With cold weather coming in Mount Pleasant, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a tough 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. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two times of year that are good to use a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and block your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your house.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Olde Towne Heating & Air heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine important components. This often allows us to pinpoint problems before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few suggestions on picking the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your system an inviting place for vermin, 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 condensation to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of fabric 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 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 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 stop leaves, nuts and other rubbish from dropping 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 approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your system 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 air conditioner if a strong storm is coming in Mount Pleasant. Hail can seriously 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, Olde Towne Heating & Air provides assistance. Give us a call at 843-485-0967 or schedule an appointment online.