With cold weather on the horizon in Philadelphia, you may be questioning 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 inclement weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Additional 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 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 pile up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more energy to cool your home.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Retro HVAC Service & Installation heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at important components. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few suggestions on choosing the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your equipment and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap condensation inside your unit, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy home for animals, which could chew 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 moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of fabric is one that allows airflow, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner
If you decide 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 smoothly 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 stop leaves, nuts and other debris 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 a snowstorm is on the way. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a bad storm is coming in Philadelphia. Hail can critically damage your system’s fins, affecting 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, Retro HVAC Service & Installation gives assistance. Give us a call at 267-277-3851 or schedule an appointment online.