With cold weather coming in Naples, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist inclement weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues, because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or get moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two periods that are good to use 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 build up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more electricity to cool your house.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Speedy Air Conditioning heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect essential parts. This often allows us to pinpoint trouble before they begin.
Schedule service now
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 ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting area 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 water to build up inside your unit. The best type of cloth 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 want 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 block leaves, nuts and other rubbish from falling into your system.
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 AC 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 air conditioner if a bad storm is approaching in Naples. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, affecting 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, Speedy Air Conditioning provides assistance. Give us a call at 239-244-3439 or schedule an appointment online.