With cold weather approaching in Norco and St. Charles Parish, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s created to resist severe weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good, because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or get moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two seasons that are ideal for using a cover for an extended 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. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder 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 professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine essential pieces. This often allows us to spot issues before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple tips on selecting the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your unit, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your AC an inviting area for rodents, 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 block air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your system. 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 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 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 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 heavy snow is approaching. Snow and ice that collect inside your AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is coming in Norco and St. Charles Parish. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, affecting 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, Mayeuxs AC & Heating provides assistance. Give us a call at (985) 764-2426 or schedule an appointment online.