With cold weather approaching in New Castle, you may be thinking 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 designed to resist severe} weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Additional wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are good to use a cover for an extended 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. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more energy to cool your home.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Central Heating & Plumbing heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect important parts. This often allows us to pinpoint issues before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few suggestions on picking the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your equipment and several inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially corroding metal components. It could also make your system a welcoming home for rodents, 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 water to build up inside your unit. The best type of clot is one that lets in air, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When to Use an Air Conditioner Cover
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 unrestricted 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 block leaves, nuts and other debris from getting 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 blizzard is approaching. Snow and ice that collect inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a severe storm is coming in New Castle. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, 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, Central Heating & Plumbing provides assistance. Give us a call at 724-401-1843 or schedule an appointment online.