Every fall we get the same question: should I cover my AC for the winter? Outdoor condensers are built to sit outside in rain, snow and cold, so most of them don't need a full cover. What they do need is a little attention after leaf season and big storms, like the remnants of Isaias that just soaked North Jersey.
The short answer
- Central AC only (no heat pump): a full cover isn't required. If you want one, use a breathable cover or a simple top cover that blocks falling leaves and ice and leaves the sides open.
- Heat pump: don't cover it. A heat pump runs all winter to heat your home and needs open airflow on every side.
- Never wrap it in plastic or a tarp. A sealed wrap traps moisture inside, which can lead to rust and corrosion, and it gives mice and other critters a sheltered place to nest in your wiring.
After a storm or leaf season: a 5-minute check
- Look before you touch. If a branch is resting on the unit or the cabinet looks damaged, don't run it. Call for service.
- Clear debris by hand. Pull leaves, twigs and storm junk off the top grille and away from the sides. Don't poke anything through the fins.
- Keep about 2 feet clear around the unit. Trim back shrubs and rake leaves away from the base.
- Check the base. The unit should sit level on its pad. Water pooling or a pad that has shifted after heavy rain is worth a look.
- Keep snow and ice off a heat pump. Brush snow away from the sides this winter, and keep gutters and roof drip lines from dumping water or ice onto the unit.
Should you turn the AC off for winter?
On a central AC system you can leave the outdoor disconnect alone. If you do switch it off for the season, switch it back on a day before you first run the AC in spring and let the system settle before you call for cooling. On a heat pump, leave the power on; it's your heat.
Signs it needs a pro
- Dented or bent fins, a damaged fan guard, or anything struck by a falling branch
- A heat pump covered in thick ice that doesn't clear on its own
- Buzzing, rattling or the unit trying to start and stopping
- Oil stains or a hissing sound near the refrigerant lines
Our AC tune-up catches small problems before cooling season, and the Rescue Club at $19 a month makes it automatic. If something's wrong now, see our AC repair service or read when and why to service your HVAC. Every job is backed by our 1-year parts and labor warranty.
- Do I need to cover my AC unit in winter in New Jersey?
- Usually not. Outdoor condensers are built for weather. If you want protection from falling leaves and ice, use a breathable or top-only cover and leave the sides open. Never wrap it in plastic.
- Can I cover a heat pump?
- No. A heat pump runs through the winter to heat your home and needs airflow on all sides. Just keep snow, ice and debris away from it.
- What should I do with my AC after a big storm?
- Look it over first. If a branch hit it or the cabinet is damaged, don't run it and call for service. Otherwise clear leaves and debris by hand and keep about 2 feet of space around the unit.
- Do you service AC units in my town?
- We serve Bergen, Passaic, Morris, Essex, Hudson and Union counties. Call (866) 737-2830 to confirm your address.