With cold weather on the horizon in Delray Beach, 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 sturdy piece of equipment. It’s created to resist inclement weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal components to rust or get moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two times of year that are ideal for using a cover for a lengthy 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 harder and may use more power to cool your residence.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Kilbourne Heating & AC heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at essential parts. This often allows us to spot issues before they begin.
Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple tips on selecting the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your system and a few inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your system a cozy area for vermin, which could eat through 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 condensation to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of material is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner
If you decide 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 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 block leaves, nuts and other debris from dropping 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 on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a bad storm is coming in Delray Beach. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, impacting efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Help Keep Your AC Protected
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Kilbourne Heating & AC gives help. Give us a call at 561-287-7071 or schedule an appointment online.