As the hot summer sunshine starts to fade and the relief of fall starts to settle in, residents of Hudsonville 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 outdoor AC for the winter.
While it may seem like a good idea, the fact 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 sometimes cause problems.
Here, the specialists at West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services 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
Outdoor AC units are supposed to withstand harsh weather conditions like snow in the winter. These machines are built with solid 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 components from moisture and debris.
2. Covering AC Systems can Encourage Mold
One of the reasons you should avoid covering your outdoor air conditioning equipment 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 allowing moisture to collect inside the unit creates 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 individuals with respiratory issues or allergies. Additionally, the trapped moisture can corrode the internal components of the AC unit.
Rather than 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. A Covered Air Conditioner Can Host Animals
Human beings aren’t the only ones who prepare for winter. Animals that live around your home are also looking for a warm, cozy place to live for the wintry months. For many creatures, a covered air conditioner is an awesome winter home.
Birds, mice, chipmunks and even rats often make homes inside covered air conditioners. Animals residing in a covered AC unit can cause several problems. Rats can chew through wires, insulation and other connections, causing damage that may require pricey repairs. Debris animals bring into the AC to create a warm and comfortable nest can block airflow and ventilation, reducing the efficiency of the AC and potentially causing it to overheat. Moreover, animal excrement 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 air conditioner—and leaves you with less mess to throw away and things to repair once the snow melts.
4. A Winter Cover for AC Units Restricts Airflow
Another reason not to cover your air conditioning equipment in the winter is because a cover restricts airflow through the unit. Proper 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 air conditioner 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 shortage of appropriate airflow could cause the compressor to overheat, leading to its failure or damage. That’s why it is essential to ensure the outdoor unit is always cleared of any obstructions 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 whole 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 tasks you should prioritize to ensure the best possible function and longevity of your AC unit. First, it’s wise to look at your outdoor AC unit regularly and remove any debris such as leaves, sticks and dirt to maintain 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 enhances 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 approach that can significantly benefit your entire HVAC system in the long run.
