Should You Use an Air Conditioner Cover? Not Always.

One issue that causes confusion for a lot of Canadian homeowners is how to protect these systems when they’re not in use during the winter months. Should you cover your air conditioner in the winter? Depending on who you ask, you’ll get conflicting advice. So, let’s consider the pros and cons.

Should You Cover Your AC in the Winter?

Air conditioning systems are a substantial investment, and it’s important to take good care of them. That means protecting them from ice and debris. So, should you cover your AC in winter? Not always.

A lot of people decide to cover their air conditioners during the coldest months of the year to protect them from falling leaves, ice and snow damage.

As temperatures rise and fall and the snow melts and then refreezes, it may expand and damage the fan and other delicate parts. Covering the AC system can offer some protection from this kind of damage but they’re not perfect either.

In many cases, modern systems are designed to withstand winters, and your manufacturer may well recommend you NOT cover it.

What About Covering Heat Pumps?

In most cases, heat pumps should remain uncovered during the winter, especially if you will be operating it in heating mode. While heat pumps may not be effective in extremely cold weather, they can be a good option for heating during milder stretches.

Heat pumps are generally more cost-effective to operate. And since most system can be set to automatically switch between backup heating options like your furnace when required, it is usually best to keep your heat pump uncovered.

Will Snow Damage My Air Conditioner?

Snow itself isn’t a problem for air conditioning units. Modern central air conditioning units usually have robust external vents and fans. However, it may become an issue if a lot of snow is allowed to build up inside the unit. 

Ideally you want to keep the unit from being entirely buried in snow and ice. And be careful when plowing snow that it’s not being pushed or dumped into your unit.

This can add excess weight and damage the unit or refrigerant lines.

Why Shouldn’t You Cover Your Air Conditioner During the Winter?

Covering your air conditioner can protect against some forms of damage. However, covering your AC unit can cause problems in its own right. Depending on the type of cover you choose, you could increase the risk of dampness and condensation forming under the cover, leading to mold and rust. In addition, rodents may take shelter inside the cover, seeing it as a spot to hide from the elements.

It’s this concern about rust and rodent infestations that makes some people wary of covering their AC units.

Weighing the Pros and Cons

So, how can you decide whether the best course of action is to cover your AC unit or leave it uncovered? Two things to consider are the weather in your area and the location of your air conditioning unit.

You may decide it makes more sense to leave your AC unit uncovered if:

• The system is in a sheltered spot that is unlikely to be covered by snow or ice.
• The weather is generally mild in your area, and you don’t see very low temperatures or heavy snowfall.

On the other hand, a cover could make sense if:

• Your AC unit is exposed to the elements or in an area where falling leaves or icicles could be an issue.
• You get a lot of snow or extreme temperatures during the winter months.

Keep in mind that there’s more than one option when it comes to covering your air conditioner. While soft covers are popular for preventing dust, debris and leaves from getting into the vents, other covers may offer better ventilation.

How to Winterize Your Air Conditioner

Soft covers that drape over the top of the air conditioning unit are quite inexpensive and are a good option for stopping snow, dust, leaves and debris from getting into the unit.

Using Plywood to Protect Your Unit

However, if you’re mostly concerned about stopping snow from collecting on top of the unit, using plywood cover weighed down with bricks could be a low-cost and effective option.

This can also help protect it from actual damage from heavy icicles or branches that might fall on the unit.

Note that this kind of cover won’t protect your AC unit from leaves, twigs or other debris that might get blown into the vents during the autumn. But this isn’t as much of a concern and you can simply clean your unit in the fall and spring.

Make cleaning and inspecting your AC system a regular part of your fall routine and getting your furnace ready for winter.

Another option is to construct an awning or a shelter above the unit. This will shelter the air conditioner itself, while still offering ventilation that will prevent condensation. 

IMPORTANT: Make sure any permanent shelter does not obstruct airflow. People sometimes build wooden frames around the exterior air conditioner unit to conceal it, but this can impact its proper functioning and ability to vent heat.

Bottom Line

Ultimately, it’s not likely to make a critical difference one way or the other, so it mostly comes down to personal choice. And of course, always be sure to follow your manufacturer’s recommendations.

Get an End of Season Deal on a New AC

If your current air conditioner is failing or inefficient, it may be time for an upgrade. It’s important to shop around to find the best air conditioning unit for the size of your home and to get the best prices.

At FurnacePrices.ca, we’re here to help you with your air conditioning purchase, and help you avoid some of the most common mistakes people make when choosing an air conditioner.

Next time you’re looking for a heating system or air conditioner, compare price quotes on FurnacePrices.ca, so you can feel confident you’re getting the best deal.

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