With cold weather coming in Troy, you may be thinking 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 heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap condensation. Additional 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 seasons that are great for using a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build 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? Regular AC maintenance from Edington Heating & Cooling Inc heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at essential 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 several tips on selecting the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your equipment and a few inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap water inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your system an inviting 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 impede air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of material is one that lets in air, 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 freely 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 block leaves, nuts and other debris from getting 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 air conditioner can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is imminent in Troy. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, 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 gives aid. Give us a call at 937-558-9478 or schedule an appointment online.
