With cold weather approaching in Des Moines, you may be questioning when you should cover your outdoor air conditioner. Of if you have to cover it at all.
Your AC unit is a sturdy piece of equipment. It’s engineered to take on severe weather, including intense temperatures and torrential precipitation.
Sometimes covers do more harm than good, because they can trap condensation. Extra wetness inside your system can cause internal parts to rust or turn moldy.
While using an air conditioner cover is a personal choice, there are two periods that are good to use a cover for a long 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. Diminished airflow means your air conditioning unit works longer and may use more electricity to cool your home.
Wanting other ways to make your air conditioner run efficiently? Regular AC maintenance from Heartland Heating & Cooling heating and cooling professionals can help. We’ll clean and lubricate your system, and examine essential pieces. This often allows us to identify problems before they begin.
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How to Choose an Air Conditioner Cover
If you come to the conclusion you want to cover your air conditioner, here are a few ideas on picking the ideal cover.
Avoid Full Covers
To keep air flowing, a protective air conditioner cover should only surround the top of your system and several inches on the side.
Total AC covers can trap moisture inside your equipment, potentially rusting metal components. It could also make your AC a cozy home 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 moisture to build up inside your air conditioner. The best type of material 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 use 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 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 falling 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 a blizzard is approaching. Snow and ice that accumulate inside your system can melt and refreeze, damaging condenser coils and lowering efficiency.
Although it’s not always possible to anticipate a hailstorm, you can temporarily cover your system if a bad storm is coming in Des Moines. Hail can seriously damage your system’s coils, 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, Heartland Heating & Cooling offers help. Give us a call at 515-344-3579 or schedule an appointment online.