With cold weather approaching in Mechanicsburg, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist severe} weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year 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 build up and block your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your house.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from H & H Service Company heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and inspect essential pieces. 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 few ideas on picking the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your equipment and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your system a cozy place for vermin, 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 air conditioner. The best type of material 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 choose 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 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 system.
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 approaching. Snow and ice that collect inside your AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is approaching in Mechanicsburg. 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, H & H Service Company offers aid. Give us a call at 717-220-4502 or schedule an appointment online.
