Winter’s chill can be a real pain, especially when you’ve got a window air conditioner unit letting cold drafts sneak into your cozy home. Not only do these drafts make your heating system work harder, but leaving your AC unit exposed to the elements all winter can also shorten its lifespan. That’s where a high-quality window air conditioner cover for winter comes in handy!
Choosing the best window air conditioner cover for winter isn’t just about throwing a tarp over your unit; it’s about smart protection and energy efficiency. A good cover will block cold air, prevent heat loss, and shield your AC from snow, ice, rain, and debris. This can lead to noticeable savings on your utility bills and ensure your AC is ready to perform when summer rolls around again.
We’ve scoured the market to bring you a comprehensive list of the top 10 best options available, ensuring your home stays warm and your wallet stays happy. Let’s dive in!
Why You Need a Winter AC Cover
Before we get to the reviews, let’s quickly touch on why investing in an insulated AC cover for winter is a smart move:
- Energy Savings: A well-insulated cover acts as a draft stopper, preventing cold air from seeping in and warm air from escaping through your AC unit. This reduces the workload on your furnace, saving you money on heating costs.
- Unit Protection: Harsh winter weather, including heavy snow, freezing rain, and strong winds, can damage your outdoor AC unit. A durable, waterproof cover protects against rust, corrosion, debris, and wear and tear, extending your unit’s lifespan.
- Pest Deterrent: Covers can also help deter pests like rodents and insects from making a home inside your AC unit during its dormant months.
- Improved Indoor Comfort: Eliminating those chilly drafts means a more consistently warm and comfortable indoor environment for you and your family.
The Top 10 Best Window Air Conditioner Covers for Winter
Here are our picks for the best covers to get your AC unit through the cold months.
1. Winter Window Air Conditioner Cover Waterproof for Outside
This outdoor AC unit cover stands out with its robust, triple-layer construction designed for ultimate winter protection. Crafted from high-quality materials and featuring thoughtful design elements like adjustable straps, it’s engineered to keep your AC unit safe from the harshest winter elements while helping you maintain indoor warmth. Its versatility, with multiple sizes and a cuttable bracket design, makes it a top contender for various AC units.
Key Features:
– 3-layer waterproof material: 420D Oxford cloth, antifreeze insulation pearl cotton, antifreeze aluminum foil layer.
– Double adjustable straps with snap buckles for secure fit.
– Waterproof & snowproof with high-temperature press glue at stitching joints.
– Bottom cuttable bracket design for compatibility with support brackets.
– Available in four sizes (S, M, L, XL) for various BTU ranges.
Pros:
– Excellent multi-layer insulation provides superior protection.
– Secure double-strap design prevents blow-offs in strong winds.
– Allows for bracket accommodation, enhancing fit for many units.
– Effectively blocks cold air and protects against moisture.
Cons:
– Requires careful measurement to ensure the correct size selection.
– The cutting feature, while useful, needs to be done precisely.
User Impressions:
Customers frequently praise this cover for its noticeable impact on energy efficiency and its sturdy construction. Many appreciate the secure fit provided by the double straps and the ability to customize for brackets, reporting a significant reduction in cold drafts.
2. Outside Insulated Window Air Conditioner Cover for Outdoor
Designed for comprehensive all-weather protection, this outside insulated window air conditioner cover is a solid choice for safeguarding your unit and enhancing your home’s energy efficiency. Its triple-layer construction is particularly effective at reflecting heat and insulating against cold, making it a reliable barrier against winter’s worst. The adjustable fit ensures it stays put, even on blustery days.
Key Features:
– Triple-layer construction: Black waterproof outer layer, aluminum foil mid-layer, insulating pearl cotton inner layer.
– Adjustable straps with metal buckles for a secure fit.
– Customizable bottom to accommodate support brackets.
– Designed to prevent cold air entry and warm air escape.
– Standard size: 21″W x 15″H x 16″D.
Pros:
– Robust triple-layer design offers excellent insulation and weather protection.
– Metal buckles provide superior durability over plastic alternatives.
– Helps significantly with energy efficiency by blocking drafts.
– Customizable bottom improves compatibility with various setups.
Cons:
– Only offered in one standard size, limiting options for larger or smaller units.
– The cutting feature may require some manual effort.
User Impressions:
Reviewers often highlight the cover’s effectiveness in preventing drafts and its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions. The quality of the materials and the secure metal buckles are frequently mentioned as positives, giving users confidence in its durability.
3. Window Air Conditioner Covers for Outside Unit for Winter
TOHONFOO brings a heavy-duty solution for winter AC protection with this three-layer insulated cover. Emphasizing durability and robust draft blocking, this cover uses a thicker oxford fabric and reinforced components to withstand harsh weather. Its focus on security and insulation makes it a great choice for those seeking serious protection against the elements and cold air infiltration.
