Can window AC units withstand rain?

Author: Prof. Bret Kunze  |  Last update: Tuesday, April 1, 2025

While rain will not damage your air conditioner, deep standing water could. If there is more than about 15 inches of water, the moving parts and electrical components may not be able to operate. After the water recedes, it's best to call an HVAC contractor to check the unit before you restart it.

Is it okay for window AC to get rained on?

You don't have to worry about your AC getting wet in regular rain: all electrical components are protected from water. Everything else is made from durable materials that stand up to the test of time and weather.

What happens if rain gets in your air conditioner?

Can the rain potentially damage your AC unit, and should you prepare for more frequent AC repair calls? The quick answer is no. The rain itself cannot damage your AC unit. Outdoor units can withstand intense weather, including frequent thunderstorms.

Do I need to cover my AC unit when it rains?

The fact of the matter is that it isn't necessary to cover your air conditioner for winter or cold weather, or at any other time in the spring, summer, or fall. The outdoor unit is designed for outdoor installation and can withstand even extreme weather, including rain, high wind speeds, snow, winter storms, and ice.

Is it safe to run window AC during thunderstorms?

Today, one of the most trusted local HVAC companies, Stone Heating and Air, explains why you should turn off your air conditioner during a thunderstorm. While there's only a small possibility that lightning will strike your home, it can cause a huge power surge through your electrical system if it does happen.

How Does A Window Air Conditioning Unit Not Get Damaged In The Rain?

What happens if lightning strikes an air conditioner?

HVAC evaluations have shown that lightning can blow a hole in the lineset, which connects indoor equipment to the outdoor condensing unit. This compromises the entire refrigerant circuit, requiring repairs.

Is it okay to turn on AC during rain?

Yes, you can use your AC during rain for a variety of reasons, but only if it has: Weatherproof Design: Split AC outdoor units are designed to handle rain and other weather conditions. Consistent Performance: The AC can maintain cooling efficiency even during wet weather.

Is it OK to keep AC outdoor unit in rain?

Wondering if your outdoor AC unit needs protection from rainfall? No, you should not cover your outdoor AC unit when it's raining. You may reach for the umbrella when the rain starts to fall, but your AC unit was designed to withstand most elements of nature.

Should you cover your window AC unit in the winter?

If you have a window unit, window air conditioner covers are usually not recommended either, because even the best cover won't keep the cold and moisture out. It's best to just take your window air conditioner out and put it in storage until summertime.

Is AC water proof?

The answer is yes. Air conditioners are designed to withstand normal weather conditions, including rain. The outdoor components of most AC systems are built with a durability that allows them to operate effectively, even when exposed to water.

Can window AC be left outside?

Keeping the unit contained will help preserve its physical appearance. Before placing it in the box, wrap a plastic bag or garbage bag around the unit to further protect it. The unit should be stored indoors, and ideally in an attic or basement. Don't store a unit outside, as that further subjects it to the elements.

Can rain damage an AC compressor?

Does rain affect air conditioners? Normal rain should not affect your AC's operation. However, heavy rain can lead to problems if water accumulates around the unit or clogs drainage holes.

Can water damage an air conditioner?

Types of Water Damage to Expect

Air conditioner leaks can also cause damage to the AC system itself. Humid air can cause corrosion and rust, and this damage can lead to a mechanical breakdown and require the replacement of the entire air conditioning system.

How to seal window AC unit from rain?

Most window AC units come with foam tape designed for insulation. This weatherstrip tape, readily available online, is easy to use and adheres well to plastic surfaces. You can use foam tape to insulate the sides around your window AC and below the window.

What happens if rain gets in your AC?

Even though heavy rains cannot damage your AC unit, the winds accompanied by the same rain can leave dirt, leaves, twigs, and other debris to damage the condenser fan grille. Even objects falling on your unit, such as tree branches, from the storm can cause damage.

Why is my window AC blowing out black stuff?

Inefficient filters can lead to dirt and dust being circulated through the air ducts and eventually released into your home when the AC runs. If this is happening, replacing or cleaning the filter should do the trick.

Is it bad to leave AC in the window all year?

Do I need to remove my window air conditioner in the winter? We recommend removing your window AC before the first frost of the year to protect it from the elements. We suggest you stop using your window AC for cooling once the outdoor temperature reaches 62℉. Most window ACs can't operate in temperatures below 62℉.

How cold is too cold for window AC?

Air conditioners can't tolerate temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. In extreme cold, the AC's compressor can get overworked as it struggles to function. At best, it will need significant repairs; at worst it may completely fail.

What happens if you don't put an air conditioner in the window?

For example, the unit may not be able to cool the room effectively, leaving you feeling hot and uncomfortable. Additionally, inadequate ventilation can cause the air conditioner to overheat, which can damage the unit and shorten its lifespan.

Is it OK for a window AC unit to get rained on?

Have you ever wondered, “Will rain damage a window air conditioner?” The short answer is no. Much like central air units, window units are designed to withstand various weather conditions. However, there are specific factors to consider, especially since these smaller units are usually not maintained by professionals.

Is window AC waterproof?

While rain will not damage your air conditioner, deep standing water could. If there is more than about 15 inches of water, the moving parts and electrical components may not be able to operate. After the water recedes, it's best to call an HVAC contractor to check the unit before you restart it.

Is it safe to have window AC on during thunderstorms?

For starters, lightning can melt the plug to your unit. In addition, it can damage the control panel and corrupt the entire system. The control panel is filled with sensitive electrical circuitry, so it's best to turn it off when a storm hits.

Do you need to protect AC from rain?

Rain isn't something you necessarily have to worry about for your outdoor AC unit, particularly if it's just a drizzle or light rain. Your unit is composed of parts that are sealed and made from metals like aluminum and copper, which are not vulnerable to moisture.

What happens if you turn an air conditioner on its side?

When you lay your portable air conditioner on its side or tilt it at an angle, certain parts of the compressor are deprived of lubrication oil. This causes the compressor's components to collide, resulting in wear and tear.

On which mode should AC run in rainy season?

1. Right mode: Monsoons often come with high humidity in the air. In this condition, you must use Dry Mode (if available in your AC) to control it. Apart from this, there are several other modes such as Cool, Heat, and, Fan, which need to be used depending on the conditions in the room.

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