With cold weather on the horizon in Florissant and St. Charles, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist bad weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or become moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is your own 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 rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and lower your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your residence.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from B & B 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.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few suggestions on picking the best 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 unit, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your system a welcoming home for vermin, 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 stop 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 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 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 waste from dropping 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 heavy snow is coming. Snow and ice that collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is coming in Florissant and St. Charles. Hail can critically damage your system’s exterior, altering efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Help Keep Your AC Protected
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, B & B Heating & Cooling provides aid. Give us a call at 314-325-7552 or schedule an appointment online.