With cold weather approaching in Houston, 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 strong piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist inclement weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap condensation. Additional wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are ideal 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 build up and obstruct 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? Regular AC maintenance from Air Current AC & Heat heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine critical components. This often allows us to spot issues before they begin.
How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on selecting the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your equipment and a few inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming place for rodents, 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 block 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 decide 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 unrestricted while keeping grass clippings and twigs 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 debris from falling 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 a snowstorm is on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is approaching in Houston. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, altering 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, Air Current AC & Heat gives assistance. Give us a call at 713-322-4318 or schedule an appointment online.