With cold weather coming in Menomonie and western Wisconsin, 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 strong piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist severe weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two periods that are good to use a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard waste 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 longer and may use more power to cool your house.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Halverson Brothers Inc heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect important pieces. This often allows us to identify trouble before they begin.
Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several tips on selecting the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your unit and a few inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your system a welcoming place for vermin, which could chew 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 system. The best type of fabric is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When It’s Time to Cover your AC
If you choose to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to put it on.
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 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 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 a blizzard is coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is imminent in Menomonie and western Wisconsin. Hail can critically damage your system’s coils, 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, Halverson Brothers Inc gives assistance. Give us a call at 715-352-4052 or schedule an appointment online.
