With cold weather coming in Hudsonville, you may be questioning 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 extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap moisture. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two periods that are good to use a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and block your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more power to cool your house.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine critical pieces. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few ideas on selecting the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your system and several inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming home for vermin, 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 condensation to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of fabric 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 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 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 waste 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 approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your system 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 air conditioner if a strong storm is coming in Hudsonville. Hail can critically damage your system’s coils, impacting 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, West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services provides assistance. Give us a call at (616) 319-1436 or schedule an appointment online.
