With cold weather coming in Goshen, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist bad weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or turn moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are good to use a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your home.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Just Right Heating and Cooling heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at critical components. This often allows us to pinpoint issues before they begin.
Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on selecting the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your equipment and a few inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal components. It could also make your AC 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 impede air, which could cause water to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of material is one that lets in air, 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 use 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 approaching. Snow and ice that collect inside your AC 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 coming in Goshen. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, altering efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Make Sure Your AC Is Always Covered
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Just Right Heating and Cooling provides aid. Give us a call at 513-392-4969 or schedule an appointment online.
