With cold weather approaching in Siloam Springs, you may be wondering 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 designed to resist inclement weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two seasons that are great for using a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more electricity to cool your residence.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine 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 problems before they begin.
Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several tips on choosing the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your equipment and a few inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your AC a welcoming 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 air conditioner. 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 to Use an Air Conditioner Cover
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 twigs 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 getting into your system.
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 collect inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is approaching in Siloam Springs. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, impacting efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Make Sure Your AC Is Always Covered
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Siloam Springs Heating & AC offers aid. Give us a call at 479-308-8176 or schedule an appointment online.
