With cold weather approaching in Laurel, you may be questioning 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 take on severe weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good, because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two periods that are great 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 pile up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more energy to cool your residence.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from H&C Heating and Cooling heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine important parts. This often allows us to pinpoint problems before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few suggestions on selecting the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your unit and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap water inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming area for animals, 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 block air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your system. 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 to Use an Air Conditioner Cover
If you choose to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to install 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 stop leaves, nuts and other debris 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 approaching. Snow and ice that collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is approaching in Laurel. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, 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, H&C Heating and Cooling provides assistance. Give us a call at 301-960-3247 or schedule an appointment online.