With cold weather on the horizon in Port St. Lucie, 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s created to resist severe weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good, because they can trap moisture. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are ideal for using a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and block your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more energy to cool your residence.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Custom Air Systems Inc heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and take a close look at essential components. This often allows us to identify trouble before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several tips on picking the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your system and a few inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your AC a welcoming area for rodents, 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 block air, which could cause moisture to build up inside your system. The best type of material is one that lets in air, 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 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 halt leaves, nuts and other debris from dropping into your equipment.
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 on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a severe storm is imminent in Port St. Lucie. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, 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, Custom Air Systems Inc provides help. Give us a call at 772-247-2283 or schedule an appointment online.