With cold weather coming in Auburn, 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 strong piece of equipment. It’s created to resist bad weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap condensation. Additional wetness inside your system can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are great for using 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 build up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your home.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Forster Heating heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and inspect essential components. This often allows us to identify issues before they begin.
How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on choosing the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap water inside your equipment, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your system a welcoming home for vermin, 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 condensation to build up inside your unit. The best type of fabric is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When It’s Time to Cover your AC
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 smoothly 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 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 heavy snow is coming. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is imminent in Auburn. Hail can critically damage your system’s coils, 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, Forster Heating provides aid. Give us a call at 530-885-8081 or schedule an appointment online.
