With cold weather approaching in Arlington, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist severe weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good, because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or get moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual 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 waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more energy to cool your home.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Service Max Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at important parts. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.
Schedule service now
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few ideas on choosing the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your unit and a few inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal components. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting place for vermin, 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 impede air, which could cause water to build up inside your unit. The best type of cloth 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 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 twigs 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 rubbish 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 collect inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is coming in Arlington. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, 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, Service Max Heating & Air Conditioning gives assistance. Give us a call at 360-255-5857 or schedule an appointment online.