With cold weather on the horizon in Heflin, 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 engineered to withstand severe weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems, because they can trap water. Additional wetness inside your unit can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.
While installing 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 pile up and block your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your home.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Bain Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and inspect essential components. This often allows us to pinpoint issues before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few ideas on choosing the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your system and several inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner 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 block air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your unit. The best type of fabric is one that allows airflow, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When to Use an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide 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 unrestricted while keeping grass clippings and twigs 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 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 coming. Snow and ice that collect inside your AC 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 system if a bad storm is approaching in Heflin. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, 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, Bain Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc provides assistance. Give us a call at 256-270-1196 or schedule an appointment online.