With cold weather approaching in Lexington, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s created to take on severe weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems, because they can trap condensation. 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 seasons that are great for using a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris 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 longer and may use more electricity to cool your residence.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from James Heating & A/C, Inc heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine important pieces. This often allows us to identify 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 suggestions on choosing the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your equipment and a couple of 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 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 unit. 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 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 unrestricted 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 debris from getting 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 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 air conditioner if a bad storm is approaching in Lexington. 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, James Heating & A/C, Inc offers help. Give us a call at 336-853-6070 or schedule an appointment online.