With cold weather on the horizon in Thedford, you may be questioning 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 engineered to resist inclement weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap condensation. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or become moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two periods 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 pile up and lower your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your home.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect important pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint issues before they begin.
Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several tips on selecting the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your equipment and a couple of inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap water inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting place for rodents, 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 condensation to build up inside your unit. The best type of clot is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner
If you choose to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to put it on.
Cover Your Air Conditioner During Summer
A lightweight mesh cover during the summer allows your air conditioner to run freely 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 block leaves, nuts and other rubbish from falling 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 blizzard is on the way. Snow and ice that collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a strong storm is approaching in Thedford. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, 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, Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning gives help. Give us a call at 519-296-4437 or schedule an appointment online.