With cold weather on the horizon in Rapid City, you may be wondering 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 created to resist severe} weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap moisture. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal parts to rust or get moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two periods that are great 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 accumulate and obstruct your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works more and may use more power to cool your home.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Precision Mechanical heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect critical components. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on picking the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your system and several inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially corroding metal pieces. It could also make your AC a cozy place for vermin, 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 air conditioner. The best type of clot 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 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 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 stop 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 heavy snow is coming. Snow and ice that build up inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is approaching in Rapid City. Hail can seriously damage your system’s fins, 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, Precision Mechanical offers assistance. Give us a call at 605-206-3766 or schedule an appointment online.
