When winter weather is in full swing, homeowners often winterize or cover certain areas around their homes. Protecting plants, landscaping, or exterior machines from snow, rain, and wind can help extend their life, but are air conditioning units included in this? Air conditioning units outside the home may not need the preparation you originally thought in order to remain efficient for the next season. Learn more about air conditioning covers and proper maintenance techniques in this blog. 

When A Cover Isn’t Necessary

Putting an air conditioning cover over the unit may seem necessary as moisture rains down during the colder months, but it actually doesn’t affect your AC unit at all. These appliances are built with sturdy metal and moisture-resistant materials to keep out debris and moisture that will damage the unit. These units are designed to be outside year-round, without much extra protection, because internal elements are meant to resist corrosion. 

During the summer with rain and thunderstorms, extreme heat, and direct sunlight, an air conditioning unit doesn’t need a cover, so the winter season is no different.

Potential Issues With AC Unit Covers

Putting a cover or a piece of plastic that is not meant to protect your unit over the air conditioner can cause extensive damage. Some options will protect certain areas of the unit, without trapping debris or moisture, but don’t encapsulate the entire air conditioner. Here are some of the issues you may experience with a covered unit.

Mold Growth

Putting a plastic, cloth, or synthetic material over your air conditioner can trap in water particles, leading to mold growth throughout the system. Not only can this lead to deterioration, but the mold can get into your filters, causing the air put into your home to be contaminated. 

Any moisture left in the unit before putting on the cover will be trapped inside, leading to the corrosion of coils, electrical components, and filters. Mold will also pose major health risks for those in your home and can cause a strong odor to emanate from the AC unit when you turn it on again in the spring/summer. Performing cleaning and maintenance on the air conditioning unit before the winter season will protect it from damage.

Animal Homes

A warm and cozy space will be the perfect hideout for small animals and rodents. The small openings and pockets inside a covered air conditioner can attract squirrels, rats, mice, insects, raccoons, and feral cats. These animals will take shelter in your air conditioner and could cause damage and droppings that lead to more work for you in the spring season. 

Restricted Airflow

One of the biggest reasons not to apply a cover to your AC unit is because of restricted airflow. This is necessary for the unit to help with heat exchange and allows the unit to cool the home efficiently. Without proper ventilation and air flow, your AC unit will have to use more energy to keep your home cool, resulting in higher energy bills. 

Especially if you leave the cover on the unit once you start using it again, the unit could overheat or expend excess energy to cool itself, resulting in a shorter lifespan. Your outdoor unit should always be free of blockages, including shrubs, toys, and equipment. 

When You Should Cover Your Air Conditioning Unit

There are some unique circumstances when an air conditioning cover can be useful. For example, areas or homes with large trees and heavy falling debris can benefit from the added protection. These covers are often secured to the top of the unit to prevent leaves and twigs from getting inside. Cleaning and annual maintenance can also help remove debris that can cause damage to an AC unit. 

Some sturdy top coverings can be used if the AC is placed under a roof line prone to icicles. These covers don’t restrict air flow but will keep the shards of ice from damaging your unit or melting into the components. 

Why Homeowners Should Focus On AC Maintenance

The best way to ensure that your AC unit continues running, doesn’t grow mold, and lasts for many years is to schedule annual maintenance. It is more effective to complete maintenance and cleaning than to install a cover on an outdoor unit. Removing any debris before the winter season, cleaning out excess moisture, and replacing filters will help ensure air moves through your unit without a problem.

Mountain Valley Heating & Air Conditioning offers reliable maintenance and cleaning for homes in Northern Utah. We provide premier services that will help keep your home at just the right temperature for the current season. We know that finding a trustworthy company can be a hassle, so we provide clear communication and affordable pricing so you can live comfortably. Whether you have an air conditioning or furnace need, our experienced team is here to help.