With cold weather approaching in West Columbia, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist bad weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal components to rust or become 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 a long period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more electricity to cool your home.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Tri City Fuel & Heating heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine critical components. This often allows us to identify trouble before they begin.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on picking the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal components. It could also make your system a cozy area for rodents, 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 block air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of clot is one that allows airflow, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner
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 smoothly 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 dropping 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 air conditioner 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 approaching in West Columbia. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, impacting 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, Tri City Fuel & Heating offers assistance. Give us a call at 803-265-4208 or schedule an appointment online.
