With cold weather approaching in Troy, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist bad weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues, because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are good to use 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. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more energy to cool your home.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Edington Heating & Cooling Inc heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at important pieces. This often allows us to spot issues before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple tips on selecting the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your equipment and a few inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming area 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 block air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of cloth is one that lets in air, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When to Use an Air Conditioner Cover
If you want 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 freely while keeping grass clippings and branches 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 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 heavy snow is on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is coming in Troy. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, impacting 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, Edington Heating & Cooling Inc provides aid. Give us a call at 937-558-9478 or schedule an appointment online.