As the scorching summer sunshine starts to fade and the refreshingly cool weather of fall starts to settle in, residents of Muskogee start preparing their homes and yards for the wintertime. For many, that leads to the question of whether they need to cover their outdoor air conditioner for the winter.
While it may seem like a good idea, the truth is there are many reasons why you shouldn’t cover your AC unit in the winter. In addition to not being necessary, covering your outdoor air conditioning equipment can sometimes cause problems.
Here, the experts at Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc. share five reasons why covering your air conditioner 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
Outdoor AC units are built to withstand harsh weather conditions like snow in the wintertime. These machines are built with sturdy materials and hardware that can handle the outdoor elements without damage. The coils and fins of the unit are engineered to resist corrosion, and the housing is designed to protect the internal parts from moisture and debris.
2. Covered AC Systems may Encourage Mold Growth
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 not at all what you want in your outdoor unit. That’s because sealing moisture inside the unit generates the perfect conditions for mold and mildew to flourish.
Mold and mildew not only have an undesirable aroma, but they can also pose health risks, especially for people with respiratory issues or allergies. Also, the trapped moisture can corrode the internal components of the AC unit.
Rather than covering the unit, instead make sure the unit has proper drainage and keep the area around the unit clean of debris, allowing for efficient airflow and preventing moisture buildup.
3. Your Covered Air Conditioning Unit Can Host Animals
Humans aren’t the only ones who get ready for winter. Animals that live around your home are also hunting for a warm, cozy place to crash for the wintry months. For many creatures, a covered air conditioner is an awesome winter home.
Birds, mice, chipmunks and even rats often make nests inside covered air conditioners. Animals dwelling in a covered air conditioner can cause numerous problems. Rodents can chew through wires, insulation and other connections, causing damage that may require costly repairs. Debris animals bring into the AC to make themselves a warm and comfortable home can obstruct airflow and ventilation, reducing the efficiency of the unit and potentially causing it to overheat. Moreover, animal excrement can result in unsanitary conditions and bad odors.
Leaving your air conditioner uncovered helps discourage animals, because an uncovered AC provides less shelter from cold weather than a covered unit. That’s better for your cooling system—and leaves you with less mess to pick up and things to repair when winter is over.
4. An AC Cover Restricts Airflow
Another reason not to cover your AC unit in the winter is because a cover blocks airflow through the unit. Adequate airflow is essential for the AC system because it facilitates heat exchange and permits the unit to cool effectively. When airflow is reduced, the system has to work harder to reach the desired temperature, causing additional energy consumption and strain on the components.
In addition, if you use your AC without noticing that the exterior unit is covered or because you simply forgot, it could result in a range of problems. One issue is that the lack of proper airflow could cause the compressor to overheat, causing its failure or damage. That’s why it is crucial to ensure the outdoor unit has no obstructions and is not covered to maintain optimal airflow.
5. AC Maintenance Is More Effective Than Covering Your Air Conditioner
The bottom line is, it's a lot more effective to do a little maintenance for your air conditioner than to cover your exterior AC unit.
There are numerous key maintenance tasks you should prioritize to ensure maximum operation and longevity of your AC unit. First, it’s smart to check your outdoor AC unit regularly and clear any debris such as leaves, sticks and dirt to maintain proper airflow. Second, inspect and clean the coils, fins and filters to make sure you don't see any dirt and dust buildup that would hinder efficient heat exchange or airflow.
Scheduled air conditioning maintenance not only enhances efficiency, but it also helps extend the unit's life span, reduces energy consumption and prevents costly repairs. Rather than using a cover, investing time and effort into routine air conditioning maintenance is a proactive strategy that can significantly benefit your entire HVAC system in the long run.