Tips For How To Cover Air Conditioner In Wall Seasonally

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Tips For How To Cover Air Conditioner In Wall Seasonally

Winter is coming, or perhaps the hot summer days are finally ending. For many of us, this means our trusty wall air conditioner is taking a break. But simply turning it off is not enough. Covering your wall AC seasonally is a smart move. It helps protect the unit from the weather outside, keeps drafts from entering your home, and saves you money on energy bills. You should cover your wall air conditioner before the cold weather hits, usually in the late fall or early winter, and remove the cover in the spring when you plan to use it again. This process, often called winterize wall air conditioner, makes sure your home stays warm and your AC unit stays safe.

Why Cover Your Wall AC When Not In Use?

Putting a cover on your wall air conditioner when you are not using it has many important benefits. It is not just about keeping it looking nice. Covering the unit saves you energy, protects the machine, and makes your home more comfortable.

Saving Energy and Money

One of the main reasons to cover your wall AC is to save on heating costs. Wall air conditioners are built into a hole in your wall. This creates a direct path for outside air to get in.

Stopping Cold Air

When winter comes, the metal and plastic parts of the AC unit get cold. This cold spreads into your home. Also, cold air from outside can leak in around the edges of the unit and through any small openings. This creates cold spots in your room. You have to run your heater more to fight this cold air.

Putting a good cover on the inside and sometimes the outside of the unit seals off these leaks. It acts as a barrier against the cold. This is how you prevent drafts from wall AC. Stopping these drafts means your home stays warmer naturally. Your heater does not have to work as hard.

Better Insulation

An air conditioner sleeve is essentially a tunnel through your wall. Without proper covering and sealing, this tunnel allows heat from inside your home to escape outside during the winter. It also lets cold air come in. Using an energy saving wall AC cover, especially one that includes insulation, helps to break this path for heat and cold transfer. It helps insulate through wall AC unit. Think of it like putting on a warm coat. The cover helps keep the warmth inside your house where you want it. This uses less energy for heating. Less energy used means lower energy bills.

Protecting Your Unit

Outdoor weather can be harsh. Rain, snow, ice, wind, dust, leaves, and even small animals can get into the outside part of your air conditioner.

Keeping Out Water and Debris

Water is a big problem for AC units. It can rust metal parts. If water freezes inside the unit, it can expand and damage parts, like the cooling coils or the fan motor. Dirt and leaves can clog the fan or the drainage holes. An outdoor wall AC cover protects the unit from these things. It keeps rain and snow off the parts that could be damaged. It stops leaves and dirt from building up inside.

Protecting From Pests

Small animals like mice, insects, or birds might try to make a home inside your quiet, dark air conditioner during the colder months. They can chew on wires, build nests, and leave behind a mess. This can damage the unit and make it unsafe to run later. A well-fitted cover, along with sealing any gaps around the sleeve, helps keep these unwanted visitors out.

Improving Home Comfort

Beyond saving energy, covering the AC makes your home more comfortable.

Eliminating Cold Spots

Drafts from the AC unit can make the area around it feel much colder than the rest of the room. This makes the room less comfortable. Covering the unit, especially with an indoor wall AC cover, stops these cold drafts. The room stays a more even temperature.

Noise Reduction

A cover can also help block some outside noise coming through the unit. While the unit is not running, the cover provides an extra layer of sound blocking.

In short, covering your wall AC is a small step that leads to big benefits. It saves energy, protects your investment in the unit, and makes your living space more pleasant during the cold season.

When Is The Right Time To Cover Your Wall AC?

Knowing when to cover your wall air conditioner is simple. You should cover it when you are finished using it for the warm season. This is usually in the late fall.

The best time is before the freezing temperatures arrive. Freezing water can harm the unit. It is also important to cover it before strong winds blow leaves and dirt into the unit.

If you live in a place with mild winters and you might use the AC on a warm day, you might wait a bit longer. But generally, once the consistent cooler weather begins and you switch to heating your home, it is time to cover the AC.

Just as you winterize your outdoor faucets or garden hoses, you should winterize wall air conditioner units as part of preparing your home for the cold.

Getting Your Wall AC Ready For Covering

Before you put a cover on your wall air conditioner, it is very important to clean it. Covering a dirty unit can trap moisture, dirt, and even pests inside. This can cause damage over the months it is covered. Cleaning helps keep the unit in good shape and work better when you uncover it.

