With cold weather on the horizon in Fort Lauderdale, 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 sturdy piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist severe} weather, including extreme temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers create more issues because they can trap moisture. Additional wetness inside your unit can cause internal components to rust or turn moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two seasons that are great 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 pile up and block your system’s airflow. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your home.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Solar Air Inc. heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and take a close look at essential components. This often allows us to spot problems before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple ideas on selecting the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your unit and several inches on the side.
Full AC covers can trap water inside your unit, potentially eating away at metal pieces. It could also make your AC a cozy place for rodents, which could chew 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 condensation to build up inside your unit. 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 want to use an air conditioner cover, here are the best times to install 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 debris from falling 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 on the way. Snow and ice that build up inside your system can melt and refreeze, harming condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to expect a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a severe storm is approaching in Fort Lauderdale. Hail can critically damage your system’s fins, impacting 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, Solar Air Inc. offers assistance. Give us a call at 954-320-7398 or schedule an appointment online.
