With cold weather approaching in Tomball, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s designed to take on bad weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues, because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or turn moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods that are ideal for using 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 build up and block your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your home.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Premium Air Services LLC heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine important pieces. This often allows us to identify trouble 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 tips on choosing the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your equipment and a few inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your system, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy place 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 moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of material 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 install 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 dropping 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 blizzard is coming. Snow and ice that build up inside your system 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 strong storm is imminent in Tomball. Hail can critically damage your system’s coils, impacting 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, Premium Air Services LLC gives assistance. Give us a call at 713-364-9957 or schedule an appointment online.