With cold weather approaching in Albuquerque, 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 engineered to resist inclement} weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or become 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 an extended 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. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your residence.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Tru Air Systems LLC heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at important components. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several suggestions on selecting the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your unit and a few inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap condensation inside your unit, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your system a cozy 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 block air, which could cause water to build up inside your system. The best type of fabric 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 want 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 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 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 on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a bad storm is coming in Albuquerque. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, altering 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, Tru Air Systems LLC gives aid. Give us a call at 505-226-3525 or schedule an appointment online.