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It depends. Covering your outside AC unit can provide some benefits like protecting it from weather damage, reducing energy costs, and blocking debris. However, it also comes with drawbacks like potentially blocking airflow and retaining heat. Proper materials and installation are key to maximizing benefits while minimizing risks. Professional advice is recommended before deciding to cover an AC unit.
Air conditioners provide welcome relief from heat during the summer months. The iconic outdoor condenser unit is a key component in any AC system. This metal box houses important parts like the compressor, condenser coils, and fan.
With the condenser placed outside, many homeowners wonder if they should cover the unit. Reasons for doing so may include protecting it from weather damage, improving efficiency, and aesthetics. However, there are also arguments against covering AC units.
So should you cover your outside air conditioner or not? There are pros and cons to consider when making this decision. Taking the time to weigh these factors allows you to make an informed choice. Your climate, unit type, materials, and installation technique all play a role.
Benefits of Covering an AC Unit
Covering your outside AC condenser comes with some potential benefits:
Weather Protection
Air conditioner condenser units placed outside are exposed to the elements year-round. This includes sun, rain, wind, pollen, hail, and more. Constant exposure can wear down the exterior of the unit over time. Covers block contact with these weather conditions.
For example, sunlight and UV rays can fade and degrade plastic components. Excessive moisture from rain or sprinklers could lead to rust and corrosion. High winds carrying debris could dent fins on the condenser coil. A properly fitted cover reduces this type of damage.
Energy Efficiency
Direct sun exposure heats the condenser unit. This warmth must then be shed before the refrigerant gas can cool down again. Running a pre-heated system uses extra electricity. Tests estimate covers can improve cooling efficiency by up to 10% under certain conditions.
The material used for the cover plays a big role here. Reflective surfaces better deflect solar radiation. Perforated covers allow airflow while still providing shade. Placing the unit in full shade also minimizes solar heat gain.
Debris Protection
Outdoor condenser coils quickly become clogged with leaves, seeds, dust, and other debris. Built up gunk obstructs airflow and reduces cooling capacity. It can also lead to frozen evaporator coils and compressor failure over time.
Condenser covers add a protective barrier against falling debris. Screens integrated into the cover material further filter particulates. This helps maintain free airflow through the coil. Less debris means better efficiency and longevity.
Noise Reduction
The fan, compressor, and refrigerant flow in AC units generate noise when running. Condenser covers muffle these operating sounds. The noise blocking effect varies based on material. Flexible vinyl or canvas provides minimal sound insulation. Rigid covers made from insulation board reduce decibel levels more significantly.
Aesthetics
For some homeowners, the look of a metal condenser is an eyesore. It can also detract from landscaping if placed in a visible spot. Covers let you blend the unit in with surroundings. Vinyl wraps give a neutral solid color. Artistic wraps completely disguise the equipment. Just take care not to fully enclose the unit.
Winter Protection
Cold winter temps aren???t necessarily bad for AC units. However, covering provides an extra degree of protection. It prevents snow or ice buildup on controls and wires. The shelter also reduces corrosion from salt and road treatment chemicals. Just avoid fully sealing the unit since air exchange is still needed.
DIY Installation
Installing covers over window and wall AC units is quite simple. Larger central air condenser covers also assemble quickly with basic tools. No professional is needed. Just be sure to leave access panels for servicing needs. Taking on the project yourself means saving on labor costs.
Disadvantages of AC Unit Covers
Despite the benefits above, using AC covers also comes with some downsides:
Potential Overheating
The cover itself absorbs heat from sunlight. This radiant energy can then get trapped rather than dissipating into the open air. Heat exhaust from the condenser also struggles to escape. The result is higher temperatures around the unit that reduce efficiency.
Overheating is most likely with tight-fitting and fully enclosed covers. Leaving the bottom open or using vented materials mitigates this. But the energy savings from rain and debris protection will be lower. It???s a balancing act.
Airflow Obstruction
Any cover placed over the condenser coil will block airflow to some degree. Less exposure to moving air reduces heat transfer efficiency. That makes the system work harder to provide cooling.
Ideally, covers protect from above while allowing free airflow around the sides. Orientation also matters – heat rises naturally, so avoid covers that fully block vertical air movement. Screens keep out debris with minimal obstruction.
