With cold weather coming in Central Point, 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 strong piece of equipment. It’s designed to take on bad weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues, because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your unit can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are ideal for using a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more power to cool your home.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Titan Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect critical pieces. This often allows us to spot issues 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 several suggestions on choosing the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and a few inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming place for rodents, 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 condensation to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of material 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 use it.
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 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 a snowstorm is on the way. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is coming in Central Point. Hail can critically 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, Titan Heating & Air Conditioning gives help. Give us a call at 541-286-6617 or schedule an appointment online.