With cold weather approaching in Sarasota, 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 designed to resist bad weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap condensation. Too much wetness inside your unit can cause internal components to rust or turn moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two seasons that are ideal for using a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris 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 longer and may use more electricity to cool your home.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Airtech Cooling & Heating heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine important parts. This often allows us to identify issues before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several tips on picking the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your unit and a few inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap condensation inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your system 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 stop air, which could cause water to build up inside your system. 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 decide 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 smoothly while keeping grass clippings and branches 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 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 accumulate inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is imminent in Sarasota. Hail can critically 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, Airtech Cooling & Heating provides help. Give us a call at 941-377-7956 or schedule an appointment online.