With cold weather approaching in Albuquerque, 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 sturdy piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist bad} weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods that are great for using a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and lower your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your house.
Looking for 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 examine essential parts. This often allows us to identify issues 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 choosing the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your unit and a couple of inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap water inside your unit, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy place for rodents, 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 stop air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your unit. The best type of clot 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 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 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 blizzard is approaching. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner 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 system if a bad storm is imminent in Albuquerque. Hail can severely 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 help. Give us a call at 505-226-3525 or schedule an appointment online.