As the sweltering summer heat starts to fade and the relief of fall starts to settle in, residents of Rockford start preparing their homes and yards for the wintertime. For many, that leads to the question of whether they need to cover their outside AC for the winter.

While it may seem like a smart idea, the truth is there are a number of reasons why you shouldn’t cover your AC unit in the winter. Along with not being necessary, covering your outdoor air conditioning equipment can actually cause problems.

Here, the experts at Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling share five reasons why covering your air conditioning equipment doesn’t need to be on your fall to-do list and what you should do instead.

1. Your AC can Handle Snow

Outdoor AC units are supposed to withstand harsh weather conditions like snow in the winter. These machines are built with solid materials and components that can handle the outdoor elements without damage. The coils and fins of the unit are engineered to resist corrosion, and the housing is designed to protect the internal components from moisture and debris.

2. Covering AC Systems can Encourage Mold

One of the reasons you should not cover your outdoor air conditioning equipment in the winter is because doing so can trap moisture—which is definitely not what you want in your outdoor unit. That’s because sealing moisture inside the unit creates the perfect conditions for mold and mildew to thrive.

Mold and mildew not only have an unpleasant aroma, but they can also create health risks, especially for people with respiratory issues or allergies. Plus, the excess moisture can corrode the internal components of the AC unit.

As an alternative to covering the unit, instead ensure proper drainage and keep the area around the unit clean of debris, allowing for efficient airflow and preventing moisture buildup.

3. Covered AC Systems Can Attract Animals

You and your family aren’t the only ones who prepare for winter. Animals that live around your home are also searching for a warm, cozy place to live for the cold months. For many creatures, a covered air conditioner is an ideal winter home.

Birds, mice, chipmunks and even rats often make nests inside covered air conditioners. Animals dwelling in a covered AC unit can cause many problems. Rats can chew through wires, insulation and other components, causing damage that may require expensive repairs. Debris animals bring into the AC to create a warm and comfortable nest can impair airflow and ventilation, lowering the efficiency of the appliance and potentially causing it to overheat. Additionally, animal droppings can result in unsanitary conditions and potent odors.

Leaving your air conditioner uncovered helps dissuade wildlife, because an uncovered AC gives them less shelter from chilly temperatures than a covered unit. That’s better for your cooling system—and leaves you with less mess to throw away and things to repair when winter is over.

4. Covering Your Air Conditioner Restricts Airflow

Another reason not to cover your air conditioner in the winter is because a cover blocks airflow through the unit. Adequate airflow is crucial for the AC system because it helps with heat exchange and enables the unit to cool properly. When airflow is reduced, the system has to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, leading to greater energy consumption and strain on the components.

In addition, if you run your AC without noticing that the outside unit is covered or because you simply forgot, it could result in a range of problems. One issue is that the shortage of correct airflow could cause the compressor to overheat, causing its failure or damage.  That’s why it is essential to ensure the outdoor unit is always cleared of any barriers and is not covered to maintain optimal airflow.

5. AC Maintenance Is More Effective Than Covering Your Air Conditioner

The bottom line is, it’s a whole lot more effective to do a little maintenance for your air conditioner than to cover your outside AC unit.

There are several key maintenance activities you should prioritize to ensure the best possible operation and longevity of your AC unit. First, it’s wise to examine your outdoor AC unit regularly and clear any debris such as leaves, twigs and dirt to allow proper airflow. Second, check and clean the coils, fins and filters to make sure you don’t see any dirt and dust buildup that would impede effective heat exchange or airflow.

Regular air conditioning maintenance not only enhances efficiency, but it also helps extend the unit’s life span, reduces energy consumption and protects against costly repairs. Rather than using a cover, committing time and effort into routine air conditioning maintenance is a proactive strategy that can greatly benefit your entire HVAC system in the long run.