With cold weather approaching in Haines City, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s created to resist bad weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or turn moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are ideal for using 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 obstruct your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your home.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Air Commander's Heating & Air Conditioning Co. heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect important parts. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few tips on choosing the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your unit and a few inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting place for animals, which could eat through 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 condensation to build up inside your system. The best type of fabric is one that allows airflow, 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 unrestricted while keeping grass clippings and sticks out.
Related: How Do I Know if My Air Conditioner is Running Properly?
Cover Your Air Conditioner During Fall
A breathable canvas cover will halt leaves, nuts and other waste from dropping 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 accumulate inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is imminent in Haines City. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, impacting 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, Air Commander's Heating & Air Conditioning Co. gives assistance. Give us a call at 863-216-2923 or schedule an appointment online.