With cold weather on the horizon in Northridge, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist bad weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Too much 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 seasons that are great for using a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your house.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and inspect important pieces. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.
How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple tips on selecting the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your system a welcoming home 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 block 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 You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner
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 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 snowstorm is on the way. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is imminent in Northridge. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, affecting 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, Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating provides help. Give us a call at (818) 727-9993 or schedule an appointment online.
