With cold weather approaching in Woodbridge, you may be wondering 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 engineered to resist bad} weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal pieces to rust or turn moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two seasons 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 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? Annual AC maintenance from Fire & Ice HVAC heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and inspect critical parts. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on selecting the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your equipment and several inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming place for vermin, which could sever 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 water to build up inside your system. 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 smoothly while keeping grass clippings and twigs 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 rubbish from getting 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 collect inside your AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a strong storm is coming in Woodbridge. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, affecting 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, Fire & Ice HVAC offers aid. Give us a call at 703-595-4157 or schedule an appointment online.