With cold weather on the horizon in Florissant, 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s created to take on severe weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems, because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods that are great for using a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and block your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your house.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from B & B Heating & Cooling heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine important pieces. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several suggestions on picking the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your equipment and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your AC a welcoming area for animals, 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 block air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your unit. 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 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 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 waste from dropping into your system.
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 on the way. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is approaching in Florissant. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, affecting 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, B & B Heating & Cooling provides help. Give us a call at 314-325-7552 or schedule an appointment online.