With cold weather coming in Chelan and Wenatchee, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s created to withstand inclement weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems, because they can trap moisture. 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 lengthy 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 harder and may use more electricity to cool your home.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Lakeside Heating & Air heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and take a close look at important pieces. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several suggestions on selecting the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your system and several inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap water inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your AC an inviting area for animals, 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 stop air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your unit. The best type of cloth 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 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 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 coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is imminent in Chelan and Wenatchee. Hail can critically 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, Lakeside Heating & Air offers aid. Give us a call at 509-284-4265 or schedule an appointment online.