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 tough piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist bad} weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap moisture. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are ideal for using a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and obstruct your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your home.
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 equipment, and inspect important components. This often allows us to pinpoint problems before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few ideas on picking the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your system and several inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap water inside your unit, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your AC an inviting place for vermin, which could eat through wires.
Related: What New Homeowners Need to Know About Their Air Conditioner
Don’t Use Plastic or Vinyl Covers
Plastic or vinyl covers impede air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your system. The best type of material is one that allows airflow, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When to Use an Air Conditioner Cover
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 unrestricted while keeping grass clippings and twigs out.
Related: How Do I Know if My Air Conditioner is Running Properly?
Cover Your Air Conditioner During Fall
A breathable canvas cover will halt leaves, nuts and other debris from dropping into your system.
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 a snowstorm is on the way. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a bad storm is approaching in Swanton. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, affecting 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 provides assistance. Give us a call at 419-548-5017 or schedule an appointment online.