With cold weather on the horizon in Bend, 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 inclement} weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap water. Additional wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods that are good to use 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. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more energy to cool your house.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Tri County Climate Control LLC heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine critical pieces. This often allows us to identify issues before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few ideas 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 several inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially corroding metal parts. It could also make your AC a welcoming 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 impede air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your unit. The best type of fabric 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 choose 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 freely 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 rubbish 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 heavy snow is coming. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a severe storm is approaching in Bend. Hail can critically damage your system’s exterior, 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, Tri County Climate Control LLC provides help. Give us a call at 541-238-2797 or schedule an appointment online.