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.
If you're considering covering your outside AC unit in the summer, whether to protect it from bad weather or to possibly save energy, the reality is that you should never cover your AC unit – not even during bad weather. For one thing, outdoor AC units are specifically designed to live outdoors.
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. It can also provide a shelter for pests, like rodents, which may damage the unit.
AC covers cause damage over time to many of the components of an outdoor air conditioning unit. Covers heavily reduce the airflow, forcing the mechanisms to work harder, which may overheat the compressor or freeze the condenser coils.
Direct sunlight can have a profound impact on the performance and efficiency of your AC unit, leading to higher energy bills, accelerated wear and tear, and even potential breakdowns.
A simple, breathable cover can be constructed using just plywood. Cut a sheet of plywood to fit the top of the AC unit only. Secure the plywood to the top of the unit for the cold winter months and remove it before summer comes and you need to run the air conditioning system again.
To protect the unit from direct sunlight, you can add an extra layer of shade with tarps. Sun shades and awnings also work well as a barrier against other outdoor hazards like snow, rain, and debris. They serve as a barrier, keeping out leaves, branches, and other materials that might damage the appliance.
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.
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.
Keep it away from trees and dirty areas
Although shading is necessary, placing it near trees or driveway can attract leaves and dirt inside the unit. Water is a big no no as well so if there is an area where rain tends to pool, mount the unit in a elevated position.
Protection from Elements: A patio cover can protect the AC unit from harsh weather conditions, such as direct sunlight, rain, and snow. This can help extend the unit's lifespan and maintain its efficiency .
Plastic or vinyl covers impede air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of clot is one that's breathable, like canvas or mesh.
An outside air conditioner unit cover is available commercially. If you do not have a ready-made vinyl or plastic cover, a piece of plywood will also do. It will protect the air conditioner from falling ice, keep debris and leaves away, and, at the same time, allow the unit to breathe.
After all, one thing we were all taught when we were very young is that water and electrical appliances don't mix. So how do you clean your outside AC unit? The good news is that you absolutely can spray water on your air conditioner if it needs a cleaning, and nothing bad will happen.
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. The exterior case of the unit will not break down or malfunction in any way when covered in the pouring rain.
Installing the outdoor unit in a safe, dry and well-ventilated area is advised. Making sure your outdoor unit is clear of trees or a dusty area (like a driveway) can further help you keep your air conditioner's filters clean and less likely to get dirty or blocked.
The biggest disadvantage to covering your air conditioner is that it often leads to moisture getting trapped in the unit. Trapped moisture is the enemy. Water build-up can lead to a number of problems, including the following: Rust and corrosion.
Shield your HVAC system from water and debris by covering it with a tarp that can withstand strong winds. Buy and use a specially designed cover or place a metal or plywood cage around the outdoor air conditioner unit to protect it from flying debris if strong winds occur.
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.
Plant at least two or three trees on the side of your house where your AC is located. For example, a six- to the eight-foot-tall deciduous tree will provide shade for your unit within a year of planting it. Plant a series of low-growing bushes and shrubs around the condenser, but not too close.
The compressor is located in your AC's outdoor unit and when this unit is covered in grime/dirt/leaves, the compressor can't work properly, which forces the AC to run longer and harder. Eventually, the compressor overworks itself and the AC overheats.
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.