Key Features:
– Three-layer structure: 600D waterproof/windproof oxford fabric, 2mm thickened pearl cotton, insulated aluminum foil.
– Inner dimensions: 21″W x 16″D x 15″H (fits units up to 20.5″W x 15.5″D x 14.5″H).
– Bottom-cut design for bracket compatibility.
– Durable metal buckle adjustable strap.
– All-weather protection against harsh conditions.
Pros:
– Thickest pearl cotton insulation among similar designs for superior draft blocking.
– Heavy-duty 600D oxford fabric offers enhanced durability and weather resistance.
– Metal buckles are more reliable and long-lasting than plastic.
– Specifically designed to fit a wide range of standard units.
Cons:
– Still requires precise measurement before purchase for optimal fit.
– The specified dimensions might not suit all “standard” units perfectly.
User Impressions:
Customers rave about the sturdy feel and effective insulation of this cover. Many note a significant improvement in reducing drafts and appreciate the robust metal buckles that keep it firmly in place during windy conditions.
4. Window Air Conditioner Covers for Outside Unit to Protect
Amerbro’s professional outdoor AC cover takes winter protection seriously with its “Thermal Locking Trilayer Construction.” This cover goes beyond basic protection, aiming for superior insulation and temperature regulation thanks to its advanced material layers. Its military-spec metal buckles and abrasion-resistant webbing further highlight its commitment to extreme durability and user-friendly installation, making it a premium choice.
Key Features:
– Thermal Locking Trilayer Construction: 600D Oxford fabric, 2mm high-density pearl cotton padding, heat-reflective aluminum foil lining.
– Interior space: 21″W x 15″H x 16″D (fits units up to 20.5″W x 14.5″H x 15.5″D).
– Easy-Fit Design for mounting brackets with trim lines.
– Military-spec metal buckles and premium-grade, abrasion-resistant straps.
– “StormArmor Protection” ensures robust defense against harsh weather.
Pros:
– Advanced triple-layer design offers exceptional insulation and weather defense.
– High-quality metal buckles and reinforced straps provide maximum security and durability.
– Thoughtful design accommodates mounting brackets easily.
– Outperforms many standard covers in terms of material quality and construction.
Cons:
– Premium features might come at a slightly higher price point.
– Careful measurement is crucial to leverage the “perfect fit” design.
User Impressions:
Users are consistently impressed with the robust construction and high-quality materials, often noting how well it withstands severe weather. The secure attachment system and noticeable difference in draft reduction are frequently praised, giving peace of mind during winter.
5. Window Air Conditioner Cover Outdoor, Luxiv Outside Window
The Luxiv outdoor window AC cover offers reliable protection with a focus on simplicity and effectiveness. Made from 420D waterproof Oxford cloth with a silver inner layer, it prioritizes keeping your unit dry and preventing cold air from entering your home. Its double strap design ensures a snug fit, making it a straightforward yet effective solution for winterizing your AC.
Key Features:
– 420D waterproof oxford cloth with a silver inner layer for enhanced waterproofing.
– Size: 21″W * 16″D * 15″H (fits most 3,000 – 7,000 BTU units).
– Double adjustable straps with snap buckles for secure attachment.
– Designed to isolate cold air and dust, keeping rooms warm.
– Washable and durable material.
Pros:
– Good waterproof capabilities with the silver inner layer.
– Double straps provide a secure and adjustable fit.
– Effective at blocking dust, rain, snow, and cold drafts.
– Easy to clean and maintain for long-term use.
Cons:
– Only one size is listed, limiting compatibility for units outside the specified range.
– Lacks the multi-layer insulation of some other premium covers.
User Impressions:
Many users find this cover to be a great value, praising its waterproof qualities and ease of installation. They often mention that it effectively keeps out cold drafts and protects their AC units, despite being a simpler design.
6. Air Conditioner Cover Indoor – Window Ac Covers for
Unlike the outdoor covers, this DEMEDO product is an indoor air conditioner cover, specifically designed to stop cold drafts right at the source inside your home. Its unique hook and loop tape installation ensures a tight seal, making it incredibly effective at preventing heat loss and keeping your living space warm. It’s a fantastic complement to an outdoor cover or a standalone solution for drafty units.
Key Features:
– Inner size: 21″W x 15″H x 3.5″D (also available in multiple sizes).
– Installed with hook and loop tape for a secure, sealed fit.
– Professional insulation material: 600D Oxford cloth with waterproof coating, efficient insulation layer, sealed aluminum foil layer.
– Thoughtful power cord outlet design with Velcro Ears in corners.
– Multi-functional: windproof, waterproof, thermal insulation, dust cover.
