With cold weather on the horizon in Georgetown, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist bad weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap condensation. Additional wetness inside your unit can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two periods 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 obstruct your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more power to cool your home.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Miller Climate Control LLC heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine 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 tips on selecting the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your system and a few inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your AC a cozy home 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 impede air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your unit. The best type of material is one that allows airflow, 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 install 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 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 rubbish 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 accumulate inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a bad storm is approaching in Georgetown. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, 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, Miller Climate Control LLC provides help. Give us a call at 512-937-2001 or schedule an appointment online.
