With cold weather approaching in Cottonwood & Prescott, you may be wondering 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 created to resist severe weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two times of year that are good to use a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris 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 harder and may use more energy to cool your house.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Connolly Electric & Mechanical heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine essential parts. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide 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 encompass the top of your unit and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap water inside your equipment, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming place for rodents, 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 fabric is one that lets in air, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner
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 stop leaves, nuts and other waste from dropping 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 snowstorm is approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your system can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a strong storm is approaching in Cottonwood & Prescott. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, 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, Connolly Electric & Mechanical offers help. Give us a call at 928-251-4327 or schedule an appointment online.
