With cold weather approaching in Marshfield, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist inclement weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is your own 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 rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and lower your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your home.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from House of Heating Incorporated heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect important pieces. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.
Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several tips on selecting the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your unit and several inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your system an inviting home for rodents, 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 condensation to build up inside your system. The best type of fabric 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 want to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to install it.
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 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 halt leaves, nuts and other debris from dropping into your system.
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 coming. Snow and ice that collect inside your AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is imminent in Marshfield. 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, House of Heating Incorporated offers aid. Give us a call at 715-384-3163 or schedule an appointment online.