With cold weather approaching in Kutztown and Breinigsville, 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist bad weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good, because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are good to use a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and block your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your home.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Moyer Total Indoor Comfort heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at important components. This often allows us to pinpoint issues before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few ideas on selecting the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your unit and several inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your AC 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 stop air, which could cause water to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of fabric 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 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 waste 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 heavy snow is coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system 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 system if a severe storm is approaching in Kutztown and Breinigsville. Hail can critically damage your system’s fins, 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, Moyer Total Indoor Comfort provides help. Give us a call at 484-646-3363 or schedule an appointment online.