With cold weather approaching in Delray Beach, you may be wondering 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 engineered to resist severe weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap moisture. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods that are good to use a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard waste 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 energy to cool your residence.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Kilbourne Heating & AC heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine critical pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint problems before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several tips on choosing the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting home 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 block air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your system. 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 You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner
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 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 halt leaves, nuts and other rubbish from falling 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 snowstorm is coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your AC can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is approaching in Delray Beach. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, 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, Kilbourne Heating & AC gives aid. Give us a call at 561-287-7071 or schedule an appointment online.