It doesn't mean that shading your HVAC system doesn't offer any advantages; it does. In addition to alleviating some of the heat from the outdoors, a shed or roof can protect the unit from impact damage caused by hailstones or windborne debris.
The $5,000 rule is a rule of thumb in the HVAC industry to help homeowners decide whether HVAC repair or HVAC replacement makes more sense in the long run. The $5,000 rule: Multiply the age of your equipment by the estimated repair cost. If the number is more than $5,000, then you should consider replacing your unit.
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.
As others have said here, you don't need to cover it. The only difference between winter and summer (when it comes to AC units) is temperature. Covering it in the winter will not keep the cold out of it. The unit will get wet in the summer and it will get just as wet in the winter.
Extend the Life of Your AC
Shading your unit helps protect it from heat, light, and moisture and can even help reduce your energy bill by allowing the unit to run less frequently. Plus, the dust and debris that can get into an unprotected outdoor AC unit can cause frequent breakdowns and increased wear and tear.
Find the best location for your AC unit
Operating in direct sunlight will force it to work harder. Instead, if you have a window in your room that has shade, install it there.
It doesn't mean that shading your HVAC system doesn't offer any advantages; it does. In addition to alleviating some of the heat from the outdoors, a shed or roof can protect the unit from impact damage caused by hailstones or windborne debris.
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. Be sure to have annual maintenance on your air conditioner each spring to ensure everything is still in working order before turning it on again for the cooling season.
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.
Air conditioners are built to withstand extreme weather
Your air conditioner's coils are also designed to handle extreme weather conditions. Since A/C units are made with first-rate materials and have a solid finish, it's usually not necessary to cover them when they're not in use.
Another option is to cover your AC unit with a specially-made cover to block the sun's rays. Usually made of UV-resistant material, these covers help shield your AC from sun damage. They also offer protection against a buildup of dirt, leaves, and other outside factors that could obstruct the unit.
It's important to be aware of how long air conditioners last, so you don't get the unwelcome surprise of a broken air conditioner in the peak of the summer heat. In general, air conditioners that are properly maintained can last 15 to 20 years.
Running the AC unit full-time in our big house example would cost $7.39 per day for the efficient unit, or about $222 per month. For the less efficient unit, you're looking at $10.56 per day or about $317 per month. Not only that, but running all day is hard on your air conditioner.
The New Regulations
Starting January 1, 2025, all new residential air conditioners and heat pumps must utilize A2L refrigerants. Older refrigerants like R-410, which are likely the refrigerant used by your current system, are being phased out.
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.
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. Covering the AC can also restrict airflow and hinder the unit's efficiency, potentially leading to performance issues and higher energy consumption.
The lubrication in your air conditioner may not be where it needs to be if it has been sitting on its side for an extended period. Allow it to cool and settle for a day or two before reusing it.
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.
WHAT IS THE BEST MODE FOR AC IN SUMMER? In summer, the best mode for your air conditioner is the "Cool" mode, set to a comfortable temperature around 78°F when you're home. This setting efficiently reduces indoor humidity and maintains a comfortable environment without overworking the AC system.
There is a reason to cover your air conditioner after the summer, and it's not just for the winter. As we said before, your unit is built to withstand the rain and snow, but it is not built to keep out leaves, seeds, or nuts. Therefore, you will want to cover your system during the fall only.
The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that sunlight shining on the condenser unit for even a few hours a day can increase your monthly cooling costs by more than 10%. It is important to note that this number is based on an average across the entire country.
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.
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.