With cold weather coming in Pflugerville, 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 strong piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist severe weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or turn moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are good to use 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 block your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more power to cool your house.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Evenaire Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine essential parts. 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 suggestions on selecting the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your unit and a couple of inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your AC an inviting place 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 impede air, which could cause water to build up inside your unit. The best type of clot is one that allows airflow, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When It’s Time to Cover your AC
If you choose 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 twigs out.
Related: How Do I Know if My Air Conditioner is Running Properly?
Cover Your Air Conditioner During Fall
A breathable canvas cover will block leaves, nuts and other waste from falling 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 a blizzard is approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and decreasing 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 Pflugerville. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, altering 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, Evenaire Heating & Air Conditioning provides help. Give us a call at 512-355-1482 or schedule an appointment online.