Pros:
– Specifically designed for indoor draft blocking, highly effective.
– Hook and loop tape provides a superior seal compared to traditional indoor covers.
– Insulated triple-layer material significantly reduces heat loss.
– Power cord outlets are a convenient and well-thought-out feature.
Cons:
– Does not protect the exterior of the AC unit from weather.
– Requires careful measurement to ensure a snug internal fit.
User Impressions:
Customers love the effectiveness of this indoor cover in stopping cold drafts and appreciate the secure fit provided by the hook and loop tape. Many report a noticeable difference in room temperature and energy savings, finding it much better than standard indoor covers.
7. Window Air Conditioner Insulation Cover, Outdoor Dust-Proof
This window AC cover provides a well-rounded defense against winter’s onslaught. With its three layers of material including high-density oxford cloth, EPE foam, and aluminum foil, it’s built to insulate and protect without needing to remove the unit. The inclusion of sturdy metal buckle straps and a cuttable design makes it a versatile and secure option for outdoor AC unit winterization.
Key Features:
– 3 layers: High-density waterproof oxford cloth, insulation EPE foam, high quality aluminum foil.
– Windproof & waterproof, protects from leaves, debris, rain, snow, and UV.
– Cuttable design at the bottom for bracket compatibility.
– Metal buckle straps for a sturdy, adjustable, and tight fit.
– Easy to install; Size: 21.1″L × 15″H × 16″D.
Pros:
– Effective three-layer insulation and weather protection.
– Metal buckles ensure a more secure and durable attachment than plastic.
– Bracket-compatible design enhances versatility.
– Helps conserve energy by preventing cold air from entering.
Cons:
– Only one size is provided in the description, which might not fit all units.
– The EPE foam might be less dense than pearl cotton in some competitors.
User Impressions:
Users frequently comment on the ease of installation and the reliable fit thanks to the metal buckle straps. They report that the cover effectively keeps out cold air and protects their unit from winter weather, making it a valued purchase for home insulation.
8. THERMWELL AC2H Air Conditioner Cover, 18 by 27 by
The THERMWELL AC2H offers a straightforward and budget-friendly solution for basic outdoor AC unit protection. Made from durable polyethylene, it focuses on blocking out water, ice, dust, and leaves, providing essential weatherproofing for your unit. While simpler in design compared to multi-layer insulated covers, it’s a solid choice for those seeking fundamental protection without added bulk.
Key Features:
– Durable polyethylene material.
– Blocks out water, ice, dust, and leaves.
– Silver color.
– Dimensions: 18″W x 27″H x 18″D.
Pros:
– Affordable option for basic weather protection.
– Polyethylene is known for its durability and water resistance.
– Effectively keeps debris and moisture out of the unit.
– Simple and easy to install.
Cons:
– Lacks insulation for significant draft blocking or energy savings.
– Attachment method (not specified, but often bungee cords or ties) may not be as secure as straps/buckles.
– Limited aesthetic appeal compared to black oxford fabric covers.
User Impressions:
Customers looking for a simple, cost-effective way to protect their AC unit appreciate this cover. They find it effective for keeping out rain and leaves, noting its basic yet functional design for temporary or seasonal use.
9. Air Conditioner Cover for Window Units Outside Winter Ac
This outdoor AC insulation cover is designed for comprehensive protection, ensuring your unit is fully covered – including the bottom – to prevent cold drafts and prolong its life. Made from heavy-duty 420D polyester, it prioritizes preventing water accumulation and corrosion, while its windproof material helps reduce heating costs. It’s a robust solution for a medium-sized AC unit.
Key Features:
– Heavy-duty, waterproof 420D polyester material.
– Full coverage (bottom included) to prevent cold drafts.
– Wind-proof material to block cold drafts and prevent heat exchange.
– Ideal size: 21.5″ W x 15″ H x 16″ D (fits most 3,000 – 7,000 BTU units).
– Secured with two sturdy adjustable straps.
Pros:
– Full coverage, including the bottom, offers superior draft prevention.
– Heavy-duty waterproof material prevents rust and corrosion.
– Adjustable straps ensure a secure and easy assembly.
– Effectively helps reduce heating costs by insulating the unit.
Cons:
– Specific sizing might not be universally compatible, requiring precise measurement.
– While windproof, the level of insulation might be less than triple-layer designs.
User Impressions:
Users appreciate the full coverage provided by this cover, especially the protection for the bottom of the unit. They report a noticeable reduction in cold drafts and find the adjustable straps make for a snug and secure fit, holding up well in adverse weather.
10. Breeze Stop Surround Insulation Side Panels White for
While not a full AC unit cover, the Breeze Stop Surround Insulation Side Panels are an essential addition for maximizing the energy efficiency and comfort of your window AC unit during winter (and summer!). These thick foam panels replace the flimsy accordion sides of your AC, providing a robust barrier against cold air, heat, noise, and light. They perfectly complement an outdoor cover or improve units without one.
