With cold weather approaching in Monroe, 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 inclement weather, including intense temperatures and heavy 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 become moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual 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 obstruct your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more power to cool your house.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Lanz Furnace and Fireplace heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine essential components. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.
How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few 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 system and a couple of inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your system a cozy 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 moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of clot is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When It’s Time to Cover your AC
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 unrestricted 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 block leaves, nuts and other debris 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 a blizzard is coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is coming in Monroe. Hail can critically 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, Lanz Furnace and Fireplace offers aid. Give us a call at 608-291-3606 or schedule an appointment online.
