With cold weather approaching in Georgetown, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s created to resist inclement weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or get moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are good to use a cover for a long 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. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more power to cool your home.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Miller Climate Control LLC heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and inspect critical parts. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine 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 surround the top of your unit and a couple of inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy place for animals, 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 stop air, which could cause water to build up inside your unit. The best type of fabric 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 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 a snowstorm is on the way. Snow and ice that collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is coming in Georgetown. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, affecting 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, Miller Climate Control LLC offers assistance. Give us a call at 512-937-2001 or schedule an appointment online.
