With cold weather approaching in Reinholds, 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 strong piece of equipment. It’s created to withstand severe weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good, because they can trap moisture. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods 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 pile up and lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your home.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from County Line Mechanical LLC heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at essential parts. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple ideas on choosing the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your system and a few inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy home for rodents, 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 stop air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your unit. The best type of fabric 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 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 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 debris from dropping 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 accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a strong storm is approaching in Reinholds. Hail can critically damage your system’s coils, affecting 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, County Line Mechanical LLC gives assistance. Give us a call at 717-216-0846 or schedule an appointment online.