With cold weather approaching in Circleville, 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 sturdy piece of equipment. It’s created to resist bad weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or turn moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two seasons that are good to use 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 build up and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your house.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Stephen Hurst Pack Heating and Cooling heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine critical pieces. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.
Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on selecting the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your unit and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap water inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal components. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy home for rodents, 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 impede air, which could cause condensation 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 It’s Time to Cover your AC
If you decide 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 smoothly 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 rubbish from getting 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 on the way. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a strong storm is coming in Circleville. Hail can critically 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, Stephen Hurst Pack Heating and Cooling offers aid. Give us a call at 740-474-5940 or schedule an appointment online.