Should I put a cover on my outside air conditioner?

Outdoor cooling units are built to endure these harsh winter weather conditions, which eliminates the need for a cover. Moisture (water) can freeze the air conditioner’s condenser coils, which can cause damage over time. However, there is no way to keep moisture out 100% of the time.

Is it safe to cover your air conditioner in the winter?

Though the units are certainly tested to withstand icy conditions, excessive snow and ice can be damaging to the coils over time. One thing to keep in mind is that any type of plastic or airflow-restrictive covering will actually promote rusting and internal moisture damage, and therefore should never be used.

Can I put a cover on my air conditioner?

To cover your air conditioner, cover only the top of the unit. Some full-sized AC covers may look pretty, but they can damage the unit for some of the reasons already mentioned. You can make your own air conditioner cover, but it is often easier just to purchase one.

What can I use to cover my AC unit?

Use a cover made of breathable material. Put plywood over the top of the unit only to shield from snow and ice, weighing it down with bricks or rocks to keep in place. Install a wood awning or shelter attached to the building that covers the top of the unit.

How do I protect my outside air conditioner?

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends covering your outdoor unit with a tarp or other protective material. This can prevent winter weather from having an unwanted impact on your outdoor equipment and can protect your HVAC system.

How do I protect my air conditioner for the winter?

Put plywood over the top of the unit only to shield from snow and ice, weighing it down with bricks or rocks to keep in place. Install a wood awning or shelter attached to the building that covers the top of the unit. Plant shrubs around the unit to protect from wind and blowing snow.

Should you cover your AC unit in summer?

If you’re considering covering your outside AC unit in the summer, whether to protect it from bad weather or to possibly save energy, the reality is that you should never cover your AC unit – not even during bad weather. For one thing, outdoor AC units are specifically designed to live outdoors.

What should I use to cover my air conditioner in the winter?

How to cover an air conditioner for winter (the RIGHT way)

• Use a cover made of breathable material.
• Put plywood over the top of the unit only to shield from snow and ice, weighing it down with bricks or rocks to keep in place.
• Install a wood awning or shelter attached to the building that covers the top of the unit.

How do I protect my air conditioner in the winter?

How can I defrost my AC quickly?

If the AC unit is blowing hot air, first try turning off your air conditioner but leaving the fan on so it can defrost the AC unit. The AC’s indoor fan will blow warm air over your AC’s frozen coils, helping the ice thaw faster. Also check for a dirty air filter, which could be causing air flow blockage.