With cold weather approaching in Tucson, 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 designed to withstand severe weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues, because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year that are good to use 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 pile up and block your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your home.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from A&M Heating & Cooling LLC heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at critical components. This often allows us to spot trouble before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several tips on picking the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, 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 water inside your system, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your AC an inviting area for vermin, 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 condensation to build up inside your system. The best type of material is one that allows airflow, 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 put it on.
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 block leaves, nuts and other debris from falling 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 a blizzard is coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a strong storm is approaching in Tucson. Hail can severely damage your system’s coils, 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, A&M Heating & Cooling LLC offers help. Give us a call at 520-200-1048 or schedule an appointment online.