With cold weather on the horizon in Troy, you may be wondering 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 excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are good to use a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your house.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Edington Heating & Cooling Inc heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine critical components. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on picking the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your system and a few inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your AC a welcoming area 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 water to build up inside your system. The best type of fabric 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 install 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 block leaves, nuts and other rubbish 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 collect inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a bad storm is imminent in Troy. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, affecting efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Help Keep Your AC Protected
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Edington Heating & Cooling Inc provides help. Give us a call at 937-558-9478 or schedule an appointment online.
