With cold weather approaching in Muskogee, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s created to resist bad} weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap moisture. Additional wetness inside your unit can cause internal pieces to rust or turn moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods that are ideal for using a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and block your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your residence.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc. heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect essential pieces. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few tips on choosing the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your system and several inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your system, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy 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 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 to Use an Air Conditioner Cover
If you want to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to install it.
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 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 heavy snow is on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a strong storm is coming in Muskogee. Hail can critically damage your system’s fins, 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, Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc. offers help. Give us a call at 918-682-8238 or schedule an appointment online.