With cold weather on the horizon in Rockford, 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 strong piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist severe weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are great for using 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. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your residence.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine critical components. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.
Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on picking 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.
Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming home for animals, 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 fabric 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 choose to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to use it.
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 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 waste from falling 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 on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a strong storm is approaching in Rockford. Hail can seriously 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, Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling provides help. Give us a call at (815) 914-6197 or schedule an appointment online.