With cold weather coming in Erie, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist bad weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Additional wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two times of year that are ideal 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 build up and block your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your residence.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Patterson & Stirling heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and take a close look at important pieces. This often allows us to spot issues before they begin.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple tips on choosing the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your system and a few inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting place for vermin, which could sever 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 air conditioner. The best type of clot is one that’s breathable, 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 install 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 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 falling 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 on the way. Snow and ice that collect inside your AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is coming in Erie. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, impacting 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, Patterson & Stirling gives help. Give us a call at 814-308-0416 or schedule an appointment online.
