DIY Indoor Air Conditioner Covers are a fantastic, budget-friendly way to protect your window units from dust, debris, and the elements when not in use. These easy projects keep your AC in top shape and can even add a decorative touch to your home, saving you money on cleaning and repairs.
Is that bulky window air conditioner unit an eyesore when it’s not powering your home with cool air? You’re not alone! Many of us struggle with how to hide or protect these essential summer machines during the cooler months. Leaving them exposed can invite dust, leaves, and even critters, leading to costly cleaning or potential damage. But don’t worry! Today, we’re diving into some super simple and clever DIY indoor air conditioner covers that will have your unit looking neat and tidy, all while protecting your investment. Get ready to transform that window unit from an eyesore to a hidden gem!
Let’s explore some brilliant and easy ways to craft your own AC covers, no matter your DIY skill level. We’ll cover everything from super quick solutions to more decorative options that can blend in with your home’s style.
Why You Need an Indoor Air Conditioner Cover
Think of your indoor air conditioner cover as a cozy blanket for your AC unit during its downtime. When the summer heat fades, these units are often left in place, vulnerable to the elements. Here’s why protecting them is a smart move:
- Dust and Debris Protection: When your AC isn’t running, it can become a magnet for dust bunnies, pet hair, and general household grime. A simple cover prevents this build-up, meaning less cleaning when you’re ready to switch it back on.
- Pest Prevention: Small insects or even rodents might find an unused AC unit an attractive place to hide or nest. A well-fitted cover acts as a barrier, keeping unwanted guests out.
- Draft Prevention: In the winter, an uncovered window unit can be a source of cold drafts. A snug cover adds an extra layer of insulation to your window, helping to keep your home warmer and your energy bills lower.
- Protecting the Unit: Accasional bumps or scrapes can happen. A cover offers a basic level of protection against minor physical damage.
- Aesthetics: Let’s be honest, window AC units aren’t always the prettiest. A DIY cover can significantly improve the look of your room, making the unit less conspicuous.
Choosing the Right DIY Cover Style for You
The best DIY cover for you depends on a few things: your skill level, the materials you have on hand, and how much time you want to invest. We’ve broken down some popular options:
1. The Super Simple Fabric Cover
This is the easiest and quickest DIY project, perfect for absolute beginners. It requires minimal crafting skills and can be done in under an hour.
What You’ll Need:
- An old sheet, thick fabric remnant, or even a waterproof tarp (for extra protection).
- Measuring tape.
- Scissors.
- Optional: Fabric glue, velcro strips, or elastic band.
Steps:
- Measure Your AC Unit: Carefully measure the width, height, and depth of your window air conditioner unit.
- Cut Your Fabric: Lay your chosen fabric flat. Cut a piece that is slightly larger than your unit measurements to ensure a snug, but not too tight, fit. You want enough fabric to drape over the front, sides, and top. If you want to cover the back that faces into the room, cut an extra piece for that as well.
- Hem the Edges (Optional but Recommended): To prevent fraying, fold over the edges of the fabric twice and use fabric glue or a simple stitch to secure them.
- Add Fasteners (Optional): For a more secure fit, you can attach velcro strips to the inside edges of the cover and the corresponding part of your AC unit, or simply sew in an elastic band around the inner edge if you’re comfortable with a sewing machine. This helps the cover stay in place.
- Drape and Secure: Place the fabric over your AC unit. If you used elastic or velcro, fasten it. Otherwise, ensure the fabric is draped neatly and securely.
2. The Padded Fabric Cover
This option adds a bit more insulation and a slightly more finished look. It’s still quite beginner-friendly but involves a little more sewing or gluing.
What You’ll Need:
- Outer fabric (e.g., cotton, linen, canvas).
- Inner padding (e.g., thin quilt batting, old fleece blanket, thin foam).
- Measuring tape.
- Scissors.
- Sewing machine or strong fabric glue.
- Pins.
- Optional: Ribbon, bias tape for a decorative edge, velcro or ties for closure.
Steps:
- Measure and Cut Fabric Pieces: Measure your AC unit as before. Cut two identical pieces for the front/sides and top from your outer fabric. Cut corresponding pieces from your inner padding material, making them slightly smaller so they don’t show through the outer fabric.
