With cold weather approaching in Rockford, 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 sturdy piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist severe} weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Additional wetness inside your unit can cause internal pieces to rust or turn moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two times of year that are great 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 build up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your house.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at important pieces. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple tips on choosing the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your equipment and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal components. It could also make your system a cozy area 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 stop air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your air conditioner. 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 use 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 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 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 snowstorm is coming. Snow and ice that build up inside your system can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a bad storm is imminent in Rockford. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, 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, Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling gives assistance. Give us a call at (815) 914-6197 or schedule an appointment online.