With cold weather coming in Streamwood, 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s created to resist severe weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap condensation. Additional wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two seasons that are ideal for using a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard rubbish 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 energy to cool your home.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Pure Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine critical components. 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 several tips on picking the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your unit and several inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap water inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your AC a welcoming area for rodents, 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 moisture to build up inside your unit. The best type of material is one that lets in air, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When It’s Time to Cover your AC
If you choose 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 smoothly 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 debris from falling into your equipment.
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 blizzard is on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is imminent in Streamwood. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, affecting 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, Pure Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning offers aid. Give us a call at 630-313-2509 or schedule an appointment online.