With cold weather on the horizon in Moline, 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 designed to withstand bad weather, including excessive temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good, because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two periods that are good to use 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 build up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your house.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from J.L. Brady Company LLC heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at essential components. This often allows us to identify trouble before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on choosing the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your system and a few inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your system an inviting area 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 impede air, which could cause water to build up inside your unit. The best type of fabric 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 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 stop leaves, nuts and other rubbish from getting 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 heavy snow is coming. 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 air conditioner if a severe storm is imminent in Moline. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, 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, J.L. Brady Company LLC gives help. Give us a call at 309-517-7511 or schedule an appointment online.