With cold weather on the horizon in Tucson, you may be thinking when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s engineered to resist severe} weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap water. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal components to rust or become moldy.
While putting on an air conditioner cover is an individual choice, there are two seasons that are ideal for using a cover for an extended period of time—fall and summer.
That’s because yard waste during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can accumulate and obstruct your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more power to cool your house.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Routine AC maintenance from Ambient Air heating and cooling experts can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your equipment, and examine essential components. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you determine you want to cover your air conditioner, here are several ideas on choosing the best cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and a couple of inches on the side.
Complete AC covers can trap moisture inside your system, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner a welcoming place 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 stop air, which could cause water to build up inside your system. The best type of fabric 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 put it on.
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 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 debris from dropping 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 on the way. Snow and ice that collect inside your AC can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a severe storm is imminent in Tucson. Hail can severely damage your system’s exterior, 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, Ambient Air offers assistance. Give us a call at 520-357-4912 or schedule an appointment online.