With cold weather approaching in Smyrna, 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 engineered to resist bad weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap condensation. Additional wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are great for using a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more power to cool your residence.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Fletcher Plumbing, Heating & AC heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect important parts. This often allows us to identify trouble before they begin.
Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on choosing the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your equipment and a couple of inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap water inside your equipment, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your AC a welcoming area for rodents, 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 material is one that allows airflow, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner
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 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 block leaves, nuts and other debris from falling 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 blizzard is approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is coming in Smyrna. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, altering 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, Fletcher Plumbing, Heating & AC offers aid. Give us a call at 302-653-0503 or schedule an appointment online.