With cold weather approaching in Carson City, 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 designed to resist inclement weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are ideal for using a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and obstruct your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more power to cool your residence.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Anderson Heating & A/C heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine essential parts. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.
Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on selecting the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and several inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your AC a cozy home 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 impede air, which could cause water to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of clot is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When It’s Time to Cover your AC
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 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 dropping into your system.
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 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 system if a strong storm is coming in Carson City. Hail can critically damage your system’s fins, 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, Anderson Heating & A/C provides aid. Give us a call at 775-230-7628 or schedule an appointment online.