Cleaning The Inside Unit

The part of the AC you see inside your room needs cleaning.

1. Turn Off The Power: First and most important, turn off the power to the air conditioner. Find the power switch or unplug the unit if possible. If it is wired directly, find the breaker in your home’s electrical panel and turn it off. Safety first!
2. Clean or Replace Filters: Remove the air filters. If they are reusable, wash them gently with soap and water. Let them dry completely. If they are disposable, throw them away. Put clean or new filters back when done, or wait until spring.
3. Wipe Down The Front Panel: Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe down the front of the unit. Get rid of dust and dirt.
4. Clean Vents and Coils (Carefully): Use a vacuum with a brush tool to gently clean dust from the air vents and the cooling fins behind the filter area. Be very careful not to bend the thin metal fins. You can also use a soft brush. Do not use water inside the unit beyond wiping the outer case.
5. Clean The Drain Pan: Some units have a drain pan inside that collects water. If you can reach it easily (check your manual), clean it out to prevent mold or smells.

Cleaning The Outside Unit

The part of the AC that sticks outside also needs attention.

1. Check Power Again: Make sure the power is still off.
2. Remove Large Debris: Pull out any leaves, branches, or trash that might be stuck around or on the unit.
3. Clean Outer Coils: The metal fins on the outside are the condenser coils. These get very dirty. You can use a soft brush or a vacuum with a brush tool to remove loose dirt. For deeper cleaning, some people use a special AC coil cleaner spray (follow product directions carefully). Rinse gently with a garden hose, spraying down the fins to push dirt out, not sideways which can bend them. Make sure the unit can drain properly after rinsing.
4. Check For Pests: Look for any insect nests or signs of animal activity. Gently remove them.
5. Clean The Sleeve: The metal or plastic tube (the sleeve) that the AC unit sits in should also be cleaned. Remove debris from inside the sleeve opening if possible.

Let the unit dry completely before putting any covers on, especially outdoor covers. This prevents trapping moisture, which can lead to rust or mold. Cleaning helps the AC run better and last longer.

Types of Wall Air Conditioner Covers

There are two main types of covers for wall air conditioners: indoor covers and outdoor covers. You might choose to use one or both depending on your needs and climate.

Indoor Wall AC Cover

An indoor wall AC cover goes over the part of the air conditioner that is inside your room.

Purpose of Indoor Covers

The main job of an indoor cover is to stop cold drafts from coming into your room during the winter. It also makes the unit look better by covering it up when it is not in use. This type of cover is key to helping prevent drafts from wall AC.

Materials and Types

Indoor covers are often made from fabric, vinyl, or plastic.
* Fabric Covers: These look nicer and come in different colors or patterns. They usually have some kind of backing, like flannel or foam, for insulation. They often have elastic edges or ties to fit snugly over the unit.
* Vinyl or Plastic Covers: These are usually plain white or beige. They often have a foam layer attached. They are good at blocking air flow and moisture. They typically have elastic edges.

Many indoor covers are sold as part of a wall air conditioner insulation kit. These kits often include the cover and sometimes extra foam sealing strips to block gaps around the unit inside the room.

How They Attach

Most indoor covers slip over the front of the unit like a sock or a hood. Elastic edges help them hug the unit tightly. Some might have straps or ties to secure them. A good fit is important to block drafts.

Outdoor Wall AC Cover

An outdoor wall AC cover goes over the part of the air conditioner that is outside your home.

Purpose of Outdoor Covers

The main job of an outdoor cover is to protect the AC unit from the weather. This includes rain, snow, ice, sun, dirt, and leaves. It also helps keep pests out of the unit. It protects the metal parts from rusting and the coils from getting clogged or damaged.

Materials and Types

Outdoor covers are made from durable, weather-resistant materials.
* Vinyl: This is a common material. It is waterproof and strong. It can sometimes become stiff in very cold weather.
* Polyester or Canvas: These are also strong. They might be coated to be waterproof. They can be more breathable than vinyl, which helps prevent moisture from being trapped inside the cover.

Outdoor covers often look like a box or bag designed to fit over the entire outdoor section of the unit and the through wall air conditioner sleeve cover itself.

