With cold weather approaching in Newark, 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 sturdy piece of equipment. It’s created to resist inclement weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap condensation. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or turn moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are great for using 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 lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more electricity to cool your home.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Luikart Heating & Cooling heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine important pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint problems before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple tips on picking the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your AC a cozy home for vermin, 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 system. The best type of clot 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 want 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 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 halt leaves, nuts and other debris 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 blizzard is on the way. Snow and ice that collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is approaching in Newark. Hail can critically damage your system’s coils, altering 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, Luikart Heating & Cooling offers help. Give us a call at 740-344-5497 or schedule an appointment online.