With cold weather approaching in Fredericksburg, 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 strong piece of equipment. It’s created to resist severe} weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap moisture. Additional wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are good to use a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more energy to cool your residence.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Childress Heating & AC heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect important parts. This often allows us to identify problems 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 picking the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your equipment and several inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your AC an inviting 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 water to build up inside your system. The best type of fabric 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 install it.
Cover Your Air Conditioner During Summer
A lightweight mesh cover during the summer allows your air conditioner to run freely 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 stop leaves, nuts and other debris from getting 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 heavy snow is coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your air conditioner 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 AC if a bad storm is coming in Fredericksburg. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, 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 gives help. Give us a call at 540-675-4306 or schedule an appointment online.