Important Considerations for Outdoor Covers

• Ventilation: Some outdoor covers have vents or are made of breathable material. This is important to allow some airflow. Airflow helps prevent moisture from getting trapped under the cover, which could cause rust or mold. The cover should protect from direct rain/snow but allow the unit to “breathe” a little.
• Fit: The cover should fit the unit’s size well. It should not be too tight or too loose. A cover that is too loose can blow off in the wind. A cover that is too tight might not protect fully or could be hard to put on.
• Securing the Cover: Outdoor covers usually have straps, buckles, or drawstrings to secure them tightly around the unit or the wall sleeve. This stops them from blowing away in strong winds.

Using both an indoor and an outdoor cover provides the best protection and energy savings. The indoor cover stops drafts right at the entry point into the room, and the outdoor cover protects the unit itself from harsh weather.

How To Cover Your Wall AC Unit: Step-by-Step Guides

Putting a cover on your wall air conditioner is a simple job. Here are the steps for both indoor and outdoor covers. Remember to clean the unit first, as described earlier. And always make sure the power is off!

Step-by-Step: Using an Indoor Wall AC Cover

This cover goes inside your room. It is mainly for blocking drafts and keeping warm air in.

1. Make Sure Unit is Clean and Dry: The inside part of the AC should be clean and dry.
2. Gather Your Cover: Get your chosen indoor cover or wall air conditioner insulation kit.
3. Check For Gaps: Look closely at where the AC unit meets the wall or the frame around it. Are there any visible gaps? Cold air loves to come through these small spaces.
4. Seal Any Gaps: If your insulation kit came with foam tape or sealing strips, use them now. Apply the strips around the edges of the AC unit where it meets the wall or frame. Press them firmly into any gaps. This is a key step to prevent drafts from wall AC before the cover even goes on.
5. Put On The Cover: Take the indoor cover. Carefully slip it over the front of the AC unit. Make sure the elastic edges or ties go around the sides and bottom of the unit. Pull it snug so it fits closely against the wall around the unit.
6. Adjust For Snug Fit: Make sure the cover is not letting air easily flow around the edges. If it has ties, pull them tight. If it is elastic, make sure it is stretched around the unit well. A snug fit stops drafts.
7. Check Your Work: Feel around the edges of the cover. Can you feel any cold air coming in? If so, adjust the cover or add more sealing material if needed.

Using an indoor cover helps make your home feel much warmer by stopping cold air leaks right at the source.

Step-by-Step: Using an Outdoor Wall AC Cover

This cover goes outside your home. It protects the unit from weather and pests.

1. Make Sure Unit is Clean and Dry: The outside part of the AC and the sleeve should be clean and dry. This prevents trapping moisture which can cause rust.
2. Gather Your Cover: Get your chosen outdoor cover. Make sure it is the right size for your specific AC unit or the through wall air conditioner sleeve cover.
3. Position The Cover: Carefully place the outdoor cover over the outside part of the AC unit. It should fit over the metal cage and possibly extend back to cover the end of the sleeve coming out of the wall.
4. Ensure Proper Orientation: Some covers have a specific top or bottom. Make sure any vents (if present) are positioned correctly, usually on the sides or bottom, to allow some airflow while keeping rain out.
5. Secure The Cover: Use the straps, buckles, or drawstrings that came with the cover. Tighten them firmly around the AC unit or the sleeve. The goal is to make sure the cover stays in place even in strong winds. Do not make it so tight that you damage the unit.
6. Check The Fit: Walk around the unit. Does the cover seem secure? Is it covering all the parts that need protection? Is it blocking the main opening from weather? Is it allowing any built-in vents to function?
7. Final Check Around The Sleeve: Look at where the wall sleeve goes into the wall from the outside. Are there any large gaps here that pests could get through before the cover? While the outdoor cover helps, sometimes sealing the sleeve edges from the outside with outdoor-safe caulk or foam can add extra protection against pests and air leaks into the wall cavity itself.

Using an outdoor cover protects your AC from the elements, helping it last longer and look better year after year. Using both types of covers offers the best overall protection and energy saving.

Choosing The Right Cover For Your AC

Selecting the right cover involves thinking about a few things. The best cover for you depends on your unit, your climate, and what you want the cover to do.

