With cold weather coming in Crystal and Twin Cities, 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 bad weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal pieces to rust or turn moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are ideal for using a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more power to cool your house.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from GV Heating & Air heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect essential pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint issues before they begin.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several suggestions on picking the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your equipment and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your AC an inviting area 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 air conditioner. 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 use it.
Cover Your Air Conditioner During Summer
A lightweight mesh cover during the summer allows your air conditioner to run smoothly 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 accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a bad storm is imminent in Crystal and Twin Cities. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, 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, GV Heating & Air provides help. Give us a call at 763-535-2000 or schedule an appointment online.
