With cold weather coming in Sandpoint, 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 sturdy piece of equipment. It’s created to resist bad weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your unit can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are ideal for using a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and block your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more power to cool your house.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Age Heating & Cooling heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine critical pieces. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.
Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on selecting the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your unit and several inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your AC a cozy home for animals, 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 moisture to build up inside your system. 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 You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner
If you decide 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 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 halt 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 blizzard is approaching. Snow and ice that collect inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a bad storm is coming in Sandpoint. Hail can critically damage your system’s coils, altering efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Make Sure Your AC Is Always Covered
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Age Heating & Cooling provides aid. Give us a call at 208-603-2210 or schedule an appointment online.
