With cold weather approaching in Florissant, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s created to resist bad} weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.
While putting on 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 build up and lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your home.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from B & B Heating & Cooling heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and take a close look at critical pieces. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few tips on choosing the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap condensation inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your AC an inviting home for rodents, 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 moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of fabric is one that lets in air, 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 put it on.
Cover Your Air Conditioner During Summer
A lightweight mesh cover during the summer allows your air conditioner to run freely 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 block leaves, nuts and other debris from falling 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 a snowstorm is on the way. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is coming in Florissant. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, 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, B & B Heating & Cooling provides assistance. Give us a call at 314-325-7552 or schedule an appointment online.