With cold weather approaching in Zelienople, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s designed to withstand severe weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems, because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two times of year that are ideal for using a cover for a lengthy 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. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more energy to cool your residence.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Knoechel Heating Company heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine essential parts. This often allows us to identify issues before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on choosing 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 few inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your system, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your AC a cozy area 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 impede air, which could cause water to build up inside your unit. The best type of fabric is one that allows airflow, 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 unrestricted 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 rubbish 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 on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your system 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 AC if a bad storm is approaching in Zelienople. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, 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, Knoechel Heating Company gives help. Give us a call at 724-425-5852 or schedule an appointment online.