With cold weather on the horizon in Siloam Springs, you may be wondering 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 designed to resist severe weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues, because they can trap moisture. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or become moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two periods that are ideal for using 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 lower your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your home.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Siloam Springs Heating & AC heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect important components. This often allows us to pinpoint 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 suggestions on picking 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.
Total AC covers can trap water inside your unit, potentially rusting metal parts. It could also make your AC a cozy area 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 condensation to build up inside your unit. The best type of cloth is one that allows airflow, 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 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 halt 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 coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your AC can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is coming in Siloam Springs. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, 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, Siloam Springs Heating & AC provides help. Give us a call at 479-308-8176 or schedule an appointment online.