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WHEN SHOULD I BE COVERING MY AIR CONDITIONER?

We get asked a lot of seasonal air conditioning questions at All Systems Mechanical. As you might imagine, the advice for air conditioning near Santa Clarita is a bit different from what you might expect up in Bozeman, Montana. We often get asked the question, “should you cover your air conditioner in the winter?” To be honest, the real answer depends on what part of the country you live in, but if you have read some of our posts, then you know that we are a small, U.S. Veteran-Owned heating and air conditioning company, and take pride in the fact that we don’t mince words. So, to avoid disappointment the answer to your question is, probably not. It probably is not necessary to cover your air conditioner in the winter, or during any other time of the year, for that matter. But for those who are not easily satisfied, this article will address the reasons why it is not necessary to cover your air conditioner in the winter, the few occasions in which it might be a good idea to drag out a cover, and how to cover your air conditioner if needed.

Why it is Not Important to Cover Your Air Conditioner in the Winter.

There are a couple of reasons that it is not that important to cover your air conditioner, even in the winter. The most important reason is that it is not really necessary. Here’s why: what you might not realize is that all outdoor HVAC equipment is made to withstand harsh weather conditions and varying temperature extremes. That is what they are made for, and is actually part of the reason that your air conditioner is so damned expensive.

All of the parts and materials used are designed to stand up to hot summers and harsh winters. There are some caveats to this, of course, and those will be addressed in the next section. It should suffice to say, that no major manufacturer that I know of (i.e. Carrier, Lennox, etc.) specifically recommends that you cover your air conditioner in the winter.

To verify, we went ahead and gave a few of the major air conditioning companies a call to see what their take was on whether or not you should cover your air conditioner in the winter. Upon calling their customer service departments, they also said that there was no specific instance in which they would recommend that you cover your AC unit for the winter. Think about it – you’d better believe that if covering your air conditioner in the winter was making a significant difference in the longevity of your air conditioning unit, then the major companies would not only recommend it, but they’d probably provide you with a cover as part of your purchase.

There are a couple of other reasons that it is not desirable to cover your air conditioning unit, many of which might not be that obvious to you:

1. Rodents Can Infest Covered Air Conditioners

Rodents and other animals seek shelter from harsh winters and will often start to inhabit a covered air conditioner. This can lead to secondary problems like chewed electrical wires and un-insulated Freon lines due to the rodents stripping them to make a nest.

2. Mold and Mildew Can Grow Inside, if You Cover Your Air Conditioner in the Winter.

Mold can accumulate in the spring months before the air conditioner is uncovered due to the increased moisture inside. Your air conditioner is made to be open to the air. Covering your air conditioner will block proper air flow which can lead to mold growth on your evaporator coils. While mold growing outside of your home is not detrimental to your health the way that it is inside of your house, it can block proper airflow through your coils and decrease your air conditioner’s efficiency. For more information, try: How Do You Prevent Mold?

3. Covering Your AC Doesn’t Prevent Moisture From Infiltrating Your AC Unit

Probably the biggest argument that can be made for why you should cover your air conditioner in the winter has to do with water. If water accumulates on your air conditioners external coils (called condenser coils) and then freezes, it runs the possibility of damaging your coils over time.

Although this is a valid argument, the problem is that covering your air conditioner doesn’t really solve this problem. Moisture will get in and accumulate either from humidity that is naturally in the air, or from wind blowing it in. As the water on the ground evaporates, it can also find it’s way in. The bottom line is that covering your air conditioner doesn’t do a very good job of keeping moisture out of your unit. It will find its way in eventually.

When Should You Cover Your Air Conditioner?

Cover Your Air Conditioner for Hail Storms

If you live in Santa Clarita, then it is not really necessary to cover your air conditioner – ever. But for those of you who are up north, it might be worthwhile to cover your air conditioner under some circumstances. For instance, it is not uncommon in the midwest to encounter hail. Although it is not possible to predict, if you know that a large convective storm is coming, give some though to covering your air conditioner before the thunderstorm gets there (key word being before, not during the storm – stay inside).

Cover Your Air Conditioner for Blizzards

The same advice should be used for those that live up in the north – if you know that a blizzard is headed your way, then take a few minutes to cover your air conditioner. Keeping the excess snow out of your air conditioner can help quite a bit, specifically if the temperature warms up to above freezing temperatures during the day, then drops below freezing at night. If the snow accumulates inside of your air conditioner, then melts and refreezes, you are essentially making a mini glacier inside of your air conditioner which can damage your coils. Cover your air conditioner before a blizzard, and uncover it right after. Take a few moments to remove the snow right around the outside of your unit and it will pay dividends in the long run.

As a general rule of thumb, I’d offer the following advice: imagine your old diesel truck – if the weather is bad enough that you would worry about your old diesel, then it’s time to cover your air conditioner. If your diesel could handle it, then you’re AC is all set.

How Do You Cover Your Air Conditioner?

Like we discussed above, unless you live in extreme weather, it isn’t really important that you take the time to cover your air conditioner in the winter. However, if you do, there are a couple of ways to do it.

The first way is to use a large tarp and wrap your air conditioner using rope and duct tape. This, as you might imagine, can take 15 minutes each time that you do it. It’s not worth it. The second way, is to go online and buy an air conditioner cover. They are relatively cheap, and range from around $25 to $35. If you are going to go to the trouble of covering your air conditioner in the winter, then you might as well do it right.

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Madawaska
Madawaska
17:56 19 Apr 24
Very skilled, knowledgeable, personable service with this team.My fireplace was assessed, needed parts, and works like new now.The office communicates very well on timing of appointments.I will... recommend them to my friends and family.read more
Robin Barrientez
Robin Barrientez
18:43 18 Mar 24
Great customer service. From sales to technicians, everyone was friendly and quick to respond. They provided us with proper documentation, and installation was quick. We purchased a heat pump and A/C... this time around but also purchased an A/C years back and had no issues. Definitely recommend!read more
Jesse T
Jesse T
21:00 10 Mar 24
Thank you to Jill and the two techs that serviced our fireplace. Great work and service.
Dave Storey
Dave Storey
18:49 29 Feb 24
Excellent service from Sam today. We had a few issues with our humidifier connected to our furnace and also our HRV system, and Sam easily corrected them and also explained very well how things work... and need to be maintained. Very happy now!read more
Chantelle Petrie
Chantelle Petrie
14:50 17 Feb 24
Quick response, friendly customer service and technician. The technician found the problem and replaced the part to get our furnace back up and running fast! Thank you so much!
Eduardo P
Eduardo P
21:47 25 Jan 24
Experiencing heater malfunctions in the beginning of January is never ideal, specially with 2 lil'Ones. Luckily the Tech on call was Colin. He was Patient, Knowledgeable and quick to answer the... call. As a Family of 4 humans & 1Pup we give Colin 👍x4 & 🐶x1.Thank You.read more
Ang Seguin
Ang Seguin
23:57 06 Jan 24
Amazing service from Steve To!Came home to a freezing cold house and found my furnace not working. After making a call, Steve was here in less than an hour and within 30 min my furnace was running!... Thank you!Highly recommend!read more
Kathy Rochon
Kathy Rochon
22:10 20 Dec 23
The Technician was very professional and explained what needed to be done to keep the humidifier running efficiently.
Bev Catherwood
Bev Catherwood
20:19 13 Dec 23
Harding installed a new furnace and heat pump. The technicians were very professional and did a great job working with a complex wiring system. We would highly recommend Harding.
Joel Ebeye
Joel Ebeye
14:18 12 Dec 23
Very fast and efficient. Removed old furnace and Installed a brand new Furnace within hours and under a month of quote approval. By far the best pricing compared to other HVAC companies.
Ralph Rajaballey
Ralph Rajaballey
20:09 11 Dec 23
Prompt response when my furnace died. Repair technician assessed my furnace and we determined I needed a new one. Sale person was able to come the same day. Install was booked a few days later and... they offered some portable heaters since we had no heat. Installer were on time and everything was done in a few hours.read more
Lee Carlson
Lee Carlson
18:40 11 Dec 23
We've been supported by Team Harding for over 20 years. Great products, great service and wonderful people. Dependable, conscientious and thorough. I believe it's because of a "customer comes... first" attitude amongst the people at Harding. Cheersread more
Laith Hajsaid
Laith Hajsaid
18:19 11 Dec 23
Great company to deal with!
Judy, Gord Richardson
Judy, Gord Richardson
14:10 09 Dec 23
Team Harding provided quick and efficient service with a leaking water tank a week before going holiday. .
Atul Srivastava
Atul Srivastava
22:42 07 Dec 23
Very good service. Explained everything very well.
Louise Schryburt
Louise Schryburt
21:23 05 Dec 23
Very good experience! John is very knowledgeable and efficient.
Mike M
Mike M
18:51 03 Dec 23
I am very happy with my purchase and the fireplace installation. My wife and I have used it multiple times since it was installed and it works exactly as advertised. It turned a cold room in to a... comfy room that we thoroughly enjoy.My wife and I were leaning towards purchasing a fireplace with high BTU output and a fan. The team at Harding pushed back, and said we would be too hot. I appreciate their honesty. Consider they gave up a bigger sale.The installers (James + Adam) were thorough, neat and patient answering our many questions. I told them that my former wood fireplace had an ice-cold hearth. I asked them why, and they showed me that the original fireplace was not assembled correctly; it allowed cold air to come down around the fireplace, especially the hearth. It was awful. I really appreciated how they sealed the leak and added insulation. The problem was eliminated.The finishing team (Brandon and colleague) were also meticulous. They did not rush the job. I was out of town during the finishing and they suggested WhatsApp video calls, which worked very well and allayed my concerns.I would especially like to acknowledge Kirsten Neumarker. She is the project coordinator at Harding who schedules resources to install and finish fireplaces. She is very organized and is an excellent communicator. She reached out to me proactively and worked hard to accommodate my schedule also. She would often answer my emails and phone calls in minutes. I find this uncommon among contractors. She made a difference.Overall, a positive experience and I recommend them without reservations.Oh, and check out the photo attached of the finished product. We love it!Mikeread more
Layi Ibrahim
Layi Ibrahim
13:57 01 Dec 23
Team Harding is reliable, trustworthy, and professional. I would recommend their services to anyone.
Lisa Leblanc
Lisa Leblanc
12:57 30 Nov 23
We have used Harding repeatedly over the past few years. First when replacing our furnace/AC unit, and most recently when moving duct work before a basement renovation, and now a new gas fireplace!... Team Harding is conscientious, professional, with attention to detail and quick turnaround. I could not recommend them more!read more
Janyee Lau
Janyee Lau
21:04 29 Nov 23
We had a great experience with Harding! They came to do a complimentary walk-through with us when we moved into our new build and walked us through everything we needed to know for HRV, etc. We also... hired them to install a humidifier -- the team was very professional, and responded to emails/calls very quickly. The were able to schedule us in asap for the install before winter hit! They showed up on-time for the installation and all went well! Definitely recommend.read more
Tyler Williams
Tyler Williams
15:14 28 Nov 23
We had Luc and Dylan from Team Harding to our house to relocate a gas line for our kitchen range. The mechanics showed up on time and were very nice and friendly during the whole appointment. Not... once did I get the feel it was a 'get in - get out' job for them and that makes any service appointment much more pleasant!read more
Frederick Burt
Frederick Burt
19:37 26 Nov 23
Great service! Great crew. Fast install and attention to detail.
Gina Oliver
Gina Oliver
15:23 26 Nov 23
Team Harding has been responsive, reliable, and professional! Each interaction with them as been amazing.
Yong Wang
Yong Wang
00:29 25 Nov 23
I've been using services a few times from Harding for more than 10 years. Their technicians are always professional and polite. The whole process of calling until service is done has always been... smooth. It's just peace of mind with Harding.read more
Michael Gregory
Michael Gregory
18:50 24 Nov 23
The installation of our AC went well and appreciate the coordination and efficiency of the entire crew.
SA
SA
20:36 19 Jul 23
We have used them for warranty work on our new home build and have been happy with the after care service provided by Lindsay and Bob.
yuan zhang
yuan zhang
16:30 06 Feb 23
I changed the rate because the reaction from site office is extremely satisfy. I have no heat during the weekend and complained. I got a respond very quickly from their site office and find out the... reason of no respond. Then a new appoint was scheduled right way! Also a report has been filed towards this issue and I believe communication will be taken to improve future services. I really like this manner! Thank you.//I have no heat on the coldest day this winter. I called for service at 10:28am, and the office lady said someone will reach me ASAP. I called at 17:26pm again because NO ONE called me the whole day. And I was told there is a long list so THEY DON'T CARE! I HAVE TO WAIT! And this is a same problem happened second time in two years. Do not recommend.read more
Syd Curry
Syd Curry
12:04 01 Feb 23
Very professional, clean install. High quality product.Extremely pleased with overall experience. Highly recommend.
david whelehan
david whelehan
21:24 28 Jan 23
I had an extremely positive experience with Team Harding from beginning to end. I had them install a Sterling Model GG 45,000 BTU Natural Gas Garage Heater with a Nest Learning Thermostat in my... double garage (Man-Cave).The sales rep, Brian was professional, friendly, he wasn’t pushy at all and he came under budget. Kirsten constantly kept me up to date on the installer’s scheduling and was a true professional. The installers came on time, did a tremendous job with the installation and they even cleaned up afterwards. Absolute Rock Stars!Again, thank you so very much to everyone that worked on this project for me.I highly recommend using Team Harding for your home projects.read more
Dipesh Chhabra
Dipesh Chhabra
18:30 06 Jan 23
Great experience, technician Steve was very knowledgeable, Thankyou
Tina Thompson
Tina Thompson
21:07 30 Oct 22
We had issues with our air conditioner in the summer.Colin was diligent to determine the issue and get it fixed.Great job!
Brittney Rush
Brittney Rush
18:45 21 Oct 22
Friendly staff & efficient service!
Natasha Wright
Natasha Wright
17:16 21 Oct 22
Harding is an exceptional company that has always been there for all my HVAC needs.
Don Cumming
Don Cumming
20:10 14 Oct 22
I had a Daikin furnace installed by Harding Heating and Air Conditioning on Sept 9/22.I was totally impressed by the competence, knowledge and professionalism displayed by the Sales Rep Brian... Chartier, the Sales Support Specialist Kirsten Neumarker and the Installers Dan and Luc.I have no reservation in recommending this Company to anyone looking for a Furnace or Air Conditioner.read more
Jurgen Neumarker
Jurgen Neumarker
19:03 14 Oct 22
Harding was best decision we have ever made regarding our heating and A/C service. After switching from another company, we have not looked back. Service is reliable, punctual, professional and... friendly.read more
Charlene Van Hofwegen
Charlene Van Hofwegen
00:11 24 Aug 22
Thank you for a huge job very well done ! Marc went above and beyond to find the problem and remedy the situation.Natasha, thank you for scheduling us in quickly and a big thanks to Marc who worked... tirelessly to get the job completed.read more
Eric Lavoie
Eric Lavoie
13:48 25 Jul 22
I purchased a new home that Harding mechanical install the full system, the first week I took possession an advisor came over to explain the system in details, I have never had 1 issue with this... equipment and installation. In the past 5 years, I have hired Harding mehcanial for my annual maintenance and filter replacement, I just pick up the phone and talk to a live person and get quick answer. I have never met an HVAC company that operates this way, very efficient. Thank you for the amazing service and I will keep on referring family and friends to your company.read more
Georgie Lavoie
Georgie Lavoie
01:28 22 Jul 22
This company installed a new air conditioner at my house and came over quickly and made sure I was satisfied, they called me the following day to make sure I understood everything and that my unit... was working at full capacity.I highly recommend this company, great technician and service from front office to install crew. Thanks and unit working fine especially during this heat wave.read more
Shawn Ku
Shawn Ku
00:57 24 Jun 22
Harding Heating & Air Conditioning were excellent. We had an issue with our furnace fan and I spoke to Natasha Wright (Service Coordinator) who first tried to troubleshoot the problem with me to... save costs, etc. Once that didn't work, a technician, Marc Gagon, attended. He quickly diagnosed the problem (faulty control board), but didn't stop there. He investigated the source - water under the AC coils. Further, he went outside to ensure the A/C unit was working properly. Marc Gagon is very professional, competent and took the time to explain things. He is a asset to Harding Heating & Air Conditioning, along with Natasha Wright. I highly recommend this company for your heating and a/c needs. Shawnread more
Tim C.
Tim C.
21:43 29 Jan 22
Brenden from Harding came and fixed the furnace by replacing the blower. He did a great job. And also well explained the membership plan. 10 out of 10.
Pam Burwash
Pam Burwash
18:14 16 Jul 21
From the very start the quotes I received were very fair. The estimator took the time assess the work that would need to be done and walked me through all the options. My furnace and AC were... installed by a polite, professional crew who also took the time to ensure that I was satisfied with the equipment being installed.Team Harding was there for me during a heat wave. I am thoroughly impressed with their professionalism.read more
Galina Khavrenko
Galina Khavrenko
15:17 15 Jul 21
Got Harding H&AC to deliver and install 2 AC units.Everything was fast, affordable and their customer service is 24/7 for you.
Tim Cinnamon
Tim Cinnamon
18:28 30 Jun 21
We had Brodie and Marc out to our cottage to install a heat pump and they did a fantastic job. Professional, very efficient, clean and knowledgeable. We would definitely use them again in the future.
Lifebeyondpanicattacks
Lifebeyondpanicattacks
04:02 29 Jun 21
Lindsay is a gem, she saved us money and time in this heat wave by fixing our problem over the phone. She went above and beyond her job with her kindness and expertise. We've used Harding multiple... times and have always had the best results! And awesome company with wonderful employees, especially Lindsay!!!read more
Wayne Calvert
Wayne Calvert
19:10 05 Feb 21
Woke up this morning with no heat in the house. Within a couple of hours a Harding service technician was at the door and was able to replace the blower unit in less than 20 minute restoring heat to... my home. Just want to state that the service was great and the staff were professional and friendly.I'm glad I've been with Harding for the past 8 years,...here's to many more.Great job!read more
Amanda
Amanda
20:24 20 Jan 21
Excellent customer service and friendly staff!
Vince Petrella
Vince Petrella
20:59 09 Nov 20
Provided a great and honest service at a reasonable price. I would use their services again in the future.
Gerry Moore
Gerry Moore
13:33 30 Oct 20
Harding Heating and Air Conditioning installed our Furnace and Air Conditioning when we purchased or new home in 2011. We have enjoyed excellent service from them for the last 9 years. We would not... hesitate in using their company again in the future.read more
Sketchyinkblot
Sketchyinkblot
22:02 03 Oct 20
We’ve used Harding for 6+ years and they always exceed our expectations. Friendly staff, knowledgeable technicians and reasonable prices. We couldn’t ask for better. They installed the ac unit at our... first house and anytime we needed them the service calls were great. We bought a new house July 2019. It wasn’t long after that we were told we needed a new furnace and ac. We went withHarding...obviously.read more
Paul
Paul
21:59 15 Aug 20
Fair price, good follow up. Appreciated!
Lisa Pow
Lisa Pow
14:49 29 May 20
Brendon was great
Tyler Lagasse
Tyler Lagasse
23:51 24 May 20
Showed up on time, and on a sunday! Very impressed with this company!
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