When winter arrives, keeping your air conditioner protected or finding a unit that provides both cooling and heating is essential. This guide features a selection of the best air conditioners with heating functions and winter covers for outdoor and window AC units. These products ensure your unit’s longevity during cold months and offer warmth when needed. Below is a summary table of the top picks.
| Product | Brand | Type | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable AC with Heat | BLACK+DECKER | Portable AC/Heater | Wi-Fi & Voice Control, 14,000 BTU Cooling & 12,000 BTU Heating |
| Whynter Portable AC & Heater Dual Hose | Whynter | Portable AC/Heater | Quiet Operation, Auto Drain Dehumidifier, 14,000 BTU Cooling |
| Luxiv Winter Window AC Cover | Luxiv | Outdoor AC Cover | 3-Layer Waterproof & Insulated Protection |
| Breeze Stop Surround Insulation Side Panels | Breeze Stop | Indoor Window AC Cover | 1″ Thick Foam Insulation in White Vinyl |
| yhslmh Winter AC Outside Unit Cover | yhslmh | Outdoor AC Cover | Waterproof, UV-Stabilized, Heavy Duty with Bungee Cords |
BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner with Heat
This four-in-one portable air conditioner offers 14,000 BTU cooling and 12,000 BTU heating, making it ideal for year-round use in rooms up to 700 sq. ft. It’s equipped with smart features that enable control through Wi-Fi, mobile apps, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant.
- Functions include air conditioning, heating, dehumidifying, and fan modes.
- Compact size and portability (16.5” x 14.06” x 27.09”) allow easy relocation.
- Follow Me Remote feature keeps the temperature consistent where you are.
Whynter Portable Air Conditioner 14,000 BTU & Heater
Winner of Good Housekeeping’s “Best Overall Portable Air Conditioner” award, this model cools rooms up to 500 sq. ft. Quiet operation at 51 dBA makes it bedroom-friendly. It includes a dual hose system and a built-in dehumidifier with an auto-drain function.
- Heating capability ideal for winter comfort.
- Eco-friendly with CFC-free refrigerants.
- Includes AC unit window installation kit.
Luxiv Winter Window Air Conditioner Cover
This cover offers ultimate winter protection with three layers of material—waterproof Oxford cloth, insulating pearl cotton, and an antifreeze aluminum foil liner. It’s built to shield window AC units from snow, ice, wind, and debris while helping keep indoor temperatures warmer.
- Snap buckle double-strap design prevents wind damage.
- High-temperature press glue seals seams for waterproofing and wind resistance.
- Designed to assist in insulating rooms by blocking cold air infiltration through the unit.
Breeze Stop Surround Insulation Side Panels
Designed for indoor use, these 1-inch thick insulating foam panels are covered in white flexible vinyl to improve your window AC unit’s insulation. They fit windows up to 36” wide and cover existing plastic pull-out sides without replacing them.
- Helps reduce heat transfer during winter, enhancing efficiency and indoor comfort.
- Panels must be cut to size with scissors to fit your window dimensions.
- Easy to install and remove for seasonal use.
yhslmh Winter Air Conditioner Covers for Outside Units
This heavy-duty outdoor cover protects central AC units from winter damage caused by snow, ice, wind, leaves, and debris. It features waterproof, UV-stabilized, and breathable tarpaulin material designed to resist rips and tears.
- Includes four robust bungee cords and metal hooks with plastic buckles for secure attachment.
- Helps prolong the life of your air conditioner by minimizing exposure to harsh elements.
- Easy to use and prevents cracking in freezing temperatures.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Air Conditioner or Cover for Winter
When selecting an air conditioner or protective cover for winter, consider the following key factors:
1. Type of Product Required
Decide if you need a portable air conditioner with heating capability for year-round climate control or a cover to protect your existing outdoor or window unit during the cold season.
2. Heating and Cooling Capacity
For portable units, examine BTU ratings for both cooling and heating. Ensure the capacity matches your room size—for example, 14,000 BTU is common for medium to large rooms.
3. Insulation and Weatherproofing Quality
If choosing a cover, look for multi-layer materials providing insulation, waterproofing, and windproofing. Heavy-duty fabrics such as Oxford cloth, vinyl, or tarpaulin enhance durability and protection.
4. Ease of Installation and Fit
Ensure covers have adjustable straps, bungee cords, or buckles for secure fitting, especially in windy locations. Side panels for indoor window AC units should be easy to customize for seamless installation.
5. Smart Features and Controls
Modern portable AC units may offer Wi-Fi connectivity, voice control via Alexa or Google Assistant, and smart apps for convenient operation remotely.
6. Maintenance Access
Covers with Velcro openings or easy-access flaps allow maintenance without full removal, saving time and hassle while keeping units protected.
7. Noise Level
Consider noise ratings (in dBA) if you will use the device in bedrooms or quiet spaces. Lower noise levels support a comfortable environment.
8. Environmental Considerations
Opt for units using eco-friendly refrigerants (CFC-free) to reduce environmental impact.
With these considerations, you can protect your air conditioner from winter damage or select a versatile unit to keep your home comfortable through all seasons.