For Indoor Covers:

• Size: Measure the height, width, and depth of the inside part of your AC unit. Choose a cover that is designed to fit those measurements. Elastic edges help with a snug fit, but getting close to the unit size is best.
• Material: Fabric covers look nicer. Vinyl/plastic covers with foam offer better draft blocking. Think about if looks are important or if stopping drafts is the main goal.
• Insulation: Look for covers specifically marked as insulated or part of a wall air conditioner insulation kit. These will have an extra layer (like foam or batting) to help block cold air and improve energy saving.
• Ease of Use: Some covers are easier to slip on than others. Check how they attach (elastic, ties, straps).

For Outdoor Covers:

• Size: Measure the height, width, and depth of the outside part of your AC unit, including how far the sleeve sticks out from the wall. Choose a cover that fits these dimensions. A cover that is too small won’t fit. A cover that is too big might flap in the wind or not protect well.
• Material: Look for durable, weather-resistant materials like heavy-duty vinyl or coated polyester/canvas. It needs to stand up to sun, rain, snow, and wind for months.
• Ventilation: In climates with moisture, covers with vents or made of breathable material are good. They help prevent moisture from getting trapped under the cover and causing mold or rust. However, in very wet or snowy climates, you want good protection from direct water entry. Find a balance.
• Securing Mechanism: How does the cover stay on? Look for strong straps, buckles, or drawstrings that you can tighten well. This prevents the cover from blowing off in stormy weather.
• Type: Some covers are specifically designed as a through wall air conditioner sleeve cover, meaning they cover the outer grille and the part of the sleeve sticking out. Others might just cover the grille. Make sure the cover protects the parts most exposed to weather.

Reading reviews from other buyers can also help you find covers that are known to fit well and last long. Sometimes, the manufacturer of your AC unit might recommend or sell specific covers that are designed to fit perfectly.

DIY Wall AC Cover Options

If you are handy or on a tight budget, you can make your own diy wall AC cover. This is often easier for indoor covers than outdoor ones, as outdoor covers need to be very weather-resistant.

Simple Indoor DIY Cover

You can make a basic indoor cover with materials you might already have.

• Materials: A piece of thick, decorative fabric (like upholstery fabric or a thick blanket), a piece of rigid foam board insulation (the kind used for walls, about 1 inch thick), scissors, strong tape (like duct tape), and maybe some elastic or velcro.
• Steps:
  1. Measure the front of your AC unit exactly.
  2. Cut the foam board to this exact size. The foam board will be the main insulation layer to block air.
  3. Cut the fabric so it is larger than the foam board by several inches on all sides (enough to wrap around the sides and back of the foam).
  4. Center the foam board on the back side of the fabric.
  5. Wrap the edges of the fabric neatly around the sides of the foam board. Use the strong tape to secure the fabric to the back of the foam. Make the corners neat, like wrapping a present.
  6. You now have a fabric-covered foam board. You can simply place this board against the front of your AC unit.
  7. To help it stay in place and seal better, you can add elastic loops on the corners that hook around the unit, or add velcro strips to the back of the foam and the sides of the AC unit (make sure velcro doesn’t damage the unit’s finish).
  8. You can also use long strips of fabric or elastic attached to the back corners to tie around the unit or wall sleeve.

This DIY cover provides insulation and blocks drafts. The fabric makes it look better than just a plain piece of foam. It serves as an energy saving wall AC cover by adding an insulation layer.

Simple Outdoor DIY Idea (Use with Caution)

Making a truly durable, waterproof, and breathable outdoor cover is harder. Simple DIY options might offer basic protection but might not last or could trap moisture.

• Basic Materials: A heavy-duty tarp or thick plastic sheeting, strong outdoor tape, rope or bungee cords.
• Idea: Measure the outdoor part of the unit. Cut the tarp/plastic to size, allowing extra to wrap around. Drape it over the unit like a box. Use the outdoor tape to secure the edges and create a “box” shape that fits reasonably well. Use rope or bungee cords wrapped around the unit/sleeve to hold the cover on tightly, especially at the bottom.
• Caution: Make sure the plastic or tarp does not trap all the air. It is better to use a cover with some breathability or add small vent holes at the bottom corners if you use plastic (but make sure they are placed so rain doesn’t get in). This kind of DIY cover is a temporary solution and may not provide the best long-term protection compared to a purpose-built outdoor wall AC cover or through wall air conditioner sleeve cover.

