With cold weather approaching in Croydon, 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 severe weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or turn moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two times of year that are good to use 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 pile up and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your residence.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Indoor Comfort Systems HVAC heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at critical components. This often allows us to pinpoint problems before they begin.
How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple ideas on choosing the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your unit and several inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your system, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your system a welcoming place for rodents, 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 condensation to build up inside your unit. The best type of clot is one that allows airflow, 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 use 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 stop 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, breaking condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a strong storm is imminent in Croydon. Hail can critically damage your system’s coils, 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, Indoor Comfort Systems HVAC offers help. Give us a call at 215-741-5505 or schedule an appointment online.