With cold weather on the horizon in Albuquerque, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s designed to take on inclement weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems, because they can trap moisture. Additional wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own 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 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 longer and may use more power to cool your home.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from I-Deal HVAC heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and take a close look at critical parts. This often allows us to identify trouble before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on selecting the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your system and several inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap water inside your equipment, potentially eating away at metal components. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming area 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 block air, which could cause water to build up inside your unit. The best type of cloth 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 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 branches 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 getting 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 on the way. 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 anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is coming in Albuquerque. Hail can critically damage your system’s coils, 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, I-Deal HVAC gives aid. Give us a call at 505-445-1250 or schedule an appointment online.