Your window AC unit worked hard all summer to help keep you cool, but now as fall and winter approach, what do you do?
It’s a lot of work taking that window AC unit in and out every season and something most people would like to avoid if they don’t absolutely have to. So is it ok to leave air conditioner in window during winter or not? Let’s find out!
Looking for a quick answer? In short, it’s okay to leave your AC in the window during winter. Make sure to use a high quality cover to protect it. We recommend the highly rated Luxiv Window Air Conditioner Cover.
Can I Leave My AC In The Window During Winter?
Whether or not you can leave your window AC unit in depends on the specific climate where you live. Generally, to get the most longevity out of your AC unit, you will want to remove it and store it indoors when not in use.
However, if your area has mild winters or if removing the AC unit completely from the window is either too difficult or not an option, then you can leave it in.
If you decide to leave it in, it’s best to protect the unit from the elements as well as insulate the area surrounding the installation.
Snow or other moisture entering the unit from the outside and then freezing can damage the components, so steps need to be taken to avoid this if leaving the unit installed all winter.
Can You Run A Window Air Conditioner In The Winter?
Although some AC units do come with a feature allowing them to operate in reverse, most AC units should not be run in winter temperatures.
Oils used in the mechanical areas of the AC unit such as the compressor will become too thick in colder weather and will no longer function as a lubricant. When this happens, the unit will quickly wear out.
Consult the user manual that came with your window AC as it will specify the exact operating temperatures appropriate for the unit.
Usually, AC units need to be used above 60 degrees fahrenheit to avoid damage to the internal components.
Should You Take Window AC Units Out Winter?
This can be dependent on your specific circumstances as well as the climate where you happen to live.
Optimally, you should remove the AC unit from the window each winter or when not used for long periods of time. But we know that in some cases, this is either too inconvenient or simply not possible.
If you are not able to remove the AC unit in the winter or would rather not deal with the hassle, make sure to properly protect the unit from the elements before the winter months begin.
Is It Bad To Leave AC In The Window All Year?
You do risk damage to the window AC unit if you choose to leave it all year long. The risk of damage is mostly dependent on how severe the winters are in your area.
In areas with mild winters, there is usually little risk to the AC unit as long as you take the proper precautions to winterize the installation. Areas with extreme winter weather and sub-zero temperatures are much more likely to result in damage.
How Do I Protect My Window Air Conditioner In The Winter?
If you’ve decided to leave your window AC unit installed during the winter, there are few key precautions and steps you should follow to minimize any possible damage.
If you follow these recommendations, your AC unit should be able to withstand the elements and be ready to go next summer.
1. Use a protective cover
If you plan on leaving the AC unit in your window, then make sure to use a high quality cover.
A great option is the Luxiv Window Air Conditioner Cover.
This cover is unique in that it covers all sides of the AC unit.
Some other lower quality covers leave the bottom exposed which is not ideal.
Next, it has adjustable straps to keep the cover tightly pressed against the AC unit.
This creates a nice, clean look, but also prevents wind and rain from entering.
2. Insulate the area around the AC unit
When leaving the unit installed during the winter, you’ll want to add extra insulation to the area around the AC unit and the window. If you don’t, this may become a cold spot and increase your heating bills.
Check for gaps or air leaks around the AC unit and seal these with either weather stripping, foam inserts, or tape. Most home improvement retailers sell kits to help seal the area around window AC units.
3. Inspect the AC unit from the outside periodically during the winter
Once a month, check on the AC unit from the outside to make sure the protective cover is still firmly in place and doing its job. Also, check for any signs of damage to the cover that may be allowing rain or snow to get inside.
Repair any damage you find or readjust the straps as needed to maintain a tight seal around the unit.
If moisture has already entered inside the cover, it may be best to remove the cover so that the moisture can evaporate before replacing the cover again.
Final Thoughts On Leave AC in Window During Winter
While it may be best to remove the AC unit when not in use, this is not always possible. It’s also quite an inconvenience to have to do this every few months.
So if you would rather not deal with the hassle of removing your window AC unit, follow the tips in this article and make sure to get a quality cover for your unit to protect it from the elements.
If you follow these steps, your window AC unit should be ready to go next year when the temperatures start rising.