With cold weather on the horizon in Omaha, 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 tough piece of equipment. It’s designed to resist bad weather, including extreme temperatures and heavy precipitation.
Sometimes covers cause more problems because they can trap condensation. Too much wetness inside your equipment can cause internal pieces to rust or get moldy.
While putting on 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 rubbish during those seasons—grass clippings, twigs and leaves—can pile up and obstruct your system’s airflow. Reduced airflow means your air conditioning unit works harder and may use more energy to cool your house.
Looking for other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Annual AC maintenance from The Frazier Company heating and cooling technicians can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your unit, and examine critical pieces. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.
How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few tips on choosing the right cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air moving, a protective air conditioner cover should only enclose the top of your system and a few inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap water inside your system, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your AC a cozy 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 block air, which could cause condensation to build up inside your system. The best type of material is one that’s breathable, like canvas or mesh.
Related: How AC Repair & Maintenance Can Actually Save You Money
When It’s Time to Cover your AC
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 unrestricted 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 halt leaves, nuts and other debris from dropping into your unit.
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 on the way. Snow and ice that collect inside your air conditioner can melt and refreeze, breaking condenser coils and reducing efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to predict a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a severe storm is coming in Omaha. Hail can critically damage your system’s coils, affecting 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, The Frazier Company provides help. Give us a call at 402-628-0206 or schedule an appointment online.
