With cold weather approaching in Safford, you may be questioning 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 created to resist severe weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good, because they can trap condensation. Additional wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or get moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two periods 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 lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your home.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from B&D Air Conditioning heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine critical pieces. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple ideas on choosing the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your equipment and several inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming place for animals, 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 impede air, which could cause water to build up inside your unit. The best type of cloth 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 freely 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 stop leaves, nuts and other debris from falling 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 heavy snow is on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your system can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is approaching in Safford. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, 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, B&D Air Conditioning provides help. Give us a call at 928-432-6018 or schedule an appointment online.