With cold weather approaching in Fredericksburg, you may be thinking 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 resist bad weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your unit can cause internal components to rust or turn moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is your own 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 waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your home.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Childress Heating & AC heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and inspect critical pieces. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple ideas on choosing the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and a few inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap condensation inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your system a cozy place for rodents, which could chew 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 material is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner
If you want to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to put it on.
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 falling into your equipment.
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 accumulate 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 system if a bad storm is approaching in Fredericksburg. Hail can critically 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, Childress Heating & AC offers help. Give us a call at 540-675-4306 or schedule an appointment online.