With cold weather coming in Georgetown, you may be thinking 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 resist severe} weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential 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 your own choice, there are two seasons that are good to use a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and obstruct your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more energy to cool your house.
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 unit, and inspect important components. This often allows us to pinpoint problems 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 selecting the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your equipment and a few inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting area for vermin, 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 block air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of fabric 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 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 approaching. Snow and ice that collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is imminent in Georgetown. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, altering 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 offers aid. Give us a call at 512-937-2001 or schedule an appointment online.