- Assemble the “Sandwich”: Lay one piece of outer fabric right side down. Place the corresponding padding piece on top. Lay the second outside fabric piece right side up on top of the padding. Pin generously to hold everything in place.
- Sew (or Glue) the Layers Together: Using your sewing machine or fabric glue, sew or glue along the outer edges of your fabric, creating a seam. You’ll want to leave one side open for inserting the AC unit.
- Add Finishing Touches (Optional): You can add bias tape around the edges for a professional finish. If you want to be able to tie or secure the cover, attach ribbons or velcro to the open edges now.
- Insert and Close: Carefully slide your AC unit into the cover. If you added ties or velcro, secure them.
3. The Wooden AC Cover (More Advanced DIY)
For those who want a sturdier, more decorative solution that can even double as a small shelf or plant stand, a wooden cover is a great choice. This project requires more tools and basic carpentry skills.
What You’ll Need:
- Plywood or lumber (e.g., pine, cedar) in desired dimensions.
- Saw (hand saw, circular saw, or miter saw).
- Measuring tape.
- Screws or wood glue.
- Drill with pilot bit.
- Sandpaper.
- Paint or stain (optional).
- Ventilation material (e.g., decorative metal grates, louvered inserts, or holes drilled in a pattern).
- Safety glasses.
Design Considerations for Wooden Covers:
A well-designed wooden AC cover needs to allow for proper airflow. You absolutely must ensure the front of the unit, where the air intake typically is, remains unobstructed or has ample ventilation. The back of the unit, which faces into the room, can be more decorative.
Basic Construction Steps:
- Measure Accurately: Measure the height, width, and depth of your AC unit. Also, measure the height of the part of the unit that protrudes from the window.
- Plan Your Design: Decide on the shape and size. A simple box shape is easiest. Consider if you want it to sit in front of the unit, or enclose it more fully. Crucially, plan for ventilation! A common approach is to build a box that covers the front and sides, with an open back, or to incorporate decorative grates for airflow. Some people build a larger box with slats or holes.
- Cut Your Wood: Based on your measurements and design, cut your plywood or lumber. You’ll likely need pieces for the top, front, and sides.
- Assemble the Box: Pre-drill pilot holes to prevent wood splitting. Assemble the pieces using wood glue and screws. Ensure all corners are square. For a front cover, you’ll create a U-shape. For a fully enclosed look, you’ll create a full box, but remember that ventilation is paramount.
- Incorporate Ventilation: If you’re not using slats, you’ll need to cut holes or create openings for airflow. This is critical for the unit’s performance and longevity. Consider adding decorative metal grates from a hardware store. These can be secured with screws and significantly improve aesthetics while ensuring air moves freely. You can find beautiful options at a place like The Home Depot’s ventilation hardware section.
- Sand and Finish: Sand all edges smooth. Apply paint or stain if desired, allowing it to dry completely.
- Install: Carefully position the wooden cover. Ensure it doesn’t obstruct the unit’s controls or fan. For front-facing covers, you might want to add small L-brackets or sturdy velcro to keep it from tipping.
Important Note on Wooden Covers: Always prioritize airflow. Overheating can damage your AC unit and be a fire hazard. If you are unsure about adequate ventilation, stick to fabric covers or consult a professional.
DIY AC Cover Materials: Pros and Cons
Choosing the right material impacts durability, ease of use, and aesthetics. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Material | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Sheets/Fabric | Very inexpensive, easy to cut and sew, readily available. | Less durable, can cling to dust, offers minimal insulation. | Beginners, quick protection, temporary solutions. |
| Waterproof Tarp | Excellent protection from moisture and outdoor elements (if storing unit partially outdoors). | Can look utilitarian, may not be breathable (risk of condensation). | Outdoor unit storage, harsh weather protection. |
| Quilted Fabric/Batting | Adds insulation, more structured, better protection against drafts. | Requires more sewing skill, can be bulkier. | Improving insulation, creating a more finished look. |
| Plywood/Lumber | Durable, can be decorative, offers sturdy protection, can integrate shelves. | Requires tools and skill, heavier, requires careful planning for ventilation. | Permanent or semi-permanent solutions, aesthetic upgrades. |
DIY Troubleshooting & Tips
Here are some common questions and tips to make your DIY AC cover project a success:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How do I make sure my AC cover doesn’t block airflow?
