With cold weather on the horizon in Columbia, 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s created to resist bad} weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or get moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are good to use a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard waste 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 power to cool your house.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Watts Electric & AC heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at essential parts. This often allows us to identify issues before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on selecting the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your equipment and several inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your system, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting home for animals, 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 material 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 unrestricted 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 stop leaves, nuts and other rubbish from falling into your unit.
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 build up inside your system can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is approaching in Columbia. 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, Watts Electric & AC provides help. Give us a call at 601-736-7362 or schedule an appointment online.