With cold weather on the horizon in Norco and surrounding parishes, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist severe weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your unit can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two periods that are ideal for using 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 accumulate and obstruct your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more electricity to cool your residence.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Mayeuxs AC & Heating heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect important parts. This often allows us to spot issues before they begin.
Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on choosing the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your equipment and a few inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your system a welcoming place for animals, 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 stop air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. 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 It’s Time to Cover your AC
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 unrestricted 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 halt leaves, nuts and other rubbish from getting 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 approaching. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is coming in Norco and surrounding parishes. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, impacting efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Make Sure Your AC Is Always Covered
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Mayeuxs AC & Heating offers aid. Give us a call at (985) 764-2426 or schedule an appointment online.
