Do I Need to Cover My Air Conditioner?
With cold weather coming in Abilene, 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 take on inclement weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good, because they can trap moisture. Additional wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or become moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are great for using a cover for an extended 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 harder and may use more energy to cool your home.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Abilene Air-Tech Inc heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect important parts. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple tips on picking the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your system and several inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially corroding metal components. It could also make your system a cozy home 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 block air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your unit. 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 to Use an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide 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 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 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 on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is approaching in Abilene. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, affecting 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, Abilene Air-Tech Inc gives help. Give us a call at (325) 692-5850 or schedule an appointment online.
Don't wait until your AC breaks down - get a professional maintenance check now.
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