With cold weather coming in Houston, 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 strong piece of equipment. It’s created to resist severe weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues, because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are good to use a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and block your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more power to cool your house.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Marcos AC & Heating heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and take a close look at essential components. This often allows us to identify 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 tips on selecting the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your equipment and a couple of inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your AC an inviting area for animals, 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 impede air, which could cause water to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of material is one that lets in air, 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 stop leaves, nuts and other rubbish from getting into your unit.
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 coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a strong storm is coming in Houston. Hail can seriously 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, Marcos AC & Heating offers assistance. Give us a call at 713-469-3357 or schedule an appointment online.