With cold weather on the horizon in Genoa, 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 created to resist severe weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or become moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods that are ideal for using a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more electricity to cool your house.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Assured Appliance & Heating & Air heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine essential components. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.
Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on picking the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your equipment and a few inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your system an inviting 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 water to build up inside your system. The best type of material 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 choose 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 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 stop leaves, nuts and other waste from dropping 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 coming. Snow and ice that collect inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is imminent in Genoa. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, affecting efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Make Sure Your AC Is Always Covered
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Assured Appliance & Heating & Air provides aid. Give us a call at 847-306-8990 or schedule an appointment online.
