With cold weather approaching in Wyandotte, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s created to resist bad} weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your unit can cause internal pieces to rust or turn moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two times of year that are ideal for using a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and block your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your house.
Wanting 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 equipment, and take a close look at critical parts. This often allows us to identify trouble 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 choosing the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your unit and a few inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap water inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your AC an inviting place for rodents, which could chew wires.
Related: What New Homeowners Need to Know About Their Air Conditioner
Don’t Use Plastic or Vinyl Covers
Plastic or vinyl covers block air, which could cause water to build up inside your unit. The best type of fabric 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 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 branches 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 falling 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 coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is imminent in Wyandotte. Hail can seriously 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 gives aid. Give us a call at 734-284-1224 or schedule an appointment online.
