With cold weather approaching in Tucker, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s created to resist bad weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap condensation. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two times of year that are great for using a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more power to cool your residence.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from ACS Heating and Air Conditioning heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine critical components. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.
Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several suggestions on choosing the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and a few inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your system an inviting home 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 moisture to build up inside your system. 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 You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner
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 smoothly 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 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 blizzard is on the way. Snow and ice that collect inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a severe storm is imminent in Tucker. Hail can severely 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, ACS Heating and Air Conditioning offers assistance. Give us a call at 770-450-1539 or schedule an appointment online.
