With cold weather approaching in Carpentersville, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist inclement weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap moisture. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are great for using a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your home.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Controlled Comfort HVAC heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect important parts. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.
How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on picking the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your unit and several inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting area for vermin, which could eat through 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 water 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 decide 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 smoothly 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 rubbish 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 heavy snow is on the way. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming 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 imminent in Carpentersville. Hail can critically 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, Controlled Comfort HVAC gives assistance. Give us a call at 224-412-8308 or schedule an appointment online.
