Covering an A/C unit outside your home can be done several ways. Use real or artificial plants to block the view. Or create a custom enclosure using fencing, a garden trellis or wood pallets. Ready to improve the appeal of your backyard from any viewing angle?
Covering your AC unit is not recommended. AC units are designed to withstand outdoor conditions and are built to be durable and weather-resistant. Covering the unit can trap moisture inside, which doesn't allow for proper ventilation.
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.
you should never enclose a HP or A/C system. Neither on the sides or top. even the air gap you speak of is not good for the unit or your utility bills.
You can build a cabinet around it, use a folding screen or an enclosure for the indoor unit. For the outdoor unit, you have more options such as using a plant wall, concealing it behind shrubs or opting for a shutter screen or a wrought iron case.
Covering an A/C unit outside your home can be done several ways. Use real or artificial plants to block the view. Or create a custom enclosure using fencing, a garden trellis or wood pallets. Ready to improve the appeal of your backyard from any viewing angle?
The general rule is to provide at least one foot of space on all sides of the unit, or more if you have the space. Check your owner's manual or your HVAC contractor for specific clearance instructions since your unit may require more space.
Never cover them with plastic, as it will trap moisture and contribute to mold growth when the product is not in use. Wall-mounted units, which are more difficult to remove during the fall and winter, can also be covered with a breathable fabric that will help alleviate drafts without collecting moisture.
Block Off the Vent: You can block the vent by placing a piece of furniture at the opening or purchasing a magnetic damper that's strong enough to stick to the steel on the wall or ceiling. Plastic sheeting can be placed over the opening as well. You can also install a vent grille filter.
How Much Clearance Does HVAC Need? Make sure your HVAC unit has at least one foot of clearance around it, with two to three feet of space being better. This recommended spacing includes the distance between the HVAC unit and other structures like fences, buildings, shrubs, masonry, etc.
It's best to consult with your owner's manual, as recommendations may vary from model to model. To ensure optimal airflow, most units require one to three feet of space on each side of the unit. If your enclosure includes a roof, allow four to six feet of clearance from the top of the unit.
Your home insurance will cover the cost to repair or replace your home's air conditioner or HVAC system if it's damaged by weather-related events like: Hail. Wind. Lightning strikes.
A blocked air vent can permit mold or mildew to develop in and around your vents and ductwork if you reside in a humid location. You can be wasting money on utility costs. You most likely thought covering your air vents would certainly save you energy, but it does the opposite.
Without an AC cover, fall debris like leaves, twigs, and dirt can collect inside your unit. While these may seem harmless, over time, they block airflow and cause internal damage. Debris buildup can lead to inefficient performance and costly repairs when it's time to turn the unit back on in spring.
The best way to prevent damage from snow and ice build-up is to keep the space around your unit clear. After a large snowstorm, or during if you are expecting feet of snow, you can clear a space that is at least 18 inches all around the unit. In addition, keep the top and sides of the unit uncovered.
When covering an AC unit, it is essential that you only cover the top part of it to prevent snow, ice and debris from getting inside. Covering it with plastic or a tarp is perfectly fine. However, you don't want to let the plastic hang down more than 6 inches or so over the side of the unit.
Covering a floor vent with your bed can create a dangerous fire risk. This seemingly harmless act can lead to serious bedroom fire safety issues.
The best option for covering air vents during construction would be plastic drop cloths. You can lay them over the vents or use painter's tape to secure them, but be sure not to run the system while the vents are sealed. You can also use standard canvas drop cloths, although these may not catch all of the dust.
CONCLUSION. Covering your air conditioner, especially with a full-length cover, leads to issues of mold, rust, and other problems. Your unit is made to withstand the snow and a cover is not needed for protection. It is recommended to only cover your AC during the fall months.
Should I Cover My AC Unit During Summer? You should never cover your outdoor air conditioning unit during the summer when it's in peak use. While some think this will help protect the unit or lead to energy savings, it will do neither.
Protect your air conditioner with an AC Indoor Unit Cover during the off-season or when you are away for an extended period. This dustproof cover ensures that your AC remains clean and free from dirt buildup, which can reduce its efficiency and lifespan.
Building A Deck Over An Air Conditioner
Most AC manufacturers recommend maintaining a minimum 60" uninterrupted clearance above the compressor to allow for hot air to exhaust from the top of the unit. Without proper air flow, your AC unit can overheat and break down.
Space Guidelines for Air Conditioners
1-foot minimum on all sides, including behind the unit. 1.5-foot minimum for the sides and an alcove or adjacent wall. 2 feet between the sides of the unit and dense shrubs or solid fences. 6 inches between the sides and leafy plants, with a few extra inches left for growth.
Using AC covers to cover your air conditioner for the winter months can offer some additional protection against falling branches and other tree debris that could damage the unit, but generally, the exterior cabinet is strong enough to block even heavy limbs and other debris from impacting the inner components.