With cold weather on the horizon in Genoa, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist bad} weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap moisture. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two times of year that are great for using a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more power to cool your home.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Assured Appliance & Heating & Air heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine essential pieces. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on choosing the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your system, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy area 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 block air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your system. The best type of clot 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 want 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 stop leaves, nuts and other rubbish 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 snowstorm is on the way. Snow and ice that collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a bad storm is coming in Genoa. Hail can critically damage your system’s exterior, 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, Assured Appliance & Heating & Air provides assistance. Give us a call at 847-306-8990 or schedule an appointment online.
