With cold weather on the horizon in Hasbrouck Heights, 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 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 condensation. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or turn moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is a personal 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 rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and lower your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your residence.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from ACE Solutions heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine essential pieces. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.
Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few tips on selecting the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and a few inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your AC an inviting place for animals, 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 system. The best type of clot is one that lets in air, 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 freely while keeping grass clippings and twigs 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 debris from dropping 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 on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your AC 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 strong storm is approaching in Hasbrouck Heights. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, 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, ACE Solutions provides help. Give us a call at 201-426-0650 or schedule an appointment online.