With cold weather approaching in Wyandotte, you may be thinking 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 inclement weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Additional wetness inside your system can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods that are great for using 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 power to cool your house.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Gee & Missler Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and take a close look at essential components. This often allows us to spot 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 a couple tips on choosing the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your equipment and several inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your system an inviting 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 impede air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your system. 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 It’s Time to Cover your AC
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 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 halt 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 blizzard is on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a bad storm is coming in Wyandotte. 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, Gee & Missler Heating & Air Conditioning offers assistance. Give us a call at 734-284-1224 or schedule an appointment online.
