the desired temperature, resulting in additional energy consumption and strain on the components.
In addition, if you run your air conditioner without noticing that the outside unit is covered or because you simply forgot, it could result in a range of problems. One issue is that the lack of appropriate airflow could cause the compressor to overheat, leading to its failure or damage. That’s why it is crucial to ensure the outdoor unit is always cleared of any barriers and is not covered to maintain the best possible airflow.
5. AC Maintenance Offers More Benefits Than Covering Your Air Conditioner
The bottom line is, it’s lots more effective to do a little maintenance for your air conditioning unit than to cover your outside AC unit.
There are numerous key maintenance tasks you should prioritize to ensure maximum operation and longevity of your AC unit. First, it’s a good idea to examine your outdoor AC unit regularly and remove any debris such as leaves, sticks and dirt to allow proper airflow. Second, examine and clean the coils, fins and filters to make sure they are free from dirt and dust buildup that would impede efficient heat exchange or airflow.
Regular air conditioning maintenance not only enhances efficiency, but it also helps extend the unit’s life span, lowers energy consumption and avoids costly repairs. Rather than using a cover, committing time and effort into routine air conditioning maintenance is a proactive strategy that can substantially benefit your entire HVAC system in the long run.
