With cold weather on the horizon in McHenry, 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 designed to resist severe weather, including excessive temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues, because they can trap condensation. Additional wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or become moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two periods that are good to use a cover for a lengthy period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard debris 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 longer and may use more power to cool your house.
Seeking other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Jett's Heating & Air Inc. heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine important parts. This often allows us to spot problems 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 a couple ideas on picking the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your unit and a couple of inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting place for vermin, which could eat through 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 moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. 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 freely 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 block leaves, nuts and other waste from getting into your system.
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 approaching. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a bad storm is approaching in McHenry. Hail can critically damage your system’s coils, 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, Jett's Heating & Air Inc. offers aid. Give us a call at 815-410-1128 or schedule an appointment online.