With cold weather coming in Pflugerville, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist severe} weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap moisture. Additional wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are good to use 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 accumulate and block your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your residence.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Evenaire Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and take a close look at important components. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on choosing the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, 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 water inside your unit, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your AC an inviting home for rodents, 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 stop air, which could cause water to build up inside your system. 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 to Use an Air Conditioner Cover
If you want 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 unrestricted 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 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 snowstorm is coming. Snow and ice that build up inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a severe storm is imminent in Pflugerville. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, impacting 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, Evenaire Heating & Air Conditioning provides aid. Give us a call at 512-355-1482 or schedule an appointment online.
