With cold weather approaching in Manassas, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist bad weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your unit can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is your own 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 build up and lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more electricity to cool your home.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Woody's Sudden Service heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine essential parts. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.
How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple tips on selecting the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your unit 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 air conditioner an inviting place for rodents, which could eat through 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 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 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 waste from dropping 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 heavy snow is approaching. Snow and ice that collect inside your AC can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a bad storm is imminent in Manassas. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, impacting 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, Woody's Sudden Service offers assistance. Give us a call at 703-278-2036 or schedule an appointment online.