Key Features:
– 1” thick insulating foam covered in white flexible vinyl.
– Fits windows 36” wide or smaller (panels must be cut to size).
– Covers existing pull-out plastic sides, does not replace them.
– Composed of 3 pieces: 2 side panels, 1 long top panel with adhesive flaps.
– Helps mitigate noise and light, in addition to insulating.
Pros:
– Significantly improves insulation around the AC unit’s sides.
– Blocks cold air, heat, noise, and light more effectively than standard accordion panels.
– Customizable fit by cutting to size.
– Easy to install with adhesive flaps.
Cons:
– Does not cover the main body of the AC unit (requires a separate outdoor or indoor cover).
– Requires careful measurement and cutting for a perfect fit.
User Impressions:
Customers consistently praise these side panels for their dramatic improvement over the flimsy accordion panels that come with AC units. They report a noticeable reduction in drafts, noise, and light, making their rooms much more comfortable and energy-efficient.
FAQ: Your Top Questions About Window AC Covers Answered
Q1: Why should I cover my window AC unit in winter?
A1: Covering your window AC unit in winter helps in several ways: it blocks cold drafts from entering your home, prevents heat loss, protects the unit from harsh weather (snow, ice, rain, wind, dust, debris), extends its lifespan by preventing rust and corrosion, and can even deter pests from nesting inside. All these factors contribute to energy savings and improved indoor comfort.
Q2: What’s the main difference between an indoor and an outdoor AC cover?
A2: An outdoor AC cover is designed to protect the exterior of your AC unit from weather elements like snow, rain, ice, and wind. It typically features waterproof and durable materials. An indoor AC cover is installed inside your home, over the AC unit’s internal vents. Its primary purpose is to block cold drafts from entering your living space and prevent heat from escaping. Many people use both an outdoor and an indoor cover for comprehensive winterization.
Q3: How do I choose the right size for my window AC cover?
A3: Always measure your AC unit’s width, height, and depth before purchasing a cover. Look for a cover that matches or is slightly larger than your unit’s dimensions to ensure a snug fit. Many product descriptions will specify internal or external dimensions and recommended BTU ranges, so pay close attention to these details.
Q4: What materials are best for a winter window AC cover?
A4: For outdoor covers, look for heavy-duty, waterproof materials like 420D or 600D Oxford fabric, often with a PVC or silver coating for enhanced water resistance. Many effective covers feature multiple layers, including insulation like pearl cotton, EPE foam, or aluminum foil, to provide thermal protection. For indoor covers, similar multi-layered insulated fabrics are ideal for blocking drafts.
Q5: Will an AC cover really save me money on heating bills?
A5: Yes, absolutely! An uncovered window AC unit is essentially a hole in your wall, allowing cold air to infiltrate and warm air to escape. By effectively sealing off this opening with an insulated AC cover (especially a multi-layered one, or a combination of indoor and outdoor covers), you significantly reduce heat loss, allowing your heating system to work less, which translates to lower energy consumption and reduced utility bills.
Q6: How do I install an outdoor window AC cover?
A6: Most outdoor AC covers are designed for easy installation. Simply slide the cover over your AC unit. Many covers come with adjustable straps (often with snap buckles or metal buckles) that wrap around the unit to secure the cover tightly, preventing it from blowing off in windy conditions. Some also feature cuttable sections at the bottom to accommodate support brackets, ensuring a proper fit.
Q7: Can I leave my AC cover on all year round?
A7: While you can leave some covers on year-round, it’s generally recommended to remove outdoor covers during the warmer months when the AC unit is in use. This allows proper airflow and prevents potential moisture buildup inside the unit from condensation, which could lead to mildew or corrosion. Indoor covers are typically only used during the heating season.
Q8: How do I clean my AC cover?
A8: Most AC covers can be cleaned easily with a damp cloth and mild soap. For more stubborn dirt or mildew, you can use a soft brush. Ensure the cover is thoroughly dry before storing it away or reinstalling it, especially if it’s an outdoor cover, to prevent any mildew growth.
Final Thoughts
Protecting your window air conditioner during the winter is a no-brainer. Not only does it safeguard your investment from harsh weather and potential damage, but it also plays a crucial role in maintaining your home’s warmth and lowering those pesky heating bills.
Whether you opt for a heavy-duty, triple-layer outdoor cover, a draft-blocking indoor solution, or innovative insulating side panels, choosing the best window air conditioner cover for winter is a smart decision for any homeowner. Take the time to measure your unit, consider your specific needs, and select one of these top options to keep your home cozy and your AC unit happy all winter long!