With cold weather approaching in Savage, 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 sturdy piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist bad weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap moisture. Additional wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two seasons that are good to use a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more energy to cool your house.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect essential components. This often allows us to identify issues before they begin.
Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few suggestions on selecting the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your equipment and several inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy 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 block air, which could cause condensation 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 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 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 getting 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 heavy snow is approaching. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is coming in Savage. Hail can critically 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, Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning offers help. Give us a call at 952-373-0377 or schedule an appointment online.
