The temperatures have been at an all-time high this time of year, but it won’t last forever. As the days grow cold and you start cranking your heat up, you may think to yourself, should I cover my air conditioner? Depending on the type of ac unit, the answer is yes, but probably not when you think.
Squirrels and other critters will love you for covering your AC- but your AC unit probably won’t.
Window AC Units VS. Central AC
If you have a window ac unit, you should remove and store it for the winter months as those are not always created to be outside year-round. Storing it indoors is much more beneficial than trying to cover it in winter, as cold air may still seep in around the window edges. In addition, you may be creating a breeding ground for mold and critters to take up residence.
Permanently mounted units such as Central AC, however, are intended to be outside year-round and are built to withstand the elements. Just as summer rainstorms will not damage your unit, snowfall won’t either. Not only is it not necessary to cover your central air conditioning unit, but also doing so is likely to create problems rather than prevent them.
Mold vs Cold
Putting a cover on your air conditioning unit is not needed for keeping moisture out and in fact causes the opposite effect. The cover will contain the moisture, leaving it to fester in your unit, eventually creating mold and rust. The longer this goes unnoticed the more damaging it will be, and you may find yourself in need of a new unit once the temperature spikes again.
Creature Comforts
If you cover your unit through the winter months, you may also find that come spring that a creature has made a home of it. Creating a barrier between your unit and wildlife may seem like a good idea, but you are actually making it more enticing for them. Small creatures will have an easy time getting under the cover, where they will have a confined space to escape the elements. Leaving your unit out in the cold ensures that animals will not be able to use it for refuge.
When you should ACTUALLY cover your air conditioning unit.
If you do want to cover your central air conditioning unit, fall is the time to do it. Doing so prevents debris such as falling leaves and acorns from entering the machine. In this case a breathable cover is advised. You can also cover the unit with a simple sturdy top to keep debris out.
Air conditioning units are vital for getting us through the summer months, and it is natural to want to preserve them as much as possible. Just remember the key takeaways:
- If you are utilizing a window unit, remove and store it for the winter months as those units are not always created to be outside year-round.
- Never use a fully enclosed cover on your air conditioner, or you will be dealing with unwanted circumstances such as mold.
- If you do use a cover, the time to use it is in the fall. Make sure it is breathable or only covers the top.
Follow these tips, and your unit should be around to keep you cool for years to come!
If you have further questions or need recommendations, call TMS at 860-314-1518. Or email us via our Contact Page. After all, staying informed is the first step to ensuring your home remains a comfortable haven year-round!
