With cold weather coming in Dresden, you may be thinking 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 engineered to withstand severe weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good, because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or get moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods that are ideal for using a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and obstruct your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your house.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from McFadden Heating & Cooling heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at essential pieces. This often allows us to identify issues before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few ideas on selecting the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and a few inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap water inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting home 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 stop air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your system. The best type of fabric 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 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 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 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 blizzard is coming. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner 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 AC if a bad storm is coming in Dresden. Hail can severely 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, McFadden Heating & Cooling gives help. Give us a call at 1-866-781-0111 or schedule an appointment online.