With cold weather on the horizon in Bartlesville, 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 sturdy piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist inclement weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are ideal for using a cover for a long 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 more and may use more power to cool your home.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Farris Heating & Air heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine important pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple ideas on choosing the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your equipment and several inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap water inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming place for rodents, 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 block air, which could cause water to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of fabric is one that lets in air, 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 use it.
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 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 halt leaves, nuts and other debris from falling 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 snowstorm is coming. Snow and ice that build up inside your system can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a severe storm is coming in Bartlesville. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, affecting 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, Farris Heating & Air offers assistance. Give us a call at 918-333-0376 or schedule an appointment online.