With cold weather on the horizon in Wilmington, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a tough piece of equipment. It’s created to resist bad weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap moisture. Additional wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or become moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are great for using a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and block your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more energy to cool your home.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Brandywine Heating & Air heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect important components. This often allows us to identify issues before they begin.
Find the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several suggestions on selecting the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your system and a few inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your system an inviting place for rodents, 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 fabric is one that lets in air, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner
If you choose 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 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 halt leaves, nuts and other waste 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 heavy snow is on the way. Snow and ice that collect inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a strong storm is imminent in Wilmington. Hail can critically damage your system’s coils, altering efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Make Sure Your AC Is Always Covered
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Brandywine Heating & Air offers aid. Give us a call at 302-261-3596 or schedule an appointment online.