With cold weather on the horizon in Mankato area, you may be wondering 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 created to resist inclement weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap water. Additional wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or get moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal 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 rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your residence.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Northern Comfort Inc heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect essential parts. This often allows us to pinpoint problems before they begin.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few suggestions on selecting the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy area for vermin, 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 block air, which could cause water to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of clot is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When It’s Time to Cover your AC
If you want to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to put it on.
Cover Your Air Conditioner During Summer
A lightweight mesh cover during the summer allows your air conditioner to run smoothly 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 stop leaves, nuts and other waste 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 blizzard is approaching. Snow and ice that build up 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 strong storm is coming in Mankato area. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, altering 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, Northern Comfort Inc provides aid. Give us a call at 507-387-6596 or schedule an appointment online.
