With cold weather approaching in Bloomfield, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s created to resist severe} weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal components to rust or turn moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are ideal for using a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more electricity 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 professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine critical parts. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on choosing the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your system and a few inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your system, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your AC a welcoming area for animals, 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 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 decide to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to put it on.
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 stop leaves, nuts and other debris from falling into your equipment.
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 approaching. Snow and ice that collect inside your AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a strong storm is approaching in Bloomfield. Hail can severely 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, Stanford Heating & Cooling offers assistance. Give us a call at 812-825-8695 or schedule an appointment online.