A1: Always measure your unit carefully and ensure the cover is designed so that the air intake (usually the front grille) and the main vents are not completely blocked. For fabric covers, leave them slightly loose. For wooden covers, incorporate plenty of gaps, slats, or use decorative grates for ventilation, especially on the front and sides. Your AC needs to breathe!
Q2: Can I use a plastic bag as a cover?
A2: While a thick plastic tarp can offer protection, avoid using thin plastic bags. They are not durable, can tear easily, and can trap moisture, potentially leading to mold or mildew. A heavy-duty waterproof fabric or tarp is a better choice if you need moisture protection.
Q3: How do I clean my DIY AC cover?
A3: Fabric covers can usually be machine washed on a gentle cycle and air-dried. For wooden covers, wipe them down with a damp cloth. If you’ve painted or stained them, they can be cleaned similarly to furniture.
Q4: My fabric cover keeps falling off. What can I do?
A4: You can add velcro strips along the edges of the cover and the unit, use elastic in the hem to create a snug fit, or attach fabric ties to secure it. For wooden covers, consider using small L-brackets or command strips to secure them if they are front-facing and prone to tipping.
Q5: Can I make a cover that looks good with my decor?
A5: Absolutely! For fabric covers, choose fabrics that complement your room’s color scheme. For wooden covers, you can paint or stain them to match your furniture or trim. You can also get creative with decorative grates or cut-out patterns.
Q6: Do I need to cover my AC unit when it’s not in use during summer breezes?
A6: Typically, no. Air conditioners are designed to be exposed to outdoor air when they are in use. Covers are primarily for when the unit is completely turned off and not expected to be used for an extended period, especially during the off-season when it’s exposed to dust and potential drafts.
Tips for Success:
- Measure Twice, Cut Once: This old adage is key for any DIY project, especially when fitting something around an appliance.
- Consider Ventilation First: This cannot be stressed enough. Your AC unit needs to breathe. Improper airflow can lead to overheating and costly damage. For wooden designs, look up examples of ventilation patterns. The ENERGY STAR website offers insights into how air conditioners function, which can help inform your ventilation design.
- Test Fit: Before permanently attaching or finalizing your cover, hold it up to the unit or do a test fit to ensure it drapes correctly and doesn’t interfere with controls.
- Material Choice: Think about the environment. If your AC unit faces directly outside and is exposed to rain, a waterproof or water-resistant material is essential. For mostly interior protection, breathable fabrics are great.
- Cleanliness is Key: Before covering, give your AC unit a quick wipe-down to prevent trapping dust you’d otherwise have to clean later. Vacuum the area around it too.
Creative Decorative Touches for Your DIY Cover
Once you’ve mastered the basic construction, why not add a personal touch? Even simple fabric can be elevated:
- Pom-Pom Trim: Add a playful flair with colorful pom-pom trim glued or sewn along the edges of a fabric cover.
- Fabric Paint or Stencils: Personalize a plain fabric cover with fabric paints or stencils. You could even paint a faux wood grain!
- Decorative Grates: As mentioned for wooden covers, decorative metal grates can add an industrial chic look to fabric covers as well – just attach them securely over the main ventilation areas.
- Fabric Appliques: Sew or iron on fabric appliques to match your room’s theme – think floral patterns for a botanical vibe, or geometric shapes for a modern look.
Remember, the goal is to protect and, if desired, beautify. Your DIY skills and creativity are the only limits!
Conclusion
Creating your own indoor air conditioner cover is a rewarding DIY project that offers practical benefits and a chance to get creative. Whether you opt for a quick and easy fabric wrap, a more insulated padded cover, or a sturdy custom-built wooden enclosure, you’re taking a smart step towards protecting your AC unit, improving your home’s energy efficiency by reducing drafts, and enhancing your living space’s aesthetics. With these simple guides and tips, you can easily craft a solution that suits your needs and skill level. So go ahead, banish that dusty, unsightly unit, and enjoy a tidier, more comfortable home – all thanks to your own clever hands!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Continued
Q7: When should I put the cover on and take it off?
A7: Generally, you’ll put your AC cover on after the cooling season ends, usually in the fall or when temperatures consistently drop below what you need AC for. You’ll remove it in the spring when you anticipate needing to cool your home again.
