With cold weather approaching in Lawrence, you may be wondering 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 created to resist bad weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Additional wetness inside your unit can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods that are good to use a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your residence.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Scott Temperature heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine important pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on selecting the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your equipment and a few inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your AC a cozy home for rodents, which could chew 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 moisture to build up inside your system. 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 You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner
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 freely 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 halt leaves, nuts and other rubbish from dropping 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, breaking condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a bad storm is coming in Lawrence. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, affecting efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Help Keep Your AC Protected
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Scott Temperature gives assistance. Give us a call at 785-269-0465 or schedule an appointment online.