Do I Need to Cover My Air Conditioner?

With cold weather on the horizon in Naples, you may be thinking 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 created to resist bad weather, including intense temperatures and heavy precipitation.

Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap condensation. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.

While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are ideal for using 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. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more power to cool your home.

Looking for 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 equipment, and examine essential parts. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover

If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few tips on choosing the right cover.

Avoid Full Covers

To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and several inches on the side.

Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your system a cozy place for animals, which could chew 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 system. The best type of fabric is one that allows airflow, like canvas or mesh.

Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money

When It’s Time to Cover your AC

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 halt leaves, nuts and other debris 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 accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and reducing efficiency.

Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a strong storm is approaching in Naples. 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, Speedy Air Conditioning offers aid. Give us a call at 239-244-3439 or schedule an appointment online.