With cold weather coming in Franklin Lakes, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist inclement weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good, because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your unit can cause internal components to rust or turn moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are good to use a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and block your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your house.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Total Comfort heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at important components. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple tips on selecting the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your unit and several inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your system, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your AC a welcoming place for rodents, 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 block air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your unit. The best type of fabric is one that’s breathable, 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 install 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 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 block leaves, nuts and other waste 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 approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is approaching in Franklin Lakes. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, 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, Total Comfort provides assistance. Give us a call at 201-268-5663 or schedule an appointment online.