With cold weather on the horizon in Milledgeville and Middle Georgia, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist inclement} weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two seasons that are great 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. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your house.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Air Concepts of Middle Georgia heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine important components. This often allows us to spot issues before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few tips on selecting the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap water inside your unit, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting place for rodents, 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 block air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of clot is one that lets in air, 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 use 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 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 stop leaves, nuts and other rubbish from dropping 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 snowstorm is on the way. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your AC can melt and refreeze, breaking 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 Milledgeville and Middle Georgia. Hail can critically damage your system’s coils, 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, Air Concepts of Middle Georgia offers help. Give us a call at 478-200-5689 or schedule an appointment online.