With cold weather coming 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 sturdy piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist bad} weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap condensation. Additional wetness inside your unit can cause internal components to rust or turn moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods that are good to use 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. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your house.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Gee & Missler Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine essential parts. This often allows us to identify problems 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 best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your unit and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal components. It could also make your AC a cozy place 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 water to build up inside your unit. The best type of material is one that allows airflow, 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 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 stop leaves, nuts and other waste 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 approaching. Snow and ice that collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is imminent in Wyandotte. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, 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 provides aid. Give us a call at 734-284-1224 or schedule an appointment online.
