With cold weather on the horizon in Zelienople, you may be wondering 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 severe weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.
While using 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 build up and lower your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more energy to cool your house.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Knoechel Heating heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and inspect critical pieces. This often allows us to identify problems 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 couple tips on choosing the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your unit and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner 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 block air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of clot is one that lets in air, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When It’s Time to Cover your AC
If you decide 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 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 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 a blizzard is coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your air conditioner 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 bad storm is approaching in Zelienople. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, affecting efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Make Sure Your AC Is Always Covered
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Knoechel Heating gives aid. Give us a call at 724-425-5852 or schedule an appointment online.