With cold weather approaching in Hudsonville, you may be thinking 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 created to resist bad} weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are ideal for using a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and block your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your residence.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at important parts. This often allows us to pinpoint issues before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several tips on choosing the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your unit and several inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting place for vermin, 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 impede air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your system. The best type of material 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 use it.
Cover Your Air Conditioner During Summer
A lightweight mesh cover during the summer allows your air conditioner to run freely 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 block leaves, nuts and other waste from dropping 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 on the way. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is imminent 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 gives aid. Give us a call at (616) 319-1436 or schedule an appointment online.
