With cold weather on the horizon in Des Moines, you may be wondering when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s created to resist bad weather, including intense temperatures and relentless precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap moisture. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal components to rust or turn moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two times of year that are ideal for using 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 accumulate and block your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more power to cool your house.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine essential pieces. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.
Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on picking the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and a few inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap moisture inside your unit, potentially corroding metal components. It could also make your AC a welcoming area for animals, 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 impede air, which could cause water to build up inside your system. 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 You Should Cover Your Air Conditioner
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 halt leaves, nuts and other waste from dropping 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 a blizzard is approaching. Snow and ice that collect inside your AC can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your AC if a bad storm is approaching in Des Moines. Hail can seriously damage your system’s exterior, 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, Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling gives aid. Give us a call at 515-207-6569 or schedule an appointment online.