With cold weather on the horizon in Sandpoint, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s engineered to take on inclement weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good, because they can trap condensation. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or turn moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are good to use a cover for a long 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. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your home.
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 system, and examine important parts. This often allows us to pinpoint problems before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on picking the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your system, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your system 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 block air, which could cause water to build up inside your system. The best type of fabric is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When to Use an Air Conditioner Cover
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 smoothly 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 block 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 blizzard is coming. Snow and ice that collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a severe storm is imminent in Sandpoint. Hail can critically damage your system’s fins, 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, Age Heating & Cooling provides help. Give us a call at 208-578-4258 or schedule an appointment online.