With cold weather approaching in Brookfield, 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s created to resist severe} weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal components to rust or turn moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are great 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 pile up and block your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your house.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Central Air LLC heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at essential components. This often allows us to spot 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 selecting the ideal 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 condensation inside your unit, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy home 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 impede air, which could cause water to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of clot 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 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 halt leaves, nuts and other rubbish 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 blizzard is coming. Snow and ice that collect inside your air conditioner 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 air conditioner if a bad storm is approaching in Brookfield. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, impacting 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, Central Air LLC gives assistance. Give us a call at 203-357-5913 or schedule an appointment online.