With cold weather coming in West Columbia, 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 strong piece of equipment. It’s created to resist bad weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap condensation. Additional wetness inside your system can cause internal pieces to rust or turn moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods that are good to use a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard rubbish 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 house.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Tri City Fuel & Heating heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and inspect critical pieces. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.
How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on picking the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your system and several inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap water inside your unit, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your AC a cozy place for vermin, which could eat through 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 moisture to build up inside your system. The best type of fabric is one that lets in air, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When It’s Time to Cover your AC
If you choose 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 freely 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 debris 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 approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a bad storm is coming in West Columbia. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, impacting 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, Tri City Fuel & Heating offers help. Give us a call at 803-265-4208 or schedule an appointment online.
