With cold weather approaching in Cape Coral, you may be wondering 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 bad weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good, because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are good to use a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and block your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your house.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Comfort Zone, LLC heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine critical parts. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on picking the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your equipment and a few inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap water inside your unit, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your AC an inviting place 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 impede air, which could cause water to build up inside your unit. The best type of cloth is one that’s breathable, 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 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 waste 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 on the way. Snow and ice that collect inside your system 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 AC if a strong storm is coming in Cape Coral. Hail can seriously 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, Comfort Zone, LLC provides aid. Give us a call at 239-214-0411 or schedule an appointment online.