With cold weather coming in Wausau, 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 engineered to resist inclement weather, including extreme temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your system can cause internal components to rust or get moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two periods 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 harder and may use more electricity to cool your home.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Gilray Heating and Cooling heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and inspect important components. This often allows us to spot issues 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 selecting the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your equipment and a couple of inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap condensation inside your system, potentially eating away at metal parts. It could also make your AC 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 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 You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner
If you choose 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 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 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 blizzard is coming. Snow and ice that collect inside your AC 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 strong storm is approaching in Wausau. Hail can severely damage your system’s fins, altering efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Help Keep Your AC Protected
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Gilray Heating and Cooling provides help. Give us a call at 715-301-0727 or schedule an appointment online.