Winter is coming. It’s time to turn off our air conditioners and crank the heat. The big question of the season is whether or not to cover the air conditioner when it’s shut off. Let’s go over some of the facts.
Air conditioners can stand up to extreme weather
A/C units are designed to function properly in any weather, even harsh Minnesota winters. The hard exterior shell, called a condenser, is coated with a long-lasting, durable finish. The air conditioner’s coils can also withstand severe temperatures and precipitation.
Since air conditioners are built with top-notch materials, they typically don’t need to be covered when they’re not in use. Actually, a majority of manufacturers say to not cover the A/C unit at all. However, many people see advantages to doing so.
What are the pros of covering?
The strongest argument for covering your air conditioner is that it blocks seeds and leaves from entering the system. These create pockets where water can pool up,and this could cause a lot of problems. Keeping autumn debris out of your system helps reduce moisture build-up, which keeps your A/C in good shape.
Here’s another advantage to covering. Wet leaves, ice, or snow can build up on top of your A/C unit. If the weight presses down on the coils over a long period of time,it could cause damage to your system. Attaching a hard covering, or a piece of plywood to the top of your A/C unit may absorb some of this weight.
What are the cons of covering?
More often than not, covering your air conditioner leads to excess moisture stuck in your system. This is the primary disadvantage to covering your A/C. It’s the main reason why many professionals don’t suggest a cover. Water build-up is the last thing you want in your air conditioner. It can cause numerous issues, such as:
- Mold problems, which could reduce efficiency by blocking airflow through the coils
- Safety concerns with your A/C’s circuits and electrical wiring system
- Freezing coils
- Corrosion and rust
Another downside to an A/C cover is that they tend to attract unwanted critters and rodents. In addition, air conditioner covers make cozy winter homes for these critters. You probably don’t want your A/C to become mouse-infested, and you definitely don’t want them gnawing through your system’s electrical wiring.
Conclusion
After considering the pros and cons, the decision is up to you. Many professionals will say that you don’t need to cover your air conditioner. The systems are built to last through anything, even our brutal Minnesota winters. In addition, some experts will advise you to cover your air conditioner in the fall to prevent leaves and seeds from entering your system. For instance, if you do decide to cover your A/C unit, only the top portion should be shielded. If the entire air conditioner is covered, airflow will be restricted. This leads to unwanted moisture build-up, which we do not want.
The best way to make sure your air conditioner is in good shape is through routine maintenance from one of our certified HVAC specialists. Give Ron’s Mechanical a call today at (952) 445-8585. We look forward to serving you.
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