With cold weather coming in Rock Hill, 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 sturdy piece of equipment. It’s designed to withstand inclement weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems, because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two times of year 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 pile up and block your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your residence.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from US Air Heating and Cooling heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine essential pieces. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few suggestions on picking the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your unit and several inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your unit, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy area for animals, 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 unit. The best type of fabric is one that lets in air, 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 put it on.
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 stop leaves, nuts and other rubbish from getting 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 approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is imminent in Rock Hill. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, altering 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, US Air Heating and Cooling provides help. Give us a call at 803-220-0761 or schedule an appointment online.