With cold weather approaching in Dresden, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s engineered 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 unit can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two seasons that are good to use 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 obstruct your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your house.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from McFadden Heating & Cooling heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and take a close look at important parts. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on selecting the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your unit and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your unit, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your system an inviting place for vermin, 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 impede air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of clot is one that allows airflow, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner
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 unrestricted while keeping grass clippings and sticks out.
Related: How Do I Know if My Air Conditioner is Running Properly?
Cover Your Air Conditioner During Fall
A breathable canvas cover will block leaves, nuts and other debris from falling 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 system can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is coming in Dresden. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, impacting 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 assistance. Give us a call at 519-683-2339 or schedule an appointment online.
