With cold weather approaching in Phoenix, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you need to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a strong piece of equipment. It’s created to resist inclement weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good because they can trap water. Extra wetness inside your unit can cause internal pieces to rust or become moldy.
While installing an air conditioner cover is your own choice, there are two periods 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 lower your system’s airflow. Decreased airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more power to cool your home.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from Integrity AC & Heating LLC heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and take a close look at essential pieces. This often allows us to identify trouble before they begin.
How to Find Your Air Conditioner Cover
If you decide you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a couple suggestions on picking the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air circulating, a protective air conditioner cover should only encompass the top of your system and a few inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap water inside your unit, potentially rusting metal pieces. It could also make your air conditioner an inviting place for vermin, 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 impede air, which could cause water to build up inside your system. The best type of material 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 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 smoothly while keeping grass clippings and twigs 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 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 build up inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and decreasing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your air conditioner if a bad storm is coming in Phoenix. Hail can critically damage your system’s exterior, altering efficiency.
Related: How Severe Weather Can Lead to AC Repair
We Can Make Sure Your AC Is Always Covered
Whether you have questions about heating and cooling or need air conditioning service, Integrity AC & Heating LLC offers help. Give us a call at 602-971-0567 or schedule an appointment online.
