With cold weather on the horizon in Mechanicsburg, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s created to resist bad weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal 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 waste 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 electricity to cool your residence.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from H & H Service Company heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at essential components. This often allows us to identify trouble before they begin.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few tips on selecting the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal components. It could also make your AC an inviting home for animals, 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 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 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 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 debris from getting 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 collect inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a severe storm is imminent in Mechanicsburg. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, affecting efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Make Sure Your AC Is Always Covered
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, H & H Service Company provides assistance. Give us a call at 717-220-4502 or schedule an appointment online.
