With cold weather on the horizon in Athol, you may be wondering 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 designed to resist inclement weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are good to use 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 block your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your residence.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Alpine Summit Heating & Cooling heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect important pieces. 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 a couple ideas on choosing the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your equipment and a couple of inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your AC a welcoming home for rodents, 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 unit. 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 You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner
If you choose to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to put it on.
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 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 stop leaves, nuts and other rubbish from dropping 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 blizzard is on the way. Snow and ice that collect inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is approaching in Athol. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, impacting efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Help Keep Your AC Protected
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Alpine Summit Heating & Cooling offers aid. Give us a call at 208-561-1226 or schedule an appointment online.
