With cold weather on the horizon in Saint Louis, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist severe weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two periods that are good to use a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your residence.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect important pieces. This often allows us to spot issues before they begin.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several tips on picking the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your unit and several inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap water inside your unit, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your system a welcoming home 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 block air, which could cause water 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 want 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 unrestricted 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 block leaves, nuts and other rubbish from getting 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 a snowstorm is approaching. Snow and ice that collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is coming in Saint Louis. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, impacting 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, Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating offers help. Give us a call at 314-262-4541 or schedule an appointment online.