With cold weather coming in Manassas, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist inclement weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems, because they can trap moisture. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are ideal 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 build up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more power to cool your residence.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Woody's Sudden Service Inc heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine essential pieces. This often allows us to pinpoint problems 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 few ideas on choosing the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your unit and a couple of inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap condensation inside your equipment, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy home 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 block air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your system. The best type of cloth is one that allows airflow, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When to Use an Air Conditioner Cover
If you want to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to put it on.
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 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 approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a strong storm is imminent in Manassas. Hail can critically damage your system’s fins, impacting 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, Woody's Sudden Service Inc offers assistance. Give us a call at 703-278-2036 or schedule an appointment online.