With cold weather approaching in Wausau, you may be wondering 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 engineered to resist severe} weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap condensation. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are ideal for using 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. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your residence.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Gilray Heating and Cooling heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect important components. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several suggestions on picking the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your equipment and a few inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming home for vermin, 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 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 decide 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 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 halt leaves, nuts and other waste from dropping into your equipment.
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 system can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is approaching in Wausau. Hail can critically damage your system’s exterior, 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, Gilray Heating and Cooling provides assistance. Give us a call at 715-301-0727 or schedule an appointment online.