With cold weather approaching in Lake Worth, 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist severe weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or become moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods that are ideal for using a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard rubbish 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 more and may use more electricity to cool your house.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Smyth Air Conditioning heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and take a close look at essential parts. This often allows us to spot issues before they begin.
How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few ideas on picking the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your equipment and several inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your system a welcoming area for vermin, 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 water 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 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 block leaves, nuts and other rubbish from dropping into your system.
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 approaching. Snow and ice that collect inside your air conditioner 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 air conditioner if a strong storm is coming in Lake Worth. Hail can critically damage your system’s exterior, impacting 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, Smyth Air Conditioning provides assistance. Give us a call at 561-533-6066 or schedule an appointment online.