With cold weather coming in Macon, 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 engineered to resist bad weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good, because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is your own 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 accumulate and block your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your house.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Air Temperature Control heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine essential pieces. This often allows us to identify issues 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 ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and a few inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap condensation inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your system a cozy 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 impede air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your unit. The best type of fabric is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When to Use an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide 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 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 block leaves, nuts and other waste from falling 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 snowstorm is on the way. Snow and ice that collect inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a bad storm is imminent in Macon. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, 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 Temperature Control gives aid. Give us a call at 478-202-3170 or schedule an appointment online.