With cold weather on the horizon in Mobile, you may be thinking 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 bad weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap condensation. Additional wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or get moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two seasons that are great for using 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 build up and block your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your house.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and take a close look at important pieces. This often allows us to identify issues before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several suggestions on picking the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your unit, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming home for rodents, 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 stop air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of material 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 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 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 debris from getting 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 blizzard is coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a bad storm is coming in Mobile. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, impacting efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Make Sure Your AC Is Always Covered
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc gives aid. Give us a call at 251-471-2674 or schedule an appointment online.