With cold weather coming in Albuquerque, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you should even cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s created to resist bad weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two seasons 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 accumulate and lower your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more energy to cool your house.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from I-Deal HVAC heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and inspect essential pieces. This often allows us to identify trouble before they begin.
How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on choosing the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your system and a few inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap condensation inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner a cozy area 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 block air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of clot 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 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 unrestricted 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 block leaves, nuts and other rubbish from falling 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 blizzard is approaching. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system 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 imminent in Albuquerque. Hail can critically damage your system’s coils, 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, I-Deal HVAC offers help. Give us a call at 505-445-1250 or schedule an appointment online.