With cold weather on the horizon in Thousand Palms, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s created to resist bad weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap moisture. Additional wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons 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 obstruct your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more power to cool your home.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Marios Air Conditioning heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine important components. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.
Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several tips on selecting the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your equipment and several inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your system a cozy 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 impede air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your unit. 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 choose 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 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 heavy snow is coming. Snow and ice that build up inside your system can melt and refreeze, breaking 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 approaching in Thousand Palms. Hail can critically damage your system’s exterior, affecting 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, Marios Air Conditioning gives help. Give us a call at 760-314-4766 or schedule an appointment online.