Winter Prep

Prepare for the season your home actually has.

Winter care depends on your location, furniture and equipment. Use their instructions to decide what stays outside, what needs storage and whether a cover is appropriate.

Illustration of dry folded covers and cushions being stored on a sheltered porch
Seasonal care illustration. Follow the instructions for your furniture, equipment and cover.

  1. Start with storage instructions.

    Check the seasonal guidance for furniture and cushions before deciding to leave them outside. Clean only as directed and allow items to dry. If the manufacturer calls for indoor or sheltered storage, follow that requirement rather than assuming a cover replaces it.

  2. Check the fit for the stored arrangement.

    Measure the outermost width, depth and height of the item or arrangement as you intend to leave it. Compare the shape, bottom edge and fastening locations with the exact cover’s fitting instructions. Curved or L-shaped furniture may need a closer check.

    Prepare a measurement summary before exploring cover styles.

  3. Respect the cover’s weather limits.

    Follow the product’s directions for standing water, snow and changing weather. Do not assume a cover supports a particular snow load or provides protection in every winter condition. Recheck the fit, surfaces beneath it and fastening points, and reassess storage if conditions exceed the stated limits.

    Review the care and inspection checklist.

  4. Separate idle AC units from running heat pumps.

    Check your exact equipment model and its manufacturer’s seasonal instructions. Use a suitable cover only when the unit is off and the manufacturer allows covering. Remove the cover before operation.

    A heat pump may need to operate throughout winter. Do not cover a running heat pump. A seasonal change by itself is not a reason to cover equipment, and furniture-cover guidance does not establish safe AC use.