With cold weather approaching in Wharton, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s engineered to withstand inclement weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems, because they can trap moisture. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is an individual 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 accumulate and obstruct your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more energy to cool your house.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Faust Air Conditioning and Heating heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and take a close look at essential components. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few tips on picking the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your unit and several inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting home for vermin, 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 stop air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your system. The best type of cloth is one that lets in air, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When to Use an Air Conditioner Cover
If you choose 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 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 block leaves, nuts and other rubbish from falling into your system.
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 coming. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a bad storm is imminent in Wharton. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, altering 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, Faust Air Conditioning and Heating offers help. Give us a call at 979-323-6130 or schedule an appointment online.