With cold weather coming in Booneville, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist bad} weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your unit can cause internal components to rust or turn moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are ideal for using 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 accumulate and lower your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more power to cool your house.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Booneville Heating & Cooling heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and inspect essential pieces. This often allows us to spot issues before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several tips on picking the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your unit and a few inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy area for rodents, 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 water to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of material 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 choose 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 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 stop leaves, nuts and other debris from getting into your unit.
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 collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is coming in Booneville. 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, Booneville Heating & Cooling offers assistance. Give us a call at 662-269-8716 or schedule an appointment online.
