With cold weather coming in Bloomfield, 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 strong piece of equipment. It’s designed to withstand inclement weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good, because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two periods that are great for using 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 build up and block your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more energy to cool your house.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Stanford Heating & Cooling heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect essential parts. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble 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 few ideas on selecting the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your equipment and a couple of inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy place for animals, 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 water to build up inside your unit. The best type of material is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When to Use an Air Conditioner Cover
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 smoothly 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 waste from dropping into your unit.
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 approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is imminent in Bloomfield. Hail can critically 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, Stanford Heating & Cooling offers aid. Give us a call at 812-825-8695 or schedule an appointment online.