Winter is here, and it’s time to do the last minute weatherizing of your home. While many homeowners cover their air conditioners this time of year, there really no need. Kevin Van Haaften, with Van Haaften Plumbing and Heating in Pella says that new air conditioners are designed to withstand winter weather extremes with no damage. The only reason to cover your air conditioner is to help preserve surface coloration. One thing that very much needs to be done however, is to unhook your garden hoses from the faucet. Van Haaften says that they respond to dozens of breaks and damaged faucets each year where hoses are not disconnected and water pipes freeze.