With cold weather on the horizon in Plover, you may be thinking 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 resist inclement weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or get moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two seasons 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 obstruct your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more power to cool your home.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Point Heating & Cooling heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect important pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several suggestions on selecting the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your system and a few inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your system an inviting home for vermin, 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 stop air, which could cause water to build up inside your unit. 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 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 smoothly 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 stop leaves, nuts and other debris from dropping into your equipment.
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, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is coming in Plover. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, affecting 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, Point Heating & Cooling provides assistance. Give us a call at 715-504-0533 or schedule an appointment online.