With cold weather coming in Tuscaloosa, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s designed to withstand severe weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues, because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two periods that are ideal 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 pile up and block your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more energy to cool your residence.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from KDM Service Corporation heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine critical components. This often allows us to pinpoint problems before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on selecting the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your AC a welcoming 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 stop air, which could cause water to build up inside your unit. The best type of material is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When to Use an Air Conditioner Cover
If you want to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to install 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 sticks 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 waste 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 snowstorm is on the way. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is imminent in Tuscaloosa. Hail can critically damage your system’s exterior, 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, KDM Service Corporation offers help. Give us a call at 205-208-8090 or schedule an appointment online.