Cover AC unit from snow and ice?

Should ac units be covered or left open in snow climates in the winter? Will tarpping them rust them or will it protect them? Thoughts?
Should ac units be covered or left open in snow climates in the winter? Will tarpping them rust them or will it protect them? Thoughts?
This floating home maximizes its waterfront location with seamless indoor-outdoor living, a unique two-story layout, and a design that prioritizes light and views.
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox
Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.
Start Free Trial NowGet instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.
Start Free Trial NowDig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.
Start Free Trial NowGet instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.
Start Free Trial Now© 2025 Active Interest Media. All rights reserved.
Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox
Become a member and get instant access to thousands of videos, how-tos, tool reviews, and design features.
Start Your Free TrialGet complete site access to expert advice, how-to videos, Code Check, and more, plus the print magazine.
Already a member? Log in
Replies
I always cover the top 2/3 of mine. Done it for years. Looks better than most. Jay
Mine (Bryant/Carrier) came with a couple of very nice heavy duty covers that cover them from head to toe.
No problems after...six or seven years of covering them through the winters here in CT.
cover them...
the big boxes carry a nice assortment of swamp cooler covers that should work very nicely...
Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming
WOW!!! What a Ride!
Forget the primal scream, just ROAR!!!
I live in the woods and anything covered becomes a rodent condominum when the weather turns cold. I find it easier to clean out a little fall/winter debris in the spring than to rewire. In most cases, covering is better. Covered or not, if you want it to last, clean all the debris out every once in a while and make sure it drains well.