With cold weather approaching in Oxford, 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 strong piece of equipment. It’s created to withstand bad weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good, because they can trap moisture. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal pieces 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 pile up and block your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your residence.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Franklin's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at essential parts. This often allows us to identify trouble before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several suggestions on choosing the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your unit and several inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your AC an inviting area 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 moisture 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 choose 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 debris 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 a snowstorm is on the way. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a bad storm is approaching in Oxford. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, affecting 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, Franklin's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc gives aid. Give us a call at 662-281-1231 or schedule an appointment online.