With cold weather on the horizon in Georgetown, 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 sturdy piece of equipment. It’s designed to withstand severe weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems, because they can trap moisture. Additional 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 periods that are good to use a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and block your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your residence.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Miller Climate Control LLC heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine essential parts. This often allows us to identify issues before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on picking the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your equipment and a couple of inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap condensation inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your system an inviting home for vermin, which could chew 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 moisture to build up inside your unit. The best type of material is one that lets in air, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When to Use an Air Conditioner Cover
If you want 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 sticks 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 debris from getting 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 approaching. Snow and ice that collect inside your air conditioner 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, 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, Miller Climate Control LLC gives assistance. Give us a call at 512-937-2001 or schedule an appointment online.