With cold weather coming in Excelsior Springs, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s created to resist bad} weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Additional wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.
While using 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 rubbish 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 harder and may use more power to cool your house.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Colvin's Heating and Cooling heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine important parts. This often allows us to pinpoint issues before they begin.
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 right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your system and several inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your equipment, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your system an inviting place for animals, 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 impede air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your system. The best type of clot 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 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 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 stop leaves, nuts and other rubbish 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 snowstorm is on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is imminent in Excelsior Springs. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, 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, Colvin's Heating and Cooling provides assistance. Give us a call at 816-379-3918 or schedule an appointment online.
