With cold weather on the horizon in Odessa, 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s created to resist severe} weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are good to use a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your residence.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at important parts. This often allows us to identify trouble before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few suggestions on selecting the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and a few inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming 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 moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. 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 install it.
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 stop leaves, nuts and other rubbish 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 approaching. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is imminent in Odessa. Hail can critically damage your system’s fins, impacting 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, Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning gives help. Give us a call at 432-237-0168 or schedule an appointment online.
