With cold weather approaching in Plover, 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist severe} weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Additional wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods that are great for using a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more power to cool your residence.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Point Heating & Cooling heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine critical pieces. This often allows us to spot issues before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple tips on choosing the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your unit and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your AC an inviting area for animals, which could sever 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 system. The best type of clot 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 decide to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to use it.
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 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 debris from getting 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 blizzard is coming. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is imminent in Plover. 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, Point Heating & Cooling offers help. Give us a call at 715-504-0533 or schedule an appointment online.