With cold weather coming in Holdrege, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need 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 condensation. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or get moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods that are good to use a cover for a long 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. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more energy to cool your home.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Durable Service heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine essential pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on choosing the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your unit and a couple of inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially corroding metal components. It could also make your AC an inviting place for rodents, 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 impede air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your unit. 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 to Use an Air Conditioner Cover
If you want 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 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 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 on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your system 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 AC if a severe storm is approaching in Holdrege. Hail can critically damage your system’s exterior, affecting 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, Durable Service gives assistance. Give us a call at 308-995-8177 or schedule an appointment online.