For reliable outdoor protection, buying a cover made for AC units is usually best. It is designed to handle weather and often includes features like secure straps and ventilation.

Keeping Your Covers In Good Shape

Once you have your wall AC covers, you want them to last. Taking care of them is easy.

• Cleaning: When you take the covers off in the spring (more on that next), clean them before storing them.
  • Indoor fabric covers can often be gently hand-washed or machine-washed on a delicate cycle (check the tag).
  • Vinyl or plastic indoor covers and outdoor covers can be wiped down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Rinse them well.
• Drying: Make sure the covers are completely dry before storing them. Storing damp covers can cause mold or mildew. Let them air dry fully.
• Storage: Fold or roll your clean, dry covers. Store them in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight. A storage bin, shelf in a closet, or garage storage area works well. Keeping them clean and stored properly helps them last for many seasons.
• Check for Damage: Each year when you put the covers on or take them off, check them for rips, tears, or weak spots. If a cover is damaged, it might not protect or insulate properly. It might be time to replace it.

Taking a few minutes to clean and store your covers will make sure they are ready to go and in good condition when you need them again next fall.

Taking Off The Wall AC Cover In Spring

When the weather warms up and you are ready to use your air conditioner again, it is time to remove wall AC cover.

1. Make Sure It’s Warm Enough: Wait until the danger of freezing weather has passed. Using the AC briefly on a warm spring day is fine, but leaving the unit exposed to freezing rain or snow right after uncovering is not ideal.
2. Remove Outdoor Cover: If you used an outdoor cover, first unhook any straps or ties securing it. Carefully lift or pull the cover off the outside of the unit. Check the unit for any debris or pests that might have gotten under the cover. Give the outside coils a quick look.
3. Clean The Outdoor Cover: Wipe it down and let it dry completely before storing it.
4. Remove Indoor Cover: Go inside and take off the indoor cover. If you used any extra sealing strips around the edges, remove them too.
5. Clean The Indoor Cover: Clean the indoor cover according to its material type and let it dry fully.
6. Store The Covers: Fold or roll the dry covers and put them away in their storage spot.
7. Prepare The Unit: Now that the unit is uncovered, you should clean the inside part again, especially the filter. Check the air filter – replace it if it is disposable or clean it if it is reusable. This makes sure the unit is ready to run cleanly and efficiently.
8. Turn On Power: Once everything is clean and clear, you can turn the power back on to the unit at the breaker or by plugging it back in.
9. Test Run: Before a hot day arrives, run the unit for a short time on a cool setting to make sure it is working properly. Listen for strange noises.

Following these steps will help you get your wall AC ready for another cooling season.

Common Issues and How to Fix Them

Sometimes, you might have problems when covering your wall AC or while it is covered. Here are a few common ones and what to do.

• Issue: Drafts are still coming in even with the cover on.
  • Fix: The cover might not be sealed well. Check the edges of the indoor cover. Is it snug against the wall? If not, try tightening ties or adjusting the elastic. More importantly, check the gaps around the AC unit where it meets the wall inside. Add foam sealing strips from a wall air conditioner insulation kit or use your own foam tape to seal these gaps before putting the cover on. The cover helps, but sealing the gaps is key to prevent drafts from wall AC.
• Issue: Moisture or condensation builds up under the outdoor cover.
  • Fix: This happens if the cover traps moisture and does not allow for enough airflow. Make sure the outdoor cover is completely dry when you put it on. If you used a DIY plastic cover, it might not be breathable enough. Consider buying a purpose-built outdoor wall AC cover that has vents or is made of breathable material. Make sure any built-in vents on the cover are not blocked. If you have a vinyl cover without vents, you could try loosening the ties slightly on dry days to allow a little air movement, but ensure it’s still secure against wind.
• Issue: The outdoor cover blew off in the wind.
  • Fix: The cover was not secured tightly enough, or the securing method is not strong enough for your climate. Make sure you are using the straps, buckles, or drawstrings to tighten the cover firmly around the unit or the through wall air conditioner sleeve cover. If the cover only has elastic, it might not be enough for windy areas. Look for covers with strong ties or buckles. You could try adding extra bungee cords wrapped around the unit and cover for more security. Make sure the size is right; a cover that is too big is harder to secure.
• Issue: Pests (insects, mice) got into the unit despite the cover.
  • Fix: Pests likely found a way in around the edges of the sleeve where it goes into the wall, or the cover is not sealed tightly against the unit. Check the gaps around the through wall air conditioner sleeve cover from the outside. Seal these gaps with outdoor-safe caulk or expanding foam specifically designed for pest blocking. Make sure your indoor cover is snug too, as some pests can come in from the inside if there are internal gaps. A well-fitting outdoor cover is essential, but sealing gaps in the wall sleeve is the first line of defense against pests getting into the wall itself and then potentially into the unit.

Dealing with these issues helps make sure your seasonal covering is effective and your AC unit stays protected.

In Conclusion

Taking the time to cover your wall air conditioner seasonally is a worthwhile task. It is more than just putting something over the unit. It is about winterize wall air conditioner properly to protect your investment and make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient during the colder months.

By using an indoor wall AC cover and an outdoor wall AC cover, you create a double layer of protection. The indoor cover, especially as part of a wall air conditioner insulation kit, is excellent at helping to prevent drafts from wall AC units, keeping warm air in and cold air out. This is a major step towards creating an energy saving wall AC cover setup that lowers your heating bills.

The outdoor cover protects the actual machinery from harsh weather, dirt, and pests. Choosing the right covers based on size, material, and features like ventilation and secure fastenings is important. Whether you buy pre-made covers or try a diy wall AC cover (especially for indoors), the key is to get a snug fit and, for indoors, focus on insulation.

Remember to clean your unit thoroughly before covering it. This prevents problems like mold or rust from developing while it is stored for the season. And in the spring, remember to remove wall AC cover properly, clean the unit again, and get it ready for the warmer weather.

Seasonal covering might seem like a small chore, but the benefits in terms of energy savings, unit lifespan, and home comfort are significant. It is a simple and effective way to care for your home and your wall air conditioner.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

H5 Do I really need to cover my wall AC if I have central heating?

Yes, you should. Even with central heating, a wall AC unit creates a direct opening through your wall. Without a cover, especially an indoor one with insulation, cold air will leak in through the unit, making the room colder and forcing your central heating system to work harder. This wastes energy and money. Covering it helps prevent drafts from wall AC.

H5 Can I just use plastic wrap or a garbage bag?

For outdoor units, this is generally not a good idea. While it might keep water out, it can trap moisture inside the unit because it does not allow for airflow. This trapped moisture can cause rust and damage. A proper outdoor wall AC cover is designed to be weather-resistant but also allows some ventilation. For indoor, a simple fabric cover might not provide enough insulation or draft blocking compared to a thicker cover or wall air conditioner insulation kit. DIY can work, but purpose-made covers usually perform better.

H5 Should I cover both the inside and outside of the unit?

Using both an indoor wall AC cover and an outdoor wall AC cover offers the best protection and energy savings. The indoor cover stops drafts from entering your room directly. The outdoor cover protects the unit itself from weather and pests. Together, they provide comprehensive seasonal care and are part of properly completing the winterize wall air conditioner process.

H5 How do I know what size cover to buy?

You need to measure your specific wall AC unit. For an indoor cover, measure the height, width, and depth of the part inside your room. For an outdoor cover, measure the height, width, and how far the unit and its sleeve stick out from the wall outside. Compare these measurements to the sizes listed for the covers you are looking at.

H5 Can covering the outside unit cause problems?

If the outdoor cover does not allow any ventilation and traps moisture, it can potentially cause rust or mold. This is why choosing a cover made from breathable material or one with vents is often recommended, especially in areas with changing temperatures or humidity. Also, make sure the cover is secured tightly so it does not blow off in the wind. A proper through wall air conditioner sleeve cover is designed to balance protection and ventilation.

H5 Does covering the AC unit save a lot on energy bills?

Yes, it can. By stopping cold drafts and preventing heat from escaping through the unit (insulating the sleeve), you reduce the workload on your heating system. This directly leads to using less energy for heating, which results in lower energy bills during the cold season. It is a key part of making an energy saving wall AC cover setup work for you.