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 sturdy piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist inclement} weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap condensation. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is a personal 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 rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and block your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more energy to cool your residence.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Controlled Comfort HVAC heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine essential parts. 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 a couple ideas on choosing the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your equipment and a few inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your system a cozy place for vermin, 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 impede air, which could cause water to build up inside your unit. The best type of material 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 decide 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 stop leaves, nuts and other waste from dropping 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 collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is approaching in Carpentersville. Hail can critically damage your system’s fins, altering 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, Controlled Comfort HVAC offers aid. Give us a call at 224-412-8308 or schedule an appointment online.
