With cold weather on the horizon in Swanton, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist severe weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap condensation. Additional wetness inside your system can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two periods that are great for using a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and block your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your house.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Northwest Services heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect important components. This often allows us to spot issues before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on selecting the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your equipment and a couple of inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your system a welcoming area for vermin, which could sever wires.
Related: What New Homeowners Need to Know About Their Air Conditioner
Don’t Use Plastic or Vinyl Covers
Plastic or vinyl covers block air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your unit. The best type of fabric is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When It’s Time to Cover your AC
If you decide to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to use it.
Cover Your Air Conditioner During Summer
A lightweight mesh cover during the summer allows your air conditioner to run smoothly while keeping grass clippings and sticks out.
Related: How Do I Know if My Air Conditioner is Running Properly?
Cover Your Air Conditioner During Fall
A breathable canvas cover will stop leaves, nuts and other waste from falling into your equipment.
Related: Tips for Cleaning Your System
Cover Your Air Conditioner Before Severe Weather
You can temporarily cover your air conditioner in the winter when you know heavy snow is approaching. Snow and ice that collect inside your AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is approaching in Swanton. Hail can critically damage your system’s fins, altering efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Help Your AC System Run Efficiently
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Northwest Services gives help. Give us a call at 419-548-5017 or schedule an appointment online.