With cold weather approaching in South Beloit and Belvidere, you may be wondering 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 created to resist severe weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal pieces to rust or turn moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods 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 pile up and lower your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your residence.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and inspect critical components. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.
How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few ideas on choosing the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your system, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your system a welcoming place for animals, 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 air conditioner. The best type of material is one that’s breathable, 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 unrestricted 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 debris 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 blizzard is approaching. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a bad storm is coming in South Beloit and Belvidere. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, altering 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, Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc offers assistance. Give us a call at 877-389-2465 or schedule an appointment online.
