With cold weather on the horizon in Payson, you may be questioning 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 take on severe weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues, because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or turn moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are good to use a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your home.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from North Mechanical Heating and Cooling heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine essential parts. This often allows us to identify trouble 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 a couple tips on picking the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your unit and a few inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially corroding metal components. It could also make your air conditioner 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 stop air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your unit. 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 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 sticks 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 waste from getting 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 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 approaching in Payson. 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, North Mechanical Heating and Cooling provides help. Give us a call at 928-263-8570 or schedule an appointment online.