Moisture Buildup
Trapped heat leads to higher humidity under a cover. Stagnant air and lack of sunlight prevent drying. This moisture sustains mold growth and corrosion. Fans can be added to improve ventilation, but that adds complexity. Regular cleaning beneath the cover is essential to control moisture.
Improper Unit Access
Condenser units require periodic maintenance and repairs. Technicians need complete access to all sides for service. Covers that fully enclose the unit cause interference. Ensure service panels remain removable and large enough for a person to reach through.
Added Expense
While DIY covers are simple, purpose-built options get pricey. For example, heavy rigid covers to reduce noise run from $250-$500. Having a contractor install a customized cover also adds labor fees to the project cost. The expense may not justify small efficiency gains.
Aesthetics Issues
For custom covers, poor visual design has its own drawbacks. A sloppy DIY cover draws more attention. Disguise wraps need to blend with surroundings. Adding a large box alters your home???s look. Consider appearance and what you???ll be viewing daily.
Increased Wind Resistance
Any covering over the condenser expands its side profile exposed to wind. Stagnant air under the cover adds sail effect. Gusts put greater lateral force on the base and fasteners. This can damage the unit if it tears free. Low profile designs minimize this issue.
Key Factors to Consider
Homeowners deciding whether or not adding a condenser cover makes sense for their AC system should carefully evaluate the following factors:
Climate Conditions
Your local climate drives benefits like weather protection and energy savings. Hot, arid areas gain the most from reflectivity and shade. Cold climates want maximum exposure to moving airflow. Rain, snow, wind, and debris levels also differ. Evaluate your specific needs.
Condenser Type
Window units, wall units, packaged units, split systems, and central air conditioners each have unique condenser configurations. Make sure any cover purchased or fabricated matches the dimensions, connections, and airflow patterns.
Material Selection
Material choice drives cover advantages and disadvantages. Solid metal or plastic blocks weather but also airflow. Mesh screen filters debris with minimal obstruction. Reflective and light colors improve efficiency. Perforations add ventilation. Choose wisely.
Installation Method
Proper installation ensures the cover fits snugly while still allowing condenser function. Sealing the base limits air ingress but increases humidity. Support frames keep covers taut. Allow for removal where needed. Get professional guidance to do it right.
Maintenance Access
Do not fully enclose the unit. Condenser maintenance occurs 1-2 times per year. Technicians must open panels or remove covers fully during service. Ensure they can access all sides.
Appearance
For permanent covers, aesthetics may guide your choice. Neutral colors and textures blend better if the unit is visible. Or unique materials can disguise it as something else. Just don’t sacrifice function solely for looks.
Cost Considerations
A basic flexible cover starts around $50, while a professionally fabricated custom cover could exceed $500. Evaluate if efficiency gains warrant the price, or stick with a budget DIY version. Overall energy savings depend on climate and usage.
Recommendations
Here are some best practices to follow if you decide to cover your outdoor AC condenser:
– Leave adequate ventilation room around all sides of the unit for airflow
– Use lightweight mesh or perforated materials – avoid solid materials
– Get professional measurements before ordering or making any cover
– Ensure covers are securely fastened but still removable for service
– Make access doors or panels for maintenance access
– Check under cover regularly for moisture buildup
– Use reflective materials to minimize solar heat gain
– Confirm covers don’t void AC warranties before installation
– Hire a professional to fabricate and install any complex or customized cover
Proper cover selection, smart installation, and routine maintenance helps maximize benefits while minimizing drawbacks when covering AC condensers.
Conclusion
The decision to cover an outdoor air conditioning condenser comes with tradeoffs. Potential benefits like weather protection, reduced energy use, and noise control must be weighed against risks of overheating, airflow loss, and moisture buildup. With careful product selection and proper installation, these disadvantages can be minimized.
Homeowners are best served by evaluating their own climate conditions, unit type, aesthetic needs and maintenance requirements when choosing covers. Lightweight, vented materials offer the best performance for most situations. Professional guidance ensures proper setup for maximum efficiency gains. Weigh the costs against projected energy savings as well. With the right cover approach, outdoor AC condenser units can enjoy extended lifespan and improved function.