With cold weather coming in Crown Point, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s created to resist inclement weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap moisture. Additional wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are ideal for using 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 lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your home.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Struven Heating & Cooling heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine critical parts. This often allows us to spot issues before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on choosing the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your unit and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your system a cozy home 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 block air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your system. 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 It’s Time to Cover your AC
If you choose 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 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 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 a snowstorm is approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is approaching in Crown Point. Hail can critically damage your system’s fins, altering efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Make Sure Your AC Is Always Covered
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Struven Heating & Cooling gives assistance. Give us a call at 219-292-0956 or schedule an appointment online.