With cold weather coming in Mechanicsburg, you may be wondering 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 designed to resist inclement weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good, because they can trap condensation. Additional wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods that are ideal 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 pile up and block your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your home.
Wanting 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 unit, and inspect essential components. This often allows us to pinpoint problems before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few suggestions on choosing the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and a few inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap water inside your unit, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your AC an inviting area 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 moisture to build up inside your unit. The best type of fabric is one that allows airflow, 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 install it.
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 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 waste from falling 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 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 air conditioner if a bad storm is approaching in Mechanicsburg. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, altering 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, H & H Service Company offers help. Give us a call at 717-220-4502 or schedule an appointment online.