How to Cover and Pack My Air Conditioner for the Winter

· 4 min read
How to Cover and Pack My Air Conditioner for the Winter

The wind is getting chilly as winter comes around the corner. It’s time to pack up your air conditioners and bring out those heaters. But it’s not necessary, especially if you live in the UAE. Where the winter temperatures don’t drop much. But you’ll probably have to pack up your AC unit before the chilly winds get to it.

Many people find it difficult to find the right way to pack up their ACs. Luckily, today, we’re talking exactly about that! Join us as we learn about the right way to pack your air conditioning units. So follow our pro tips to save your Air Conditioners Dubai from damage.

Why Should I Cover My Air Conditioning Unit?

You must be thinking that winter doesn’t last long. Nor does it get too cold in the Middle East. But covering the AC unit is important, especially if you’re not using it for a long time. Let’s find out more reasons why you should be covering your ACs this winter.

Flying Debris

This one is the biggest enemy of your outdoor AC units. When your AC isn’t running, it might catch flying debris and dried leaves. And if you turn it on after winter, then this debris will damage the delicate fins of your AC unit. Thus leaving you with a broken-down unit during summer.

Snow

Another thing that damages your AC unit is a thick layer of snow. While a thin layer of frost and ice won't hurt as much. But if this starts to collect and turns into a thicker layer, this is where it gets serious. This snow adds weight to the fan blades, bearing them down. And when it defrosts, it will make the fins bend and might cause a problem when you turn it on.

Temperature Change

The changing temperature causes ice to fall from trees and roofs. And if this ice hits your AC unit, it can cause some serious damage. This damage is mainly to the exterior of the unit. But if the ice weighs enough, it can even damage the fins and coils inside the unit.

Moreover, the water dripping from melting ice can collect into the unit. And once the temperatures fall again. It will cause the water to freeze inside the unit and expand. Thus damaging the insides of your AC unit.

How to Cover My AC Unit?

Now you know why you need to protect your AC unit from the weather; it’s time to learn the how. The best way is to take the unit off and store it somewhere safe completely. But not everyone is able to dismount the unit. Luckily, there are other ways through which you can save your unit from damage. This will also extend the life of your AC and keep it safe for a longer time.

Pack Around the Unit

The easiest way to pack your unit is using foam. You can cut lengths of firm foam according to the height and width of your window or outdoor unit. You can use a butter knife to push the foam pieces into the spaces between the unit and your frame. Another great but pricey way is to use spray foam. This will make sure that your unit snuggly fits into the frame. But remember to use it lightly as this foam expands a lot after you apply it.

Prep the Unit for the Weather

Next, it's time to prepare the outdoor unit for the weather. Start by removing the outside cover of the unit so you can see its insides. Then, place a large plastic garbage bag over the front of your unit so that it covers up everything. You can tuck or tape the loose parts of the bag. This will make sure that this plastic keeps your unit’s internal parts safe from damage. You can either use duct tape or any strong adhesive to do this. Just make sure that it doesn’t damage your unit in any way. Finally, place the cover back on to close the unit, and you’re good to go!

Cover it!

You can easily get heavy fabric covers that fit window ACs perfectly. All you need to do is slip the cover onto the outside part of your window AC. This will help it protect from things that can damage your unit. Such as debris, rain, snow, and dripping water. Moreover, having these covers is important, as they can protect your unit in the case of a thunderstorm or hailstorm. Just make sure that you don’t leave the cover on when you’re running the unit.

Removing and Storing the Unit

This is the best way to protect your unit from any damage. And especially if you’re using a window AC, then you can cut down on your bills. How? By removing the unit completely, you can seal the window to keep the warm air from escaping. This will cut down on your heater bills and save you the extra costs. However, handling an AC unit is a difficult task. And you might need an extra pair of hands or even professional help. So make sure that you prep fully before you decide to take off your AC unit.

How Can I Store My AC Unit?

If you wish your AC to remain perfectly running for the next summer. Then, the most important part is how you’re storing it. Don’t simply place it in a corner of your garage or somewhere in your basement. You need to make sure that you cover it before storing it. Otherwise, debris, dirt, and water can damage your unit. An easy way to go about this is by placing it somewhere it doesn’t come in contact with the floor. This will make sure that water doesn’t reach your unit and damage it. Moreover, make sure that it isn’t in such a spot where someone might keep something on it accidentally. By storing it the right way, you cut down on bills and keep your AC in the best condition.

Now that you know how to store and pack your AC unit correctly. It’s time to get to know the professionals of the job. Visit the Central Trading Company to get the best air conditioners and Water Coolers Dubai has.