Should I Put A Cover On My AC Unit During Winter?
Putting a cover on your air conditioner during the winter can actually do more harm than good.
In a way it makes sense right?
When you are done with your air conditioner for the year, you put a cover on it to help protect the internal parts and keep it free from debris.
Well, it turns out this actually is not the best thing to do when it comes to your air conditioner.
Believe it or not, air conditioners of today are built to be quite durable and endure some harsh conditions all year long.
Although you may think it will help to cover your air conditioner from the snow, you actually run the risk of harming it if you do due to trapping in moisture.
I mean, don’t you think manufactures would recommend you utilize a cover if it was truly necessary? Yet none of them do.
Here are some popular reasons why covering your air conditioner when not in use is not recommended.
Mold, Mildew and Condensation
By placing a cover over your air conditioner, you actually run the risk of trapping condensation in the unit and it turning into mold or mildew over time.
Also, rusting parts can cause you to possibly need an air conditioner repair sooner than usual.
The best place for mold and mildew to grow is in a damp, dark and warm place and by using an AC cover you are creating this exact situation.
Home For Rodents
During the cold winters, many rodents seek shelter from the cold.
What a great little home you are creating for them if you are using a cover on your air conditioner!
With rodents making their home in your AC unit, you run the risk of chewed electrical wires and animal excrement in your unit as well. Gross.
What To Do Instead
The most popular times for people to cover their air conditioners is in the fall and winter.
However, instead of covering your unit all season long, clean your AC out every so often if you feel inclined.
Like previously stated, air conditioners are made to withstand harsh conditions including leaves and snow.
If you want to go the extra step and clean out the leaves before winter go for it, but do not cover the unit when finished.
Snow is after-all just made of water and it will in no way harm your air conditioner.
When spring time comes, schedule your annual air conditioner maintenance and we will clean it up for you and make it look just like new!
