With cold weather approaching in West Valley City, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist bad weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or turn moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two times of year that are great 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 accumulate and block your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more electricity to cool your residence.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Select Comfort Systems heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine critical components. This often allows us to spot issues before they begin.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple tips on choosing the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your system and several inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy place for vermin, which could sever 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 air conditioner. 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 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 unrestricted 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 rubbish 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 heavy snow is coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a severe storm is coming in West Valley City. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, impacting 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, Select Comfort Systems gives help. Give us a call at 801-305-4777 or schedule an appointment online.
