Should I cover my outside central a/c units?


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Old 07-22-07, 11:42 AM
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Should I cover my outside central a/c units?

My wife wants me to cover my outside a/c cental air units for the winter. I was told by the a/c contractor not to do it. So who do I listen too, My wife of the a/c contractor? Thanks!!!
 
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Old 07-22-07, 12:31 PM
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Outdoor units are meant to be out in the elements.
If you cover them you have the potential to trap moisture inside of the cover which can cause corrosion.
 
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Old 07-22-07, 07:59 PM
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A/C Cover

I agree with Greg but if you have a lot of leaves which get into the A/C & want to keep them out, you can cut a piece of plywood just to place over the top grille. Weigh the plywood down with a few bricks & remember to remove it in the spring.
 
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Old 07-23-07, 11:16 AM
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Question Oxidation and Rust

I normally cover my outside unit when it get's cold enough that oxidation and rust slows down to a stop. IIRC, Oxidation and Rust does not happen in cold temperatures due to lack of moisture. Everything is frozen.

When I first moved in to my home, I used POR-15 on all the nut hardware on the outside used. The nut hardware on the outside was rusted from the previous owner. Seven years later and the rust has slowed to a slow crawl on the nuts. I will probably give them another coat this year.
 
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Old 07-24-07, 01:59 PM
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It does not require covering but, there is alot od debris that can get into the unit. I would cover it but use a cover that breathes. There are some covers on the market made to cover A/C units and will not cause rusting. I would not use plywood as when it gets wet it will hold water for days and can cause rusting.
 
 

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