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Nobody wants their air conditioning system to fail in the middle of summer. Each year, as winter approaches, homeowners across the country consider how to prepare their air conditioner from the falling leaves, snow, ice, and other threats.
You might wonder, should you cover your air conditioner in the winter to protect it until the snow melts at the start of spring? The answer to this question is a qualified yes – but be sure to do it the right way to avoid inadvertently causing more damage to your air conditioner.
Before deciding what to do, consider the benefits and drawbacks of covering your air conditioner. Below, Air Unlimited Heating and Cooling, one of the leading Overland Park AC service contractors, offers their perspective on covering air conditioners.
Advantages of Covering Your Air Conditioner
Some of the advantages of covering your air conditioner are self-evident. Covering your external AC unit prevents leaves from falling into the unit and obstructing airflow. You might think that it would also prevent ice and snow from causing the AC unit to rust, but as we’ll see, that might not be the case.
If leaves and debris are already a concern around your system, regular filter changes can help your system stay clean. Learn more about our AC filter replacement service
Disadvantages of Covering Your Air Conditioner
Paradoxically, covering your air conditioner with a plastic sheet or tarp could promote rust because it prevents water that is already present from evaporating. Water will corrode metal and damage wiring. Even worse, when the weather turns cold, the water will turn to ice, damaging the condenser coils.
Water brings other risks, such as mold and animals looking for shelter in the winter. Small animals can drag in debris and chew on wiring as they make themselves at home.
Due to these risks, covering your air conditioner might void the manufacturer’s warranty on your air conditioning unit. AC units are built to withstand all weather, so manufacturers typically don’t recommend covering them.
If you notice unusual noises or performance issues, consider scheduling AC repair to prevent further damage.
Why Your Air Conditioner Needs Airflow
Air conditioners work by collecting and transferring heat. The evaporator coil removes heat from inside your home, while the condenser coil releases heat outdoors. Without airflow, coils cannot function properly.
Leaves and debris can obstruct airflow, but so can snow and ice. If ice surrounds the compressor coils, they cannot convey heat to the outside air. Ice also expands as it freezes, bending or stressing the coils.
Maintaining clean airflow is essential for AC health. Our AC maintenance services help ensure your system is ready for both winter and summer operation.
Tips on Covering Your Air Conditioner
AC contractors are conflicted on the issue, so should you cover your air conditioner in the winter? If you do cover your air conditioner, keep the following suggestions in mind:
- Use a breathable cover that keeps leaves and pine needles out but lets water escape.
- Do not cover the sides or base of your air conditioner. Doing so will trap water, increase ice formation, and damage compressor coils.
- Clear debris around the base of your air conditioning unit.
Some experts recommend erecting a temporary awning or permanent roof. Keep in mind that the roof should not be so close to the unit that it interferes with evaporation.
One method of covering your air conditioner that strikes a happy medium is to buy a wire mesh cover. The wire mesh keeps out debris and, depending on its shape, might direct some snow and meltwater away from the air conditioning unit. However, the mesh does not hinder evaporation or obstruct airflow. If your air conditioner unit is more than 15 years old, consider discussing AC installation options with a technician.
If you own a ductless or mini-split system, winter care may differ. Our team also provides ductless AC repair if yours struggles during seasonal changes. Local Overland Park AC contractors such as Air Unlimited Heating and Cooling would be happy to discuss the latest models with you.
AC Problems to Watch out for during the Winter
Stray leaves, ice, and snow aren’t the only problems your air conditioning unit might face.
To save yourself from repair bills in the spring, make sure your air conditioner doesn’t become a home for local squirrels or other wildlife. Especially if you have sheltered it from the elements, an air conditioning compressor can be an attractive hiding place. The bedding that they bring in with them can obstruct airflow.
Listen for unusual sounds when you restart the AC in spring. If airflow is weak or the system strains, your system may need professional attention. Clogged filters can also worsen winter issues, learn more about whole-home air quality solutions on our air filtration page.
What to Do with Window Unit Air Conditioners in the Winter
The above recommendations are for people with mini-split, central air, or HVAC systems with an external, fixed compressor. Homeowners with window-mounted air conditioning units should remove them from windows during the winter months. Moving them inside protects them from moisture, storm damage, and yard debris during the winter.
As with external compressors, try not to let wild animals get to them and keep them away from moisture and humidity. As long as you store the air conditioner in a dry place, you can cover the air conditioner or store it in a box until you are ready to use it again in the spring,
Be careful when removing or installing a window-mounted AC unit. Keep pets and children away from the ground beneath the window in case the air conditioner falls. Don’t try to lift or install a window-mounted air conditioning unit yourself.
Why Regular AC Maintenance Matters
Temperature changes, moisture, and normal wear will still affect your AC, even if covered. Regular professional maintenance is the best way to keep your system reliable, efficient, and ready for summer.
Avoid waiting until hot weather arrives to fix AC issues. Preventive AC maintenance keeps your system from developing costly problems.
Quality AC Maintenance by Air Unlimited Heating and Cooling
For homeowners in the Overland Park area, Air Unlimited Heating and Cooling can inspect your heating and cooling system, fix any issues, and replace any components that aren’t working the way they should.
Should you cover your air conditioner in the winter? Maybe not, but you should still take steps to protect it. If you have any problems with air conditioning, call Air Unlimited Heating and Cooling at (816) 542-6237 to schedule an appointment today.
