With cold weather approaching in Longview, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist bad} weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap moisture. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are great for using a cover for a long 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. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your residence.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Goode Bros AC & Heating heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, 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 suggestions on choosing the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your equipment and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap water inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting place 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 system. The best type of material is one that’s breathable, 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 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 block 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 a snowstorm is approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a strong storm is approaching in Longview. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, 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, Goode Bros AC & Heating offers help. Give us a call at 903-284-2612 or schedule an appointment online.
