With cold weather approaching in Bishop, 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 resist severe weather, including excessive temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap moisture. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are ideal for using a cover for an extended 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. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your residence.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine essential parts. This often allows us to pinpoint issues 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 suggestions on selecting the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your unit and a few inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy 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 stop air, which could cause water to build up inside your unit. The best type of clot is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When It’s Time to Cover your AC
If you want 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 unrestricted 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 stop leaves, nuts and other debris from falling 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, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is coming in Bishop. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, altering 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, Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning provides help. Give us a call at 760-784-9034 or schedule an appointment online.