Reasons Not to Cover an Air Conditioner in Nanaimo

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For more than 45 years, Norm’s Mobile Service Ltd. has been a family owned and operated business serving Nanaimo’s gas fitting, heating, air conditioning and plumbing needs. Our team of certified, licensed journeymen can offer a same day response to both commercial and residential customers at competitive rates. During that time we’ve been asked a lot of questions like, should I cover my air conditioning unit during the winter months? Fortunately, we’ve picked up a few hints and tips along the way that can help you, our neighbor, find the answers to your questions.

The short answer is predominantly no, with the occasional maybe, depending on the weather. Let me explain.

The most important reason is that it is not really necessary. All outdoor heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment is made to withstand harsh weather conditions and varying temperature extremes. It’s what they are made for and part of the reasoning behind their cost – all of the parts and materials used are designed to stand up to hot summers and harsh winters. You can also add the fact that no major manufacturer specifically recommends that you cover your air conditioner in the winter.

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:

  • Rodents can infest covered air conditioners leading to secondary problems like chewed electrical wires and un-insulated Freon lines due to the rodents stripping them to make a nest.
  • Mold and mildew can grow inside your air conditioner in the winter, blocking proper airflow through your coils, which will also decrease your air conditioner’s efficiency.
  • Covering your A/C unit doesn’t prevent moisture from infiltrating your unit from humidity, condensation, and ground moisture.

While covering your air conditioning unit in winter is generally unnecessary, it may be necessary in some extreme weather conditions like hail or during a blizzard in order to keep excess snow from accumulating inside of your air conditioner. You may also want to take a few moments and do some occasional maintenance by removing the snow right around the outside of your unit after each snowfall – it will pay dividends in the long run.

While covering your air conditioner in winter is unnecessary, regular maintenance is a necessity to keep your unit working properly for years to come. This is also a great time to book your spring maintenance to ensure your air conditioning unit is in working order before temperatures rise.

If you want to save both energy and money while you cool your space, count on Norm’s Mobile Service Ltd. in Nanaimo to deliver a product that does just that. At Norm’s Mobile Service Ltd., we have the equipment and expertise to install, service, and repair air conditioning for residential and commercial clients in Nanaimo. Contact Norm’s Mobile Service Ltd. at 250-753-3641 for a free phone consultation and to set up an appointment for air conditioning in Nanaimo today.