With cold weather approaching in Boynton Beach, you may be thinking 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 created to resist severe weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap moisture. Additional wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or turn moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods that are great for using a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your residence.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from A2Z Air Inc heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect important components. This often allows us to identify issues before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple ideas on selecting the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your AC an inviting area for animals, 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 impede air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of clot is one that’s breathable, 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 unrestricted 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 block leaves, nuts and other debris from falling 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 snowstorm is coming. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a strong storm is imminent in Boynton Beach. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, 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, A2Z Air Inc offers assistance. Give us a call at 561-270-6228 or schedule an appointment online.
