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 sturdy piece of equipment. It’s created to resist inclement weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap condensation. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal 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 rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more energy to cool your home.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Air Concepts of Middle Georgia heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect critical parts. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.
How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few suggestions on choosing the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your unit and several inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your AC a cozy home 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 system. The best type of material 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 choose 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 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 halt leaves, nuts and other debris from getting 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 system 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 air conditioner if a bad storm is coming in Milledgeville and Middle Georgia. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, 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, Air Concepts of Middle Georgia provides help. Give us a call at 478-200-5689 or schedule an appointment online.