With cold weather coming in Lancaster, you may be thinking 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 designed to resist bad} weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or become moldy.
While installing 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 debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and block your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more power to cool your home.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Fairfield Heating & Cooling heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at important components. This often allows us to identify issues before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several suggestions on selecting the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your equipment and several inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy home for vermin, 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 impede air, which could cause water to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of fabric is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When to Use an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide 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 twigs 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 rubbish 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 heavy snow is approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is coming in Lancaster. Hail can critically 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, Fairfield Heating & Cooling offers help. Give us a call at 740-331-4331 or schedule an appointment online.
