With cold weather coming in Wausau, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s created to resist bad weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap moisture. Additional wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two times of year 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 more and may use more electricity to cool your residence.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Gilray Heating and Cooling heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine essential pieces. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.
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 best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your system and a few inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your system a cozy home 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 block air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your unit. The best type of material is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When to Use an Air Conditioner Cover
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 freely while keeping grass clippings and sticks 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 dropping 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 snowstorm is coming. Snow and ice that collect inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is coming in Wausau. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, affecting 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, Gilray Heating and Cooling gives help. Give us a call at 715-301-0727 or schedule an appointment online.