With cold weather coming in Seymour, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist severe weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Additional wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods that are good to use a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your residence.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Diedrick's Heating and Air Conditioning heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and inspect critical parts. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple tips on picking the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your unit and several inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, 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 impede air, which could cause water 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 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 freely 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 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 heavy snow is approaching. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is approaching in Seymour. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, 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, Diedrick's Heating and Air Conditioning provides assistance. Give us a call at 920-833-7967 or schedule an appointment online.