With cold weather approaching in Ames, 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s created to resist inclement weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential 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 your own choice, there are two times of year 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 lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your home.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Haselhoff Air Solutions heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at critical parts. This often allows us to spot issues before they begin.
How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several tips on selecting the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your equipment and a few inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your system an inviting place for animals, 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 condensation to build up inside your air conditioner. 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 You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner
If you decide 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 unrestricted 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 debris 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 heavy snow is coming. Snow and ice that collect inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is coming in Ames. Hail can seriously 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, Haselhoff Air Solutions gives aid. Give us a call at 515-450-8739 or schedule an appointment online.