With cold weather approaching in Lansing, you may be thinking 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 engineered to resist inclement weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or become moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods that are ideal for using a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more energy to cool your house.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Everest Heating & Cooling heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and take a close look at critical pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.
How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple tips on picking the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your unit and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap water inside your unit, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your AC an inviting 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 stop air, which could cause water to build up inside your unit. The best type of material is one that lets in air, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner
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 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 waste from dropping into your equipment.
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 system can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a bad storm is imminent in Lansing. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, affecting efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Make Sure Your AC Is Always Covered
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Everest Heating & Cooling offers assistance. Give us a call at 913-845-9463 or schedule an appointment online.
