Should You Cover Your Air Conditioner During Fall and Winter?

Seasonal Air Conditioner Care

As the temperatures start to drop and leaves begin to fall, many homeowners wonder whether they should cover their outdoor air conditioning unit for the winter. It’s a fair question. After all, you want to protect your investment and keep it running efficiently for years to come. However, covering your A/C isn’t always necessary, and in some cases, it can do more harm than good.

At Charlotte Comfort Systems, we’re here to clear up the confusion and help you make the right choice for your home comfort system.

Do You Need to Cover Your Air Conditioner?

In most cases, you don’t need to fully cover your outdoor A/C unit during the fall or winter months. Modern condenser units are built to withstand harsh weather, including rain, snow, and cold temperatures. The key components are made from durable materials like aluminum, copper, and steel, all designed to resist rust and corrosion.

However, there are a few reasons you might consider partial protection:

• Falling leaves, twigs, or debris can collect inside the unit and restrict airflow.
• Icicles or melting snow from the roof could drip into the unit, causing buildup or minor damage.
• Dust and pollen accumulation during long off-seasons can increase maintenance needs in spring.

How to Cover it Safely

If you decide to cover your air conditioner, make sure you do it correctly to avoid trapping moisture inside the unit.

Here’s how to cover it the right way:

• 1
  Use a breathable, weather-resistant cover, not a plastic tarp. Plastic traps condensation, which can lead to mold, mildew, or rust.
• 2
  Cover only the top of the unit. Leave the sides exposed so air can circulate. This prevents moisture buildup and keeps small critters from nesting.
• 3
  Secure it snugly as wind can blow off loose covers or cause them to flap against the unit, leading to scratches or dents.

If a cover is deemed necessary, we recommend using a custom-made mesh or fabric A/C top cover for ideal protection and airflow.

When to Remove the Cover

Remove your cover as soon as spring temperatures begin to rise which typically starts by March or early April in the Carolinas. Leaving it covered too long can trap heat and humidity, encouraging rust or electrical issues when the system is restarted.

Before turning on your A/C for the first time:

• Clear away any leaves or debris around the unit.
• Inspect the coils and fins for dirt or damage.
• Schedule a spring tune-up with one of our certified technicians to ensure your system runs efficiently.

The Bottom Line

You don’t need to fully cover your air conditioner for winter, but a partial, breathable top cover can help keep debris out and extend the life of your unit. Most importantly, don’t forget seasonal maintenance as it’s the best way to protect your comfort year-round.

If you have questions about caring for your HVAC system or need professional service before winter sets in, contact Charlotte Comfort Systems today. We’re here to help you stay comfortable through every season.