With cold weather on the horizon in Athol, you may be wondering 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 created to resist inclement} weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or become moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two seasons that are great for using a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and lower your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more power to cool your home.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Alpine Summit Heating & Cooling heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect essential parts. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple tips on picking the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming home for vermin, 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 impede air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your unit. The best type of clot 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 freely 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 debris from dropping 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 a blizzard is on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is coming in Athol. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, impacting 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, Alpine Summit Heating & Cooling gives help. Give us a call at 208-561-1226 or schedule an appointment online.
