With cold weather approaching in Eastland, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist inclement} weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap moisture. Additional wetness inside your system can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two seasons that are ideal for using 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 accumulate and block your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more electricity to cool your residence.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from J & J Air Conditioning heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at critical pieces. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on selecting the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your equipment and a few inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy area 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 stop air, which could cause water to build up inside your unit. 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 decide 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 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 halt leaves, nuts and other waste 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 heavy snow is coming. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a bad storm is coming in Eastland. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, 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, J & J Air Conditioning provides help. Give us a call at 254-355-3833 or schedule an appointment online.
