With cold weather approaching in Corpus Christi, 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist bad weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are great for using a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and block your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more electricity to cool your residence.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Total Assurance AC & Heating heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect essential pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint 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 choosing the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your equipment and a few inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your system, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your system a welcoming 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 fabric is one that allows airflow, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When It’s Time to Cover your AC
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 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 debris 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 coming. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is approaching in Corpus Christi. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, impacting efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Help Keep Your AC Protected
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Total Assurance AC & Heating provides aid. Give us a call at 361-217-7080 or schedule an appointment online.
