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Should you cover your air conditioner in the winter?

Writer Caleb Butler

Outdoor cooling units are built to withstand harsh winter weather, so they don’t require a cover. Moisture (water) can cause an air conditioner’s condenser coils to freeze, causing damage over time. It is, however, impossible to keep moisture out 100% of the time.

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How can I keep my air conditioner in good working order during the winter?

Only cover the top of the unit with plywood to protect it from snow and ice, and weight it down with bricks or rocks to keep it in place. Attach a wooden awning or shelter to the building to cover the top of the unit. Plant shrubs around the unit to shield it from wind and snow.

What happens if you don’t cover your air conditioner during the winter?

Covering your air conditioner will prevent proper air flow, resulting in mold growth on your evaporator coils. Mold can obstruct proper airflow through your coils, reducing the efficiency of your air conditioner.

Why should your air conditioner not be covered?

AC covers lack proper ventilation, allowing moisture to become trapped within the AC unit. Heavy moisture buildup can also cause AC components to freeze solid in freezing temperatures, which can cause serious damage if the components freeze and thaw repeatedly.

In the winter, how do I cover my AC vents?

You can make small covers out of fabric and a plastic sheet if you are certain you only want to cover your wall-unit air conditioner vents for the winter. Purchase a piece of fabric that is slightly larger than the vents to be covered. Adhere the fabric to the plastic sheet with fabric adhesive.

In the winter, what temperature should the air conditioner be set to?

Setting your thermostat to 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius) when you’re at home is the ideal balance of comfort and energy efficiency, according to ENERGY STAR.

Can you leave the air conditioner in the window during the winter?

We recommend that you remove any air conditioners that are installed in a window. During the winter, heat may escape through the accordion extension panels on the A/C and the chassis, while cold air may enter your home in the same manner.