With cold weather approaching in Tomball, you may be thinking 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 inclement weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap condensation. Additional wetness inside your system can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two periods that are good to use a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and block your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your residence.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Premium Air Services LLC heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at critical components. This often allows us to pinpoint issues before they begin.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple tips on choosing the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your unit and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your AC 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 block air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your unit. 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 to Use an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide 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 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 halt leaves, nuts and other debris from getting 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 blizzard is approaching. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is coming in Tomball. Hail can critically damage your system’s fins, affecting efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Help Keep Your AC Protected
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Premium Air Services LLC gives help. Give us a call at 713-364-9957 or schedule an appointment online.