With cold weather coming in Alice, 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist inclement} weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons 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 accumulate and lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your home.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Rescue Heating & Air heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine important parts. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several suggestions on selecting the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your unit and several inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your system, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your system a cozy home for rodents, which could sever 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 clot 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 want 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 smoothly 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 dropping 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 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 predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a bad storm is coming in Alice. Hail can critically damage your system’s exterior, 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, Rescue Heating & Air provides assistance. Give us a call at 361-265-4371 or schedule an appointment online.