With cold weather approaching in Lake Worth, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s created to resist severe} weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are good to use a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more electricity to cool your home.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Smyth Air Conditioning heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine important pieces. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several suggestions on choosing the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and several inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting place 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 stop air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your unit. The best type of clot 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 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 freely 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 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 heavy snow is approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is coming in Lake Worth. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, 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, Smyth Air Conditioning offers assistance. Give us a call at 561-533-6066 or schedule an appointment online.