With cold weather on the horizon in Belton, you may be wondering 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 designed to resist inclement weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are good to use a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your home.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Myers Furnace Company heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine important pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint issues before they begin.
Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple tips on selecting the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your system an inviting place for vermin, 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 stop air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your unit. The best type of material 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 decide 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 smoothly 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 block leaves, nuts and other rubbish from getting 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 blizzard is coming. Snow and ice that collect inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming 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 imminent in Belton. Hail can seriously 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, Myers Furnace Company provides help. Give us a call at 816-249-1619 or schedule an appointment online.