Should I Cover My AC Unit In The Winter
It's that time of year again - the leaves are changing color, the air is getting colder, and it's time to start thinking about how to prepare your air conditioning unit for the harsh weather. One common question that never fails to trend during this season is, “Should I cover my AC unit in the winter?”
The quick answer is no. Outdoor units for AC systems are specifically designed to withstand harsh environments and they don’t need protection from snow, sun, or rain.
However, you may want to cover it during the fall to prevent dry leaves and other debris might already be building up without you noticing it.
The Importance of Good Condenser Placement
The outdoor unit or the condenser of a typical AC system is, by design, exposed to the elements which is why most owners in Utah often find themselves asking: Should I cover my AC unit in the winter?
This component plays an important role in the overall functioning of the AC, as it helps to cool the circulating refrigerant and allows gas vapor to be condensed into liquid.
The location of the condenser unit can have an impact on its performance, as exposure to direct sunlight or inclement weather may affect its ability to operate at peak efficiency. Ideally, this component should be situated in a shady area that is protected from strong winds and rainstorms, so that it is able to operate optimally under most conditions.
Because of the crucial function of the condenser unit, most homeowners are understandably worried about them which leads them to ask, “Should I cover my AC unit in the winter when there is risk of snow building up inside?”
A Blocked Condenser Means Suboptimal AC
When an air conditioner's condenser becomes blocked, it can lead to a wide range of issues. In some cases, the refrigerant may not properly circulate through the system, causing the compressor to overheat and break down.
The blocked condenser can also restrict airflow, resulting in a reduction in system capacity and performance. To make matters worse, a blocked condenser also tends to be more prone to freezing up, which can cause damage to the compressor and other internal components.
In short, it is essential to keep your air conditioner condenser free from debris and other airflow blockages if you want to avoid costly repairs or replacements down the road.
So should I cover my AC unit in the winter to prevent a blocked condenser?
Should I Cover My AC Unit in the Winter?
You may be understandably worried about your condenser unit freezing over and getting blocked by ice and snow which is why most Utah residents find themselves asking: “Should I cover my AC unit in the winter?” Getting it completely covered in snow and ice, after all, is the very definition of blocked airflow.
This being said, if you don’t plan on using the AC during the winter, covering it isn’t necessary. Condenser units are developed specifically to withstand harsh sunlight, snow, and even the heaviest downpour.
Aside from its components being coated with protective paint, the large vents and drains also prevent moisture from building up inside the unit. What it’s not designed for is trapped moisture, debris, and nesting animals.
And covering them up during the winter can actually make these things more likely. From this standpoint, it’s pretty obvious that the answer to, “Should I cover my AC unit during the winter?” obviously leans more toward the negative.
A covered AC unit does not only trap moisture, it also serves as an attractive spot for animals to take shelter during the cold winters.
How to Properly Winterize Your AC
If you’re asking, “Should I cover my AC unit in the winter,” you’re probably really asking about how to protect your unit from the harsh Utah weather.
Instead of asking should I cover my AC unit in the winter, it is more important to take steps to protect your air conditioning system from the ravages of cold weather by winterizing your unit properly. Here are the best steps:
Remove any debris that may have accumulated in or around the unit over the course of the summer
Check that hoses, pipes, and other sensitive components are adequately insulated or have maintenance scheduled so trained professionals can do it for you.
Replace any damaged parts as necessary
These steps will help ensure that your system is working at peak performance whenever you need it again in the warmer months ahead.
Covering the AC unit’s outdoor condenser, however, is not a necessary step in the process.
Should I cover my AC unit in the winter if it’s a window-mounted version? The best course of action is to take it down completely before the cold weather hits.
Removing this AC unit from your window can help to prevent leaking, which can lead to significant damage in your home over time. It will also allow you to properly insulate your windows and other openings, preventing cold air from getting inside and keeping warm air in.
When and How to Cover Your AC Unit
But just because our answer to the question of should I cover my AC unit in the winter is a resounding no means that we should never cover our AC units. There are definitely some instances that we should definitely cover them such as:
In the fall when leaves and debris can fit into the vents and settle inside the unit
During renovations when construction debris and an unusual amount of dust can accumulate inside the unit
Covering your condenser during these times will reduce the amount of dirt and other gunk that can stick to your unit and impede its performance. So, if you want to keep your condenser running smoothly throughout the year – including during fall – make sure to include covering in your maintenance routine.
There are a few things you should keep in mind if you do decide to cover your AC unit in the winter.
Choose a cover that is specifically designed for AC units. These covers are usually made of weather-resistant material and have ventilation holes to prevent condensation buildup.
Clean your AC unit before you cover it. This will help prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
Check your AC unit regularly to make sure the cover is not causing any damage.
Conclusion
Almost like clockwork, the question, “Should I cover my AC unit in the winter?” trends in Utah in the pre-winter months and we’d like to put this yearly charade to an end.
No!
It’s not necessary nor is it beneficial to cover your AC unit in the winter. Doing so might end up costing you more than what you thought you’d be saving by covering your condenser unit. Instead, maintaining your air conditioning system should be the goal as improper care and storage can lead to costly repairs down the road.
If you are unsure of how to properly winterize your AC system, our team at Crystal Clean Vents can help. We have years of experience in helping homeowners across Utah maintain their cooling systems through the winter months.
So, should I cover my AC unit in the winter?
Hopefully, we’ve answered this question with finality. By following our simple tips, you can ensure that your AC system is well-prepared for the harsh winter weather ahead. So if you are ready to get started on winterizing your air conditioner, give us a call today! We look forward to working with you soon.