With cold weather approaching in Arlington, 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 engineered to resist bad} weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or turn moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is your own 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 debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your house.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Service Max Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect essential components. This often allows us to pinpoint problems before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple ideas on choosing the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your unit and a few inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your AC an inviting area for animals, 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 condensation to build up inside your system. The best type of material is one that allows airflow, 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 unrestricted 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 heavy snow is approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a strong storm is coming in Arlington. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, affecting 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 offers assistance. Give us a call at 360-255-5857 or schedule an appointment online.