With cold weather on the horizon in Muskogee, you may be wondering 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 designed to resist inclement weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap condensation. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are great for using a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your residence.
Looking for 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 unit, and examine critical components. This often allows us to identify issues before they begin.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few ideas on selecting the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your unit and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming place for animals, which could eat through 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 water to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of material 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 use 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 sticks 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 rubbish from falling 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 blizzard is on the way. Snow and ice that collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is imminent in Muskogee. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, 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, Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc. offers assistance. Give us a call at 918-682-8238 or schedule an appointment online.