With cold weather on the horizon in Marshalltown, 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 sturdy piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist severe weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good 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 a personal choice, there are two periods 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 accumulate and lower your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your home.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from B & G HVAC heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine critical components. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.
Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple ideas on picking the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your equipment and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your AC an inviting home for rodents, 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 moisture to build up inside your unit. The best type of material is one that lets in air, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner
If you want 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 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 waste from falling 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 collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a bad storm is approaching in Marshalltown. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, 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, B & G HVAC offers aid. Give us a call at 641-316-3360 or schedule an appointment online.
