Covering an Air Conditioning Unit: Myths, Facts, and Best Practices

Once the weather starts to cool down, lots of homeowners start considering covering their air conditioning unit to protect it from the elements–but, how necessary is this action? That’s what we’re diving into for today’s post! We’ll explore the myths, go over the facts, and include the best practices when it comes to covering an air conditioning unit. 

If you want to make some informed decisions about maintaining your air conditioning unit during the off-season, this is the blog for you! We’ll help you understand all of the key factors necessary to help you protect your unit and elongate its lifespan. 

Understanding the Myths Around Covering an Air Conditioning Unit

There are quite a few misconceptions out there concerning covering an air conditioning unit, especially when we’re talking about the preparation for the cooler months. Let’s check out a few of the most common myths, shall we?

Myth #1: Covering Your AC Unit in the Winter Saves Energy 

One of the most common myths about covering an air conditioning unit is that it will save you energy in the winter. We could see how that may seem logical, especially since it seems your system would be easier to keep clean. The simple fact is, that’s just not the case. As a matter of fact, in covering up your unit, you are promoting moisture entrapment, which can ultimately lead to rust and corrosion. 

Not to mention that your air conditioning unit was specifically designed to withstand the elements, so, in you covering it up unnecessarily, you could be causing more harm than good. Your best bet would be to ensure that your system is properly maintained and clean at the end of each season so it runs beautifully throughout the year. 

Myth #2: A Cover Protects the Units from All Weather Conditions 

Another serious misconception is that when covering an air conditioning unit your system is getting complete protection from all of the elements. Now, it is true that some covers may shield your system from leaves, debris, or heavy snow, but they absolutely do not allow your AC system to breathe. 

All covers need to be breathable to a certain extent to alleviate moisture buildup. 

Myth #3 Covering Your Unit Helps It Last Longer 

It’s been believed that covering an air conditioning unit will prolong its lifespan. This is not true. In reality, when you utilize the wrong type of cover, or keep the unity very tightly sealed for extended periods of time, you’re at risk for a lot more damage than benefit. 

If you want to be sure that you are the proud owner of a long-lasting unit, the key is not necessarily covering it, but making sure maintenance is conducted regularly.  

Facts About Covering an Air Conditioning Unit

Now that we’ve gone over some of the most common misconceptions, let’s get into the facts:

Fact #1: Covers Are Sometimes Necessary for Protection 

Understand that covering an air conditioning unit isn’t always necessary, but it can definitely be helpful in certain instances. For example, let’s say that your air conditioning unit is placed in a space with lots of debris or falling leaves. When you cover it, you’re protecting your system from unnecessary and unwanted mess. 

In order to keep your system completely protected, the cover being utilized must be breathable and allow for the best airflow. You’ll know you have your hands on a good system cover when your unit is protected from debris without trapping moisture inside. 

Fact #2: Moisture Is an AC Unit’s Worst Enemy 

One of the biggest and most integral facts to understand when it comes to covering an air conditioning unit is that moisture can and will seriously damage your system. Sealing your unit with an improper cover, you can count on moisture from the rain, snow, or condensation to be trapped inside. 

This is the ultimate breeding ground for rust and mold. Your system’s key components, like the coils, compressor, and other electrical connections are at risk. Be sure that any cover you select is breathable and allows room for your unit to keep dry. 

Fact #3: AC Units Are Designed to Withstand the Elements 

It’s no secret that your system was specifically designed to withstand the elements, the catch to this is that your system must be well-maintained. Your more modern systems were made with some of the most durable materials available, and are absolutely equipped to deliver protection against any weather-related damage. 

Because of this, covering an air conditioning unit can do more harm than good, especially if the cover traps moisture. You should focus more on having regular inspections conducted and keeping your maintenance up-to-date. 

Best Practices for Covering an Air Conditioning Unit 

You might be saying to yourself “Well, I still would feel a lot more comfortable if my unit was covered.” We have a few solutions for you! Here are some of the best practices you can partake in to help maintain your unit during the off-season:

Use the Right Cover

If you want to use a cover, make sure you’re using the right one. It needs to be weather-resistant, and most importantly, breathable. These covers will help protect your unit from large debris while still allowing moisture to escape, mitigating rust, and other damage to its components. 

Cover Only When Necessary 

Your air conditioning unit should only be covered when absolutely necessary. Typically, during the off-season or in times with very extreme weather conditions, you should keep it covered. That said, even in those cases, it needs to be done properly. Clean your unit before covering it. Leaves dirt, and debris can potentially accumulate inside and block the airflow if left neglected. 

Ensure Proper Ventilation 

Proper ventilation can truly make or break the potential lifespan of your unit. It’s essential that when you decide to cover it, it has room to breathe. Leave space around the system for air circulation so that your unit can both stay dry and mitigate any unnecessary damage during the off-season. 

Why It’s Important to Maintain Your AC Year-Round 

Your Air Conditioning maintenance is just as important as any other protective measure you may take on behalf of your system, including properly covering an air conditioning unit. Being sure you have regular inspections conducted by a licensed professional technician will save you quite a bit of heartache in the long run.

Basically, covering an air conditioning unit isn’t always the step to take when it comes to your system’s protection. As a matter of fact, it can cause more harm than good if done incorrectly. When you thoroughly understand the differences between the myths, and facts, and how to implement the best practices, you can take the proper steps to protect your system.

Nothing protects your system like your regularly scheduled maintenance. Get in touch with the Optimum Air Solutions team! We’ll work closely with you to understand your heating and cooling needs. Click here to schedule your consultation. 

You’ll be breathing easy in the Big Easy in no time!