With cold weather on the horizon in Tomball, you may be questioning 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 engineered to resist inclement} weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your unit can cause internal components to rust or get moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are good to use a cover for a lengthy 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. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more power to cool your home.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Premium Air Services LLC heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine critical components. This often allows us to identify trouble before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few ideas on choosing 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 few inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your system, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy home 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 material 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 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 smoothly 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 block leaves, nuts and other rubbish from getting 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 approaching. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is coming in Tomball. 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, Premium Air Services LLC provides assistance. Give us a call at 713-364-9957 or schedule an appointment online.