With cold weather on the horizon in Naples, 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist severe} weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or turn moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods that are ideal for using a cover for a long period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can build up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your house.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Speedy Air Conditioning heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect 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 picking the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your unit and a couple of inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap water inside your equipment, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy place for animals, 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 block air, which could cause water to build up inside your system. The best type of material 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 put it on.
Cover Your Air Conditioner During Summer
A lightweight mesh cover during the summer allows your air conditioner to run smoothly 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 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 snowstorm is coming. Snow and ice that build up inside your system can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is approaching in Naples. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, 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, Speedy Air Conditioning gives aid. Give us a call at 239-244-3439 or schedule an appointment online.
