With cold weather on the horizon in Ballwin and St. Charles, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist inclement weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap water. Additional wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two seasons that are great for using 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 accumulate and block your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more power to cool your house.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Air Alliance Team heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect essential components. This often allows us to identify issues before they begin.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several suggestions on selecting the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your unit and several inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your system, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your system an inviting home for vermin, which could chew 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 air conditioner. 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 put it on.
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 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 stop leaves, nuts and other rubbish from dropping 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 coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is approaching in Ballwin and St. Charles. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, altering efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Help Keep Your AC Protected
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Air Alliance Team provides assistance. Give us a call at 636-206-4584 or schedule